Tea Health Benefits – by Tea Type

Research has shown that various tea types have differential effects on promoting health.

• White Tea
• Green Tea
• Oolong Tea
• Black Tea
• Puerh
• Yerba Mate
• Rooibos
• Mint
• Chamomile
• Vitality Herbal
• Cold Buster Herbal
• Loose Leaf Tea

White Tea

All teas come from the same plant, the Camellia Sinensis. The difference is that black tea is dried and then oxidized, fermenting the tea leaves, whereas white tea skips this oxidizing step entirely. This short processing helps keep more of the medicinal elements in the tea intact. White tea is the closest thing to a fresh tea leaf that most of us in the Western hemisphere will ever see. And those of us who drink it know that white tea leaves even look fresh and healthy!

Every year scientists are finding more and more health benefits in white tea. Up to 20% of the white tea leaf is made up of catechins. Catechins have very potent anti–oxidant and anti–microbial actions. Dr. Yukihiko Hara stated in an interview in the Tea and Coffee Trade Journal, "The anti–flu virus actions of tea catechins are just phenomenal." In addition, catechins have been proven to lower cholesterol and inhibit the increase of blood pressure.

New studies conducted at Pace University have indicated that White Tea has the ability to retard the growth of bacteria that causes infections, pneumonia and dental caries. “Our research shows White Tea can actually destroy in vitro the organisms that cause disease. Study after study, white tea extract proves that it has many healing properties. This is not an old wives’ tale, it’s a fact" says Dr. Milton Schiffenbauer, a microbiologist and Professor in Biology at Pace University’s Dyson College of Arts and Sciences and primary author of the research.

White tea helps keep your skin acne–free. The antioxidants in white and green tea may have an effect on acne, and in some cases have been shown to work as well as a 4% solution of the much more harsh benzoyl peroxide. White tea is widely used in beauty and cosmetic products, with the promise that its high antioxidant content will keep your skin looking young.

White tea can create a calmer but more alert state of mind. Studies have shown that the amino acid L–theanine found in the tea plant alters the attention networks in the brain and can have demonstrable effects on the brain waves. More simply, tea can help you relax and concentrate more fully on tasks. Buddhist monks drank white tea to keep them from falling asleep during meditation.

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Green Tea

Green tea and black tea come from the same plant, the Camellia Sinensis. The difference is that black tea is dried and then oxidized, fermenting the tea leaves, whereas green tea skips this oxidizing step. This shorter processing helps keep more of the medicinal elements in the tea intact.

By some accounts, the history of green tea goes back as far as 2737 BC. In the 15th century, Chinese seamen were given green tea to prevent scurvy, which would take the lives of many of their European counterparts more than 100 years later.

Every year scientists are finding more and more health benefits in green tea.15 to 20% of dried green tea is made up of catechins. Catechins have very potent anti microbial actions. Dr. Yukihiko Hara stated in an interview in the Tea and Coffee Trade Journal, "The anti–flu virus actions of those tea catechins are just phenomenal." In addition, catechins have been proven to lower cholesterol and inhibit the increase of blood pressure. In the dental field, green tea has been shown to suppress the process by which cariogenic bacteria create glucan, thus suppressing the formation of plaque on teeth and preventing cavities.

Green tea’s catechins have also been found to help inhibit cancer growth. The National Cancer Institute states, "[catechins] scavenge oxidants before cell injuries occur, reduce the incidence and size of chemically induced tumors, and inhibit the growth of tumor cells.”

Since its discovery in China thousands of years ago, green tea has been curing countless people with a vast amount of ailments. Let our many varieties from the Tea Spot do the same for you and your family.

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Oolong Tea

All teas come from the same plant, the Camellia Sinensis. Oolong or semi–green teas result when the fermentation process is stopped just as the leaves start to turn brown. Oolong tea combines the health benefits of both green and black tea. It contains the full range of polyphenol antioxidants: catechins, thearubigin and theaflavin.

Oolong, or semi–fermented oolong tea contains more polyphenols than black and fewer than the less oxidized green and white teas. Some polyphenols, like flavonoids, have antioxidant properties.

Chinese herbalists believe that oolong tea is highly effective in improving symptoms that are associated with weak kidney and spleen energy.

Oolong tea is often recommended for its weight–loss properties. The polyphenols in oolong tea help to control obesity by activating the enzyme responsible for dissolving triglyceride (fatty deposits) and enhancing the function of fat metabolism.

