This amazing tea has been used for thousands of years in China and Japan, and it has many purported health benefits, some of which we’ll go over here. Green tea originates from a tea plant whose scientific name is Camillia sinensis. This plant is native to Asia, and black tea also comes from this plant.
What makes green tea different from black tea? It’s obviously not the plant. It’s how the plant parts are processed. Green tea undergoes the most minimal processing of any commercially sold tea, which means that more of the tea’s natural benefits and nutrients are preserved.
The green tea leaves are picked and then they’re “fired” which simply means that they are processed by steaming or heating. Then, the tea leaves are dried and readied to be sold, or for further processing. Other types of green tea are picked, dried by withering, then they’re rolled or broken, and then dried again. This oxidizes the tea, which removes much of the vital nutrient power that green tea is known for. Black tea is heavily oxidized, and that’s why it’s considered less healthy than green tea is. Most of the tea we drink in the US is black tea. These teas are characteristically brown in color, and green tea has a much more delicate color and flavor.
Many people think that green tea has the ability to cure diseases and make us healthier. A lot of recent studies seem to prove that the potent antioxidants within green tea can improve health and bolster the immune system. The American Cancer Society has extensively studied green tea as a possible cancer treatment and preventative. There are other studies that indicate that green tea may be able to ward off or slow the effects of Alzheimer’s disease. Still other people believe that green tea can aid in the boosting of metabolism and weight loss, and green tea may also be beneficial for those with arthritis.
Green tea is rich in catechin polyphenols, especially one called epigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG. This is a very powerful antioxidant that can inhibit the growth of cancer cells, without harming the surrounding tissues. It can also lower cholesterol levels, and prevent the formation of harmful blood clots. This is especially important when you think about the fact that thrombosis is the biggest cause of both heart attacks and strokes.
Green tea is available in many forms- the dried leaves, in conventional tea bags, as prepared drinks, and as nutritional supplements. If you are looking for information on the benefits of green tea, there are many reputable sources. Bookstores, libraries, and health food stores are founts of useful information. A doctor or an herbalist will be able to instruct you on the many benefits of green tea.
Original content author is:http://www.walax.org/
