Tea is becoming almost as popular in the west as it has been for centuries in the east. Chinese white tea, green tea, black tea and oolong are all widely available everywhere. Just what is the difference among all these teas?
Tea Plant
All tea comes from the same plant, Camellia Senensis. The type of tea we end up with depends on a few factors. First, the time of picking. Second, the combination of buds and leaves. And third, the processing of the tea once it is picked. It is this last variable that determines the basic type of tea.
Black tea is fermented after picking. Green tea is not fermented at all, and oolong is somewhere in the middle. Chinese white tea is closer to green tea. It is considered slightly fermented. It is picked while there is still fine silvery white hair on the buds, which gives us the name.
Different types
High quality Chinese white tea is picked early in the spring, when the buds are just opening. Different types have different proportions of leaves to buds. The higher the quantity of buds, the more expensive and rare the tea will be.
Silver Needles, one of the most valuable of all white teas, is made entirely of buds. This is why it is so much more rare than the others. Great care must be taken when picking and storing this tea, so that the leaves and buds will not become bruised or oxidized.
Flavor
It has a delicate, sweet flavor, very different from the sharp grassy taste of green tea. Because it is unfermented, you get the full flavor of the tea bud, completely unaffected by processing.
Health Benefits
Studies have found white tea antioxidants to be very powerful. These powerful compounds help fight cancer and high blood pressure. They reduce the signs of aging, and aid in weight loss. They also help strengthen the immune system.
Of course, this rare healthful tea comes with a price! This tea will cost you more than its more processed cousins. However the flavor and health benefits still make it a cost effective treat.
It is making its mark outside of China, and researchers are just beginning to test its health benefits. New studies should tell us just how much we could benefit from daily consumption of this tea.
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Thursday, August 1, 2013
Can Tea Help Prevent Food Poison
There are dozens of variations of food poison, and none of them are pleasant. One of them is Bacillus cereus. While not usually life threatening, this common form of food poisoning can cause diarrhea, nausea, cramps and vomiting. Symptoms usually appear 8-16 hours after exposure to the bacteria, and can disrupt your life for a few days.
Bacillus cereus is usually caused by improper cooking. The problem can be exacerbated by improper refrigeration, which just allows the spores to further grow. Cooked rice that is improperly refrigerated is one of the most common carriers of bacillus cereus.
However, researchers are learning that there may be ways to protect our bodies from the ravages of such bacteria. It appears that tea's catechins may protect our bodies from bacteria like bacillus cereus. Tea has far more anti-microbial properties than previously realized.
One particular study reported by the UK Tea Council evaluated the anti-microbial activity of seven green tea catechins and four black tea theaflavins, both important anti-oxidants. They also evaluated actual infusions of 36 commercial black, white, green and oolong teas, as well as herbal teas.
These anti-oxidants and infusions were evaluated to determine their anti-microbial activity against bacillus cereus. This study concluded that all eleven of the anti-oxidants evaluated contained anti-microbial properties.*
In fact, most of the compounds were more active than medicinal antibiotics such as tetracycline or vancomycin at comparable concentrations. The study also concluded that the brewed infusions of true tea that contained these catechins and theaflavins also had anti-microbial properties as well, particularly freshly brewed infusions. However, herbal brews did not have anti-microbial properties.
So, just what does this mean to our real life? Well, it means that drinking tea can protect your body against certain harmful bacteria like bacillus cereus. If we consume tea on a regular basis, we may be able to ward off these harmful bacteria before they wreak havoc on our bodies.
The presence of the anti-oxidants in tea may be enough to keep us from getting sick from these bacteria, or at least be sufficient to lessen their effects.
This is likely just the tip of the iceberg. We already know that green tea prevents many serious illnesses, such as heart disease, Alzheimer's disease and some forms of cancer.
And, if we've determined that it can kill bacteria such as bacillus cereus, then there's certainly potential that it can act as an anti-biotic against other harmful bacteria, as well.
Certainly it has been determined from this along with many other studies that tea is an important part of living a healthy life. In Japan, the medical community recognizes green tea as a known cancer preventative, and it's likely that medical communities in other countries will soon follow suit.
This information, combined with the other studies that have shown green tea to be effective in preventing heart disease should be enough to convince us that drinking a few cups of green tea each day is a simple way to protect our health.
But, why is does it seem that so many of the positive findings are associated with green tea, and not black tea too? Well, it stems from the way the tea is processed. While the study noted here on the anti-microbial activity of tea didn't find a difference between the two, in most health studies green tea beats black tea every time.
