When it comes to the leaf, black tea is identical to white tea and matcha green tea; the only difference is how it is processed. Black tea is oxidised more than other types of herbal tea, giving it a darker colour and more assertive flavour. It comes in a variety of blends with distinct flavour notes depending on the tumbling plantations and terroir in which it is grown.
Whether you’re a regular black tea drinker or haven’t had a cup in a long time, you’ll be eager to take a tea break after reading our list of all the amazing ways black tea can benefit your body, mind, and soul.
High in Antioxidants
Black tea, like other types of tea made from the Camellia sinensis plant, is high in antioxidants. Antioxidants reduce free radicals in the body and promote cellular health and help prevent degenerative diseases and cancer. Being extremely rich in antioxidants, good quality plain black tea provides the same health benefits as antioxidant-rich foods.
Cardiovascular Boost
Black tea may improve heart health in a variety of ways. It contains flavonoids, a unique compound responsible for many of black tea’s significant health benefits. Flavonoids can help prevent plaque buildup in the body’s arteries, reducing heart stress. As a result, black tea consumption has been linked to a lower risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Improved Digestion
Regular consumption of plain black tea may aid digestion and relieve stomach discomfort. After a heavy meal or when you’re suffering from a stomachache, a cup of tea can help provide gut comfort and relief.
Reduces Blood Pressure
Black tea can also reduce blood pressure. Regularly drinking black tea has been linked to a small reduction in blood pressure, making it an excellent addition to a healthy lifestyle. Lowering blood pressure improves heart health and lowers the risk of illness and disease. Black tea may also help with stress reduction and relaxation, which can all have a positive impact on blood pressure.
Increase in Energy and Alertness
Black tea is an energising tea that can help increase alertness and focus, whether you’re looking for a good cup of tea to get you going in the morning or boost throughout the day. The caffeine content in black tea is moderate-about half that of a cup of coffee. When you’re feeling tired, this gives you a boost of energy without the jitters or other adverse side effects of too much caffeine. When combined with the l-theanine found in tea, caffeine in black tea helps to promote focus and alertness.
Health Skin Promotion
Plain black tea contains a variety of skin-friendly vitamins and minerals, such as zinc, magnesium, and potassium, all of which can help to protect and rejuvenate the skin. Tea consumption is also a great way to stay hydrated, which can help skin look healthy, fresh, and nourished in addition to these beneficial compounds. Black tea can also help you fight wrinkles and other signs of ageing by acting as a detoxifier and using antioxidants to fight free radicals and cell damage.
Contains Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Black tea, like other types of tea, has anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation occurs when the body attempts to heal itself – for example, when a small cut turns red or when a sore throat swells up. While inflammation is a protective mechanism used by the body to fight injury and illness, it can be harmful if it occurs for an extended period. Black tea can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which can help to relieve muscle pain and chronic pain, as well as protect against inflammation-related diseases like arthritis, autoimmune disorders, and IBS.
Good for Oral Health
Tea may be good for oral health, unlike other caffeinated beverages that may contain a lot of sugar. In addition, black tea contains compounds that attack harmful bacteria in the mouth, helping to prevent plaque buildup. It can also reduce the production of acid, which can wear down teeth and lead to cavities. While black tea isn’t a replacement for good oral hygiene practices like brushing and flossing, it can help you maintain a healthy mouth!
Eases Symptoms of Cold
If you’re feeling under the weather, a cup of black tea can help to alleviate cold symptoms or even prevent colds altogether. Black tea contains catechins, which have antiviral properties and may help to prevent common illnesses like colds and flu. While research into the anti-viral properties of black tea is still ongoing, research suggests that a cup of tea can be a simple and effective way to stay healthy during the cold and flu season.
Soothes Headaches
Due to its low caffeine content, black tea is also used to treat minor headaches. It constricts blood vessels that are often the source of headaches, which can help to alleviate symptoms and pain. The caffeine in black tea can also help pain relievers like aspirin and ibuprofen work more effectively.
Side Effects
For the most part, drinking black tea is a completely safe and enjoyable experience. Because caffeine can add up quickly, it’s best to keep your daily intake below 4 or 5 cups if at all possible. If you are sensitive to caffeine, you may experience the following side effects: jitteriness, anxiety, trouble sleeping, headache, urinating more, higher blood pressure, nausea, and tremors.
Remember that these side effects aren’t common in casual tea drinkers, and they’re usually linked to excess caffeine. If you want to keep your tea as natural and healthy as possible, avoid adding extra spoons of sugar and instead look for more natural ways to sweeten its taste. There are many different types of black tea to choose from, so find one that suits your preferences and mood.