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Black Tea

Green tea has received so much press about its health benefits for the simple reason that most research regarding the health benefits of tea has been done in Japan, where the only tea grown and consumed is green tea! In reality, black tea contains many of the same antioxidants and flavonoids as green tea. Tea health researchers commonly respond, when asked which is the healthiest tea to drink, that the healthiest tea is the one you like best, as that is the one you are likely to drink the most of. Green tea is loaded with the compound epigallocatechin gallate (EGCg), a powerful anti–oxidant. Since the fermentation process used to make black tea converts EGCg into other compounds, researchers assumed black tea had less health benefits than green tea. However, recent studies indicate the compounds contained in black tea – theaflavins and thearubigens – do more than contribute to its dark color and distinctive flavor. They do provide many of the health benefits originally attributed solely to green tea. Additionally, Researchers at Boston University recently found that black tea appears to repair blood–vessel damage in people who have had coronary artery disease. Another health benefit unique to black teas: Black Tea Helps Prevent Cavities. New studies, funded by the Tea Trade Health Research Association, found several doses of black tea every day not only reduced plaque build–up but also helped control bacteria.

Click to view our selection of loose black teas.

Puerh

Hailed for its medicinal properties, Puerh is commonly used in China to detoxify the body and aid digestion. Puerh tea has strong digestive and warming properties. Puerh cleanses the bloodstream of fat and toxins from meat and fatty foods. This is also why Puerh has such a wide appeal amongst many Asian food cultures. Tests conducted in China report that Puerh can lower the alcohol level in the bloodstream. Recent research suggests that consuming 5–8 cups of Puerh Tea each day can reduce cholesterol and plaque of the arteries.

Tests have also shown that Puerh can lower the alcohol level in the bloodstream, which is why it’s traditionally considered the best cure for a hangover in China, where it is consumed as a "detox tea".

Puerh tea is regarded as a slimming and safe dieter’s tea. In France, Puerh Tuo Cha (mini tea bricks) are widely popular and consumed by many women as a "beauty and dieting tea".

Click to view our selection of aged pu’erh teas.

Yerba Mate

Traditionally this herb was used as a whole body tonic and believed to energize and rejuvenate; enhance endurance, support mental clarity and promote well–being. Since it helps break down fat (lypolytic action), dieters find yerba very helpful. This treasure trove of health benefits includes vitamins A, C, E and the B complex. It is also known to be high in antioxidants and contains amino acids and enzymes, plus significant amounts of magnesium, calcium, iron, sodium, potassium, manganese, silicon, phosphates, zinc, niacin, sulfur, and chlorophyll.

Yerba mate is widely considered to be a good natural stimulant that may be healthier than coffee, due to a unique combination of alkaloids and relatively low caffeine content, similar to that of Green tea. Strictly speaking, yerba mate contains mateine, not caffeine, 25 – 50 mg per serving, depending on how it is brewed. There is no unique chemical structure for mateine and yerba mate contains caffeine, just like tea and coffee.

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Rooibos

Rooibos is a naturally 100% caffeine free herb found in South Africa. It contains essential minerals such as iron, zinc, calcium, potassium, and fluoride, as well as Vitamin C and alpha–hydroxy acid. Its mineral content helps maintain healthy skin, teeth and bones as well as assisting in metabolic processes. Rooibos also contains 37 natural antioxidants, which are thought to help prevent cancer. It is also an adaptogen, known to help reduce and increase resistance to stress. Its antispasmodic properties can help relieve stomach and digestive discomfort. Its antihistamine properties are known to help relieve, and even prevent, allergy symptoms. Rooibos is also known to help increase iron absorption.

Recent medical studies have shown rooibos might help reduce the risk and effects of skin cancer. It was observed to significantly decrease the incidence, delay timing of onset, and decrease the size of tumors resulting from ultraviolet exposure on rats, when applied topically.

With all of its unique health benefits, and while sharing many of the same antioxidants found in green tea, Rooibos is emerging as a delicious caffeine–free alternative to traditional teas.

Mint

Peppermint: It aids in digestion, relieves nausea, even reduces flatulence, but there are a few benefits most don’t know about. Peppermint teas can help to alleviate the pain of headaches associated with menstrual cramps. It can also help those with breathing troubles, like asthma. The smell of peppermint opens blocked breathing passages. It works as a great way to wake up in the morning – even though it is completely caffeine free.

Click to view more details about our naturally caffeine–free loose peppermint tea.