Black tea is fermented during processing; green and white teas are not. The fermentation process changes the anti-oxidants in the tea from their natural, original state, into a slightly different compound.
While black tea is still healthy, and still contains important anti-oxidants, the more natural anti-oxidants in green and white tea are far more powerful.
The research done so far has mostly been performed on green tea because it is much more widely consumed. However, it is likely that researchers would find that white tea is just as healthful, since its anti-oxidants are preserved in their natural state, just like those in green tea.
Green tea first gained notice as a health preserver because of the much lower incidence of heart disease and cancer in Asian countries, where green tea is a staple. Scientists decided to back up this anecdotal evidence with research and the findings have been astonishing.
In addition to evidence suggesting that green tea protects our health, there has also been evidence to suggest that green tea may even be effective as an alternative cancer treatment. Some studies have shown that green tea slows the growth of certain cancers.
Other studies have shown that administering green tea along with chemotherapy makes the chemotherapy more effective than when it is administered alone.
So, it appears that green tea may be one of the most promising natural health products we can consume. As time goes on, and more studies are conducted on human subjects, we'll learn more definitive information about this wonder beverage.
It's amazing to think that something many of us have been drinking all our lives just for the taste could hold so much power to protect our health.
Black Tea Offers a Sip of Good Heath with Great Taste
Black tea is the most liked tea these days. Everyone enjoys this tea as it is good for health and also offers a nice taste. Tea is one of the most liked and consumed beverage of all time. This is a very popular drink around the world. There are many countries where it is the main drink. People of every cast and religion drink tea. It is consumed a lot in hilly areas and cold regions to beat the cold. In India, almost every household consumes tea and this is the offered and preferred drink for guests as well. In various countries, where there are not enough sources of tea they get the tea imported from other countries. People add various flavour to the tea at home itself to enhance its taste. Tea is consumed in different flavours such as, with ginger, masala, chocolate, cardamom, lemon and many more. Ginger tea is famous for its medical qualities. Many people drink ginger tea to combat cold and headache. Tea plantation needs a suitable soil and environment for better growth. Tea leaves are detached from the plant and dried for a certain period. Then the required processing is done for packing so the flavour of tea remains fresh. For many people, early morning tea works as a refresher. Due to the popularity of tea, tea manufacturers are coming up with innovative flavours that offer good health with a good taste. Various tea flavours include, ice tea, lemon tea, green tea, herbal tea and black tea. In the recent time, people are getting very conscious about their health, figure and diet. Everyone wants the proper diet to maintain their health and this tea helps in maintaining good health. Black tea contains goodness of health with a unique flavour. This tea is made of special tea leaves that contain elements, which help in keeping up the health. This tea can be consumed without milk also unlike other teas that needs to be consumed with milk. A nice flavour and aroma can be sensed in this tea that too without any milk. Like other tea the flavour of this tea can also be enhanced if teamed up with ginger, lemon, cardamom etc. There are a number of black tea supplier in the market who offer a great combination of taste and aroma in a tea. After various studies, it is found that this tea contains anti-oxidants that fight against several diseases. It also helps in reducing the risk of cancer by by reducing the growth of the cells that are responsible for cancer. Author is a black tea supplier and supplies this tea to various outlets. This tea is getting popular among youth for its health maintaining elements.
Black Tea Working As A Health Beneficiary Drinks For Every Age Group
Health problems are increasing rapidly in today's world. Every now and then we can find a case of severe illness. From the smallest problem of cold and flu to the major problem of cancer and heart attack, every illness is found in men as well as woman. Regardless of age, health hazardous illness is being found in every age group of people. Some health issues occur due to improper nutrition, some occur due to unhealthy eating habits. Many doctors also suggest everyone to maintain proper and health eating styles. The usage of different types of pesticides and insecticides for pest free growth of raw food is also making way to unwanted heath problems. In many cases, manufacturers or retails use artificial elements to give certain shine to the food items. This method increases their sales but results in decreased natural nutrients in the food.
The sudden raise in health issues have made many people conscious about their health. Many people are choosing organic food items over usual food items. Organic foods are cultivated with the methods that keep natural nutrients intact thereby resulting in improved health. Some people prefer fruits and natural juices to stay fit. People are also practicing yoga and opting for various exercises. This is helping them up to a great extent to stay fit. But due the unhealthy food obtained in markets is making all the health practices go in vain. Some of the manufacturers are coming up with numerous options of health foods that contain no oil at all. Some health drinks are also being introduced in the markets to help people in maintaining their health regime. Various fruit juices and health beneficiary drinks are preferred over usual soft drinks. Low cholesterol foods are also being provided in the markets. Tea is making one of the best health drinks these days.
