What is in a cup of Tea?

Tea is processed from the tender shoots, typically the bud and the first two leaves of the tea plant – Camellia Sinensis (the botanical name of the plant of tea).

Traditionally the word “tea” is used to describe this plant Camellia Sinensis and products made using parts of the tea plant. However, on some occasions the word “tea” is used to describe other products made from other plants. This has led to confusions and ambiguity as some people think that these products are made from Camellia Sinensis and therefore has similar health benefits as true tea. The chemical composition of the beverages made from other plant species is quite different to that of Camellia Sinensis. Therefore, the effects of these beverages on human health will also be different.

Tea, without milk and sugar, does not contain significant amounts of nutrients. The calorific value of tea is almost zero, making it an ideal drink for the modern day calorie conscious consumer.
 
Tea brew contains a small level of vitamins such as thiamin (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin, biotin and inositol. Vitamin E is also present in tea. Although rich in potassium, the sodium content in tea is very low. This makes tea an ideal beverage for hypertensive individuals.

Tea also contains calcium, zinc & manganese. However, when milk is added it can provide a number of vitamins and minerals.

In addition to the nutrients, tea provides about 70% of our daily fluoride intake. Fluoride is needed to support bone mineralization and protect teeth against dental caries.

Caffeine and polyphenols, the major non-nutrient components in tea has pharmacological effects. Polyphenols are found in most plants, hence also in food derived from plant sources. Scientific investigations have found the polyphenols could act as anti-oxidants after consumption, thus decreasing the risk of many diseases. Tea contains high amounts of polyphenols. Dietary surveys done in Europe and USA have shown that tea is a major source of dietary polyphenols.

Caffeine, the well-known stimulant, acts on the central nerve system, increases alertness and reduces feelings of drowsiness and fatigue. The caffeine contains in a cup of tea is less than half the amount found in a cup of coffee. Up to 300mg: of caffeine (8- 10 cups of tea) is considered moderate, with no evidence of harmful effects in the vast majority of the adult population.