Click to view our signature blend of roasted Japanese green tea and peppermint, Green Roasted Mint, tested to be extrememely high in antioxidants and low in caffeine.

Spearmint: Dried spearmint leaves make a minty, hydrating drink that is satisfying both hot and cold. Spearmint tea has a wonderful and pleasant aroma that is unique and unforgettable. Spearmint takes its name from its crinkled leaves, which resemble the shape of the blade of a spear. It has oblong, serrated leaves, and slender spikes of flowers.

Once known only as a cousin to Peppermint, Spearmint tea now stands alone for its superior taste and smell. While Peppermint is similar in many respects, Spearmint tea is more mild and less stimulating. Savored for its refreshingly light aroma, and natural, caffeine–free taste.

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Chamomile

Chamomile comes from a flowering plant in the daisy family. The active ingredient in chamomile essential oil is bisabolol, which has a number of anti-irritant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial properties. Historically, it has been used both topically and ingested orally, such as in teas & tinctures. Both fresh and dried chamomile flowers have been made info teas for centuries and are thought to help alleviate a number of common ailments, such as:

• Insomnia and other sleep disorders
• Anxiety and Panic Attacks
• Muscle twitches
• Wounds, burns, and scrapes
• Skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, chickenpox, and diaper rash
• Stomach problems such as menstrual cramps, stomach flu, and ulcers
• Naturally Caffeine Free
• Calorie-free, Fat-free, Gluten-free

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Vitality Herbal

A fascinating blend of herbs that restores energy, provides stamina, and increases focus and vitality. Naturally caffeine–free. Contains peppermint, spearmint, catnip, Siberian ginseng, and gotu kola. Long touted as a "restorer of vitality," taken regularly, ginseng increases energy while releasing stress. Used also as an "aphrodisiac," ginseng’s unique properties work wonders for some. The real trick is to use ginseng consistently over a period of time. Doing so really increases energy. Specific health benefits of the components follow:

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Peppermint (Mentha piperita): Peppermint aids in digestion, relieves nausea, even reduces flatulence. Peppermint teas can help to alleviate headaches associated with menstrual cramps, and can also help improve respiration.

Siberian Ginseng: Famed as an energy tonic in China, Siberian ginseng only gained recognition in the West in the 1950s, when a Russian scientist (I. I. Brekhman) reported its notable stress–resistance powers. Healthy men and women taking the herb were found to better endure physical strain, resist disease, and perform tests of mental sharpness. Today, Westerners are perhaps most familiar with the plant’s botanical cousin Panax ginseng, but Siberian ginseng’s apparent ability to fight fatigue and alleviate myriad ailments has earned it an enthusiastic following. Many people use it the way traditional Chinese healers do – to reinforce the body’s vital energy (or chi). Others take it to enhance memory and ward off colds and flu. Siberian ginseng contains remarkable compounds that favorably affect the adrenal glands, the small glands that rest atop the kidneys and secrete stress–fighting hormones. Taking the herb is believed to boost the body’s capacity to handle physical stresses ranging from heat exposure to extreme exertion. Resistance to disease increases as well as one’s overall energy level. Specifically, Siberian ginseng may help to:

• Prevent stress–related illnesses. Several studies have shown that Siberian ginseng can increase a person’s resistance to physical stresses. In a series of landmark Russian studies in the 1960s, 2,100 healthy adults (19 to 72 years old) given Siberian ginseng were shown to better handle stressful conditions. Specifically, they experienced an increased ability to perform physical labor, withstand motion sickness, and work with speed and precision despite being surrounded by noise. They could also proofread documents more accurately and more readily adapt to such physical stresses such as heat, high altitudes, and low–oxygen environments. Other research indicates that taking Siberian ginseng can heighten mental alertness and improve concentration.
• Relieve chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia by bolstering the adrenal glands.
• Combat fatigue and restores energy for people with constant exhaustion and those recovering from an illness or weary from a heavy work schedule. For otherwise healthy individuals, even athletes, the story may differ, however. In one study, 20 highly trained distance runners given Siberian ginseng failed to outperform similarly conditioned runners given a placebo when both groups raced against each other on treadmills. Not only did the Siberian ginseng–taking runners run no faster, they didn’t run for longer either.
• Increase male and female fertility and reduce male impotence. By supporting healthy uterine function, Siberian ginseng may be useful in preventing female infertility. Males may experience an increased sperm count by rotating use with Panax ginseng. Animal studies indicate that the herb can even boost testosterone levels and thus help reverse certain cases of male impotence.
• Relieve menstrual conditions and menopausal symptoms. Siberian ginseng may positively affect hormone levels and tone the large uterine muscle.
• Treat Alzheimer’s disease. Siberian ginseng may increase mental alertness, particularly in the early stages of this progressive disorder. The herb’s ability to boost the transmission of nerve impulses may also enhance memory.
• Increase resistance to colds and flu with immune–enhancing properties. A Russian study of 13,000 auto workers who took Siberian ginseng one winter showed that participants developed 40% fewer respiratory infections than they had in previous winters.

