Good health with Tea

Tea is a wholly natural product, grown and processed in clean and hygienic environments, in a manner acceptable to modern ecological requirements and concerns.

It is a pleasant source of water, a minimum volume of which is needed for health and well being. No calories would be consumed if tea is taken without sugar, milk or other additives. The calorific value of tea brew itself is almost zero.

The amount of carbohydrates, fat and proteins in tea are not large compared to that in other foods. On the other hands, tea brew contains significant amounts of non-nutricient components, which do not contribute to energy production and body growth but have other important biological functions.

The major non-nutrient component in tea is polyphenols. The polyphenols, particularly those called flavonoids, which include catechins, are strong anti-oxidants and are mainly responsible for health giving beneficial effects of tea. The polyphenols are found in most plants but tea is unique in having huge amount of polyphenols. Black tea and Green tea are comparable in the quantum of flavonoids per serving and are even better than red wine in this respect.

Scientific research indicates that regular tea drinking reduces the risk of heart diseases, strokes and certain forms of cancer, helps maintaining proper body fluid balance and relieves fatigue.

Tea is a good source of fluoride too, a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel. Tea contains less than half the amount of caffeine found in coffee. It has been revealed that the presence of caffeine in tea does not produce any unhealthy result due to its combination with polyphenols.

The recommended number of cups of tea to drink each day is between 5 - 10. Over three billion kilograms of tea are consumed every year. Tea brings about a sense of relaxtion, which expels stress. It can also act as an antibacterial agent.

Tea relives eye fatigue. Just apply the tea infusion around tired eyes.

The versatile qualities of tea have perhaps been best described by the great 19 th century British Prime Minister, Sir William Gladstone:

" If you are cold, tea will warm you. If you are heated, it will cool you. If you are depressed, it will cheer you. If you are excited, it will calm you."

A cup of strong tea is good to start the day and a bright, light refreshing cup after lunch and Earl grey or another fragrant tea to end the day.