The tea known as black tea is getting popular among various other health teas. In increasing number of black tea suppliers has made it possible to supply this tea in every region. People in large amounts are making it a habit to drink at least a cup of this tea daily. It is helping them fight against various common diseases such as, high BP, diabetes, and joint pains. This tea has various ingredients that help keep away such problems. The fermentation process used in this tea is also beneficial for the people suffering from serious health diseases, such as cancer and heart attack.
Buy Green Tea or Buy Oolong Tea only at Exclusive Stores
Tea is a very popular beverage next to water. This is not just any beverage that satisfies your tastes after every meal. It is a healthy kind of beverage, which has many health benefits. Depending on the kind of tea, its benefits range from reduction of carbohydrates or cholesterol intake or serves as an anti-oxidant. Most teas are sold in the market for cheap prices while other exotic teas such as green tea and Oolong tea are sold at considerable, more premium prices than their counterpart, the more popular teas like black tea and tea bags.
Generally, green teas, just like any other teas, are bitter in taste. Green tea originally came from China. While black tea was more popular in the West and in the UK, green tea is now gaining popularity in these countries as well. It is different from black tea as it is made purely from Camellia Sinensis and has gone through a minimal oxidizing process. Over a long period of time from its emerging popularity, green tea has been known to have many health benefits. It has been a subject of much clinical and medical research. So far, green tea drinkers are suspected to have a lower risk of heart disease and any type of cancer than non drinkers.
Another popular premium tea is Oolong tea. The oxidation of Oolong tea is between that of black tea and green tea. Basically, the taste of Oolong tea is more like the green tea but does not carry the grassy taste of real green tea. Nevertheless, it lacks the strong aroma of black teas. The appearance of Oolong tea is exquisitely made. Some come in rolled leaves while others look like curly leaves.
Both green tea and Oolong tea appear to be more beneficial for the body than coffee. Both serve as anti-oxidants and may help promote weight loss.
There are various ways that you can buy these premium Chinese teas. You can buy green tea and Oolong tea through online and offline stores. Usually you can buy Oolong tea and green teas in Chinese stores or exclusive stores for teas. However, if you don't have much time to go to specialized stores, you can use the Internet to search for these teas.
On the Internet, you can buy green tea or buy Oolong tea through The Exotic Teapot. The site offers a wide variety of green and Oolong teas in attractive packages. Aside from the packaging, it's the convenience benefit of buying green tea and Oolong tea right from your home, office, or wherever you can have Internet access in England or the UK.
When you want to buy green tea, you simply have to find the specific page of what green teas are available at The Exotic Teapot. As there are many varieties of green tea, there are also many choices for you to buy green tea. Likewise, buy Oolong tea from the site and you will find that there are also different varieties packaged individually or in a gift set. For instance, the main choice when you buy Oolong tea from The Exotic Teapot is the premium Tieguanyin variety. You will find more product details of this product on the site as well.
Whether you want to buy Oolong tea or green tea, you will not find it hard to buy through The Exotic Tea Pot because they have securing ordering, a return policy with a 100% guarantee and fast shipping in UK. All it takes is for you to see for yourself and experience their products and services.
Green Tea Caffeine Content
Green tea is a well-accepted health drink. It is had for its health features e.g. desirable effects in cardiovascular diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes and for reducting weight. People suffering from caffeine intolerance also prefer drinking green tea to coffee because of a belief that green tea is devoid of caffeine.
Caffeine is much renowned to stimulate central nervous system, respiratory system and muscles of heart. Hence innumerable people have coffee to stay away from exhaustion. It has also diuretic properties. However excessive use of caffeine can cause irritability, irregular heartbeat, sleeplessness, headache, loss of appetite, diarrhea, dizziness and vomiting. It is also prohibited during pregnancy. Due to such ill effects of caffeine, persons select green tea than coffee.
But they may be surprised to know that green tea also comprises of caffeine. But thing is its quantity is very less than other beverages like coffee, soft drinks, black tea, etc. Plus you can also avail decaffeinated green tea. Plus you can bring down the level of caffeine in green tea by yourself. Therefore it will be unwise to stay away from green tea only on the grounds it comprises of caffeine forgetting the tremendous health advantages it gives.