Catnip (Nepeta cataria): Catnip grows in North America and Europe. The leaves and flowers are utilized as medicine. While catnip is famous for inducing a delirious, stimulated state in felines, in humans it can help alleviate coughs and insomnia. Throughout history, this herb has been used in humans to produce a sedative effect. Catnip tea was a common beverage in England before the introduction of tea from China. Several other conditions (including cancer, toothache, corns, and hives) have been treated with catnip by traditional herbalists. The essential oil in catnip contains a monoterpene similar to the valepotriates found in valerian, a widely renowned sedative. Animal studies (except those involving cats) have found it to increase sleep. The monoterpenes also help with coughs.

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica): Gotu kola is a slender, creeping plant that grows commonly in swampy areas of India, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, South Africa, and much of the tropics. It is commonly used for prevention of mental fatigue and enhanced concentration and memory. It is a balancing tonic that both increases energy and relaxes the body, stimulates the central nervous system, aids in circulation, and is a mild diuretic. It is used to treat a number of medical conditions in traditional Eastern health care and Ayervedic medicine including rheumatism, blood diseases, mental disorders, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, sore throat, and hepatitis. In Ayurveda Gotu kola is one of the chief herbs for revitalizing the nerves and brain cells. It is said to fortify the immune system, both cleansing and nourishing it, and to strengthen the adrenals.

There are three main chemical constituents in Gotu kola. The first is asiaticoside, which is a triterpene glycoside and classified as an antibiotic. It aids in wound healing and has been used in the treatment of leprosy and tuberculosis in the Far East. The second constituent is a pair of chemicals, brahmoside and brahminoside, which are saponin glycosides. These are diuretic in nature and have a slightly sedative action in large doses. Finally, there is madecassoside, a glycoside that is a strong anti–inflammatory agent. The plant is also a source of Vitamin K, magnesium, calcium and sodium.

Gotu kola has been referred to as "food for the brain". This oriental herb has demonstrated mild tranquilizing, anti–anxiety and anti–stress effects, as well as improving mental functions such as concentration and memory. It has a calming effect on the body and is chiefly used to support the central nervous system. These beneficial qualities make Gotu kola an excellent herb for children with A.D.D. because it has a stimulating effect on the brain that increases one’s ability to focus while having a soothing and relaxing effect on an overactive nervous system.

It has been used as a tonic for purification of blood and for promoting healthy skin. It has also been used to aid in restful sleep, treat skin inflammations, as a treatment for high blood pressure and as a mild diuretic. One study demonstrated that Gotu kola destroyed cultured tumor cells in a laboratory setting (in vitro).

The herbs calming properties make it well suited for overcoming insomnia and making one calm for yoga and meditative practices. It is commonly used to rebuild energy reserves improve memory and treat fatigue, both mental and physical.

Gotu Kola has been found to have significant results in healing of skin, other connective tissues, lymph tissue, blood vessels, and mucous membranes. Researchers have found that Gotu kola contains several glycosides that exhibit wound healing and anti–inflammatory activities and that asiaticosides stimulate the formation of lipids and proteins necessary for healthy skin.

Gotu kola affects various stages of tissue development, including keratinization (the process of replacing skin after sores or ulcers), the synthesis of collagen (the first step in tissue repair), the stimulation of hair and nail growth, and support for the repair of cartilage. Gotu kola has been effectively used in the treatment of second and third degree burns. It has been shown to decrease healing time and reduce scar tissue formation.

Recent studies show that Gotu kola also has a positive effect on the circulatory system. It seems to improve the flow of blood throughout the body by strengthening the veins and capillaries. Gotu kola has been shown to be particularly useful for people who are inactive or confined to bed due to illness.

The herb has been used successfully to treat phlebitis (inflammation of the veins), varicose veins, as well as leg cramps, swelling of the legs, and "heaviness" or tingling in the legs. In modern health care it has been used for venous insufficiency, localized inflammation and infection, and post–surgery recovery.

