Black tea is made from the leaves of a plant called Camellia Sinensis just like green tea and white tea so it shares plenty of health benefits with other tea types. However, black tea is considered to be unique and is known to be especially beneficial for certain health purposes.
Over 90 percent of all tea sold in the West is black tea. It’s also known as red tea in the East. You must be wondering why? Well, here are a few reasons for it.
No.1 – Cardiovascular Health
● Black tea is abundant in antioxidants. These antioxidants have the ability to lower the risk of heart diseases.
● This happens by preventing the oxidation of LDL cholesterol and preventing damage in the artery walls as well as the bloodstream.
● They can also reduce coronary vasodilation and reduce clots thereby reducing the risk of any cardiovascular diseases.
No.2 – Prevention Of Cancer
● Black tea contains certain naturally occurring compounds called polyphenols which help prevent the formation of potential cancer causing agents called carcinogens.
● It’s true with only certain types of cancer like ovarian cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer etc.
● Also, black tea inhibits the formation and growth of malignant tumors thereby preventing cancer.
No.3 – Helps Build Immunity
● Black tea contains tannins. Tannins are present in all naturally occurring substances and organic matter like leaves and wood. They give the beverage it’s astringency or bitter taste.
● However, the tannins in black tea not only give it it’s characteristic taste, they also help fight viruses such as influenza, dysentery, hepatitis etc.
No.4 – Digestive Benefits
● The tannin in tea in general offers digestive benefits but in the case of black tea, even more so.
● They have the ability to soothe gastric and intestinal illnesses, aid in digestion and decrease intestinal activity also making them useful for those with diarrhea.
No.5 – Skin Health
● Black tea contains certain vitamins like B2, C and E along with other minerals like magnesium, potassium and zinc as well as polyphenols and tannins that nourish the skin.
● It also contains other chemical components that can kill oral viruses, which helps prevent skin infections. It could also reduce wrinkles and signs of premature aging.
No.6 – Hair Health
● Black tea contains high levels of antioxidants and caffeine that may benefit hair health. The caffeine decreases a hormone (DHT) that causes hair loss while antioxidants promote healthy hair growth.
● Note that excess caffeine also stunts your hair growth, so be careful not to overdo it. Black tea could add shine, luster and darkness to your hair if you incorporate it regularly.
No.7 – Nervous System Functions
● The caffeine in black tea contains an amino acid called L-theanine which has been shown to balance the effects of caffeine uniquely, helping you concentrate better on tasks and stay focused but also relaxed.
● This happens by promoting blood flow in the brain unlike drinks with higher levels of caffeine like coffee and energy drinks that overstimulate the heart and have other unpleasant side effects.
No.8 – Increases Energy Levels
● The levels of caffeine in tea are moderate. They not only stimulate metabolism, but also can increase alertness and overall brain functions.
● The energy levels that the caffeine in tea provides are smooth and continuous. This is because it is mitigated by a naturally occurring chemical called L-theophylline.
● While caffeine mainly stimulates the muscles, L-theophylline targets the heart, kidneys and respiratory system making the overall impact on the body evenly distributed and balanced.
Apart from these, there are more health benefits that black tea provides. If you never drank black tea before, you have some pretty good reasons to start now!