Most importantly, you need to understand that caffeine content in green tea alters significantly depending upon a lot of issues such as the part of the plant used in its making, its method of making, brewing, and so on. Remember that newer tea leaves consist of higher level of caffeine. The topmost grade of green tea is supposed to be extracted from the terminal bud and the two leave flanking it. This is called tea flush. This is the sweetest and most scrumptious part of the green tea plant, but also it possesses the highest amount of caffeine.
Some particular types of green tea such as Japanese Bancha, Houjicha and Genmaicha are least in caffeine quantity.
You can even get decaffeinated tea. However while buying it, you have to keeep well in mind to note the procedure using which it has been decaffeinated. There are two processes viz. by adding ethyl acetate and by mixing carbon dioxide among which second is the more advisable one. Ethyl acetate process is generally marketed as natural method. However the reality is it is a chemical and is utilized elsewhere to clean circuit boards and on the whole it is a cleaning agent of stains of paints for example nail polish and other such paints. On the contrary carbon dioxide procedure is the safer one and more eco-friendly. It even preserves ninety five percent of the beneficial polyphenols in green tea and so provides safest and most useful green tea for you.
Even you can decaffeinate your green tea by yourself by steeping it in high temperature water for 45 seconds and then getting rid of this very first solvent. In this method nearly eighty % of caffeine is juiced out and minimum of it sustains. The fragrance of green tea is also not removed much as a result of this process.
Also keep in mind to have green tea at hot temperature. The theanine as well as catechins contained in green tea weaken the activity of caffeine. At the time of brewing the green tea these 2 combine with caffeine and make it less efficient and this can happen in the hot water. If you let the tea become cool the catechins break down and caffeine is released once more.
Therefore you can notice that although green tea consists of caffeine its quantity is less and that too can be minimized. So the health importance of green tea is not diminished because of its caffeine content.
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Wonders Of Jasmine Green Tea
Tea, nature's 'wonder drug' has many benefits to health. It helps promote good health including protective and revitalizing benefits and longer life. Other benefits include anti-cancer properties, increases metabolic rate, anti-daibetes effect, boosts mental alertness, boost immune system, lower chances of cognitive impairment, lowers stress hormone level and anti depressant properties. .
Tea is available in various flavours including chocolate, mint, lemon, spiced, vanilla, green, fruit etc. One of the most popular variety of flavoured is Jasmine.
Jasmine tea is a sweet-smelling variety of tea flavored with jasmine flowers. In addition to providing a rich floral scent, the flowers add a slight note to the tea which is enjoyable. As Jasmine is used to scent and flavor every variety of tea i-e white, black, green and oolong, therefore, regardless of a person's preference in tea, there is a Jasmine tea for everyone.
Origination
Jasmine tea has been originated during the period 960-1279. It is normally based on green tea or white tea. The resulting flavour of jasmine tea is a restrained sweet flavor and it is usually considered as less harsh tea for drinking. Jasmine teas are aromatic with jasmine blossoms, whose thin downy leaves impart into a light green colour of teas with a delicate and sweet flavor.
Tea fragranced with the aroma of jasmine flowers is a specialty of China since the Sung Dynasty ruled i-e over 800 years ago. The jasmine plant was brought into China from Persia in olden times before the third century and was used in teas for fragrance around the fifth century.
Health Benefits
Jasmine tea is a healthy drink. It not only titillates the taste buds but studies reveal that the leaves from this flower have disease preventive properties. It has been noted that it may protect from disease ranging from cancer to lowering elevated cholesterol levels.
Some of the health benefits of Jasmine Tea are detailed below:
1. Cancer Treatment and Prevention
Several studies have demonstrated the ability of jasmine to slow down growth of cancer cells and espically its chemo protective effect for breast tumors, prostate cancer etc. Many anti-cancer drugs are now using Jasmonate, a component from the jasmine plant that protects against injury. This new natural drug has been derived from jasmine plant that can inhibit the action of an enzyme named hexokinase that allows cancer cells to grow.
2. Anxiety Relief
Studies show that the smell of jasmine teas had a calming effect. The smell of jasmine teas drops heart rates and help to be more calm and relaxed. A cup of jasmine tea offers noteworthy advantages over traditional anti-anxiety medications and drugs.
3. Lower Cholesterol
A study showed that green tea catechins extracted from jasmine green teas lowered cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Jasmine green teas could hold health benefits for those who usually take fatty diet.
4. Anti-bacterial Properties
In a study, it was shown that jasmine has ability to reduce growth of certain bacteria that can cause food borne illness i-e Salmonella and Listeria.
Availability
Jasmine tea is mostly available in Chinese markets. In all other parts of world, it is often available from big grocery stores or specialty tea shops.
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