Gota Kola Treatment May Reduce Cellulite. In clinical trials, the gota kola herb was found to strengthen connective tissue, increase circulation in the legs and improve cellulite. It assists in the elimination of excess fluids by improving the function of the lymph system. However, although Gota kola helps reduce cellulite under certain conditions, it is not a cure for cellulite, and diet and exercise are still important.

Click to view more details about our naturally caffeine–free Vitality Herbal Tea.

Cold Buster Herbal

Cold Buster was developed as a great–tasting boost intended to help maintain a higher level of vitality and restore immunity when you’re feeling under the weather. It is a 100% naturally caffeine–free herbal blend that contains herbs commonly used to help stimulate the immune system and increase good cholesterol, protect the liver from the harmful effects of drugs, alcohol, and other toxic substances (Ginseng, Black Pepper), warm the body, stimulate vital function and increase blood circulation (Ginger and Cinnamon), protect against tooth decay (Rooibos), purify the blood (Field Eryngo), lower blood pressure and relieve hypertension (Mistletoe) and aid in digestion (Cardamom, Clove and Bean Peels). Rosehip Peels are very rich in vitamin C and are commonly used to treat chronic coughs and high blood pressure. Specific health benefits for some of the components follow:

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Rooibos: High content of antioxidants, minerals, fluoride, and vitamin C. Helps to protect against tooth decay. Aids in alleviating many allergies, especially eczema and hay fever

Orange Peel: Help the body eliminate waste products, and, being rich in vitamin C, boosts immune system

Cinnamon: Increases vitality, warms and stimulates many vital functions of the body, counteracts congestion, is antirheumatic, stops diarrhea, improves digestion, relieves abdominal spasms, and aids the peripheral circulation of the blood

Ginseng: Cleanses the liver from the harmful effects of drugs, alcohol, and other toxic substances. Stimulates the immune system and promotes good cholesterol. Helps reduce the risk of blood clots and balances blood sugar levels.

Bean Peels: Aid in digestion

Ginger: The root is warming to the body, is slightly antiseptic and promotes internal secretions. It contains zingibain, a special kind of proteolytic enzyme that has the ability to chemically break down protein.

Mistletoe: Lowers blood pressure and slows the heart rate, benefits hypertension.

Perforated St. John’s Wort: Eases symptoms of depression such as insomnia, angina, mood swings, fatigue, and tremors. Aids in the treatment of premenstrual syndrome and menopausal symptoms.

Lemon Grass: High in vitamin C and aromatherapeutic essential oils.

Field Eryngo: Purifies the blood and combats the inflammations that affect the urinary tracts or those of the circulatory apparatus.

Cardamom: Its digestive properties have made it popular as an after–dinner infusion, and it acts as a breath freshener when chewed. Used in India’s traditional medicine for asthma, bronchitis, kidney stones, anorexia, debility and weakened Vata. Has a historical reputation as an aphrodisiac.

Clove: Traditional Chinese physicians have long used the herb to treat indigestion, diarrhea, hernia, and ringworm, as well as athlete’s foot and other fungal infections.

Black Pepper: Supports and stimulates metabolism and digestive function. Warms the center.

Lemon Peels: Anti–inflammatory properties. Helps the body cleanse itself by promoting perspiration and acting as a natural diuretic.

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Loose Leaf Tea

Tea made from loose leaves has more antioxidants than tea bags, which tend to have lower–quality, powdered leaves. And Freshly brewed teas have more polyphenol antioxidants those brewed 72 hours ago. All research and studies done so far are based on brewed drinking of Loose Tea (green, white, black, puerh and oolong tea). Loose teas use the whole leaf while the teabags usually use the cut, ground or "dust" leaf. This may cause regular teabags to produce fewer Antioxidants and more Caffeine than loose teas. Another important factor which you may wish to consider is bleach residue, a chemical, which remains on teabags.

Our hand–picked loose leaf teas can be re–infused several times. The most important thing to remember when steeping tea is to make only what you can serve into your cup or serving pot at one time. Steep your tea and then pour ALL of the liquor off the leaves into your cup or serving pot. This practice allows you to then re–infuse your leaf with more hot water over and over again. Brewing tea in this way is also the trick to keeping your green teas from turning bitter or your black teas from becoming burnt tasting. Most high quality loose leaf teas can be re–infused 5 or 6 times, with some puerh or oolongs giving up to 10–12 infusions from a single serving. This makes the actual cost per serving of premium loose leaf teas very inexpensive.

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