DESCRIPTION
Green tea is made from the tips of shoots of the shrub Camellia sinensis; black tea is made from the fermented, dried leaves. An essential oil, called tea absolute, is distilled from black tea. Both the leaves and oil are used for medicinal purposes. Fruit teas can also be beneficial to the health.
FOOD USES
The fluoride in tea may be beneficial in the prevention of dental caries.
Tea may help in the treatment of diarrhea, dysentery, hepatitis, and gastroenteritis.
The flavonoids in tea may help to destroy harmful bacteria and viruses.
Cold, steeped tea bags placed over the eyes will soothe soreness and irritation. Their astringent properties also make them useful for treating minor injuries and insect bites.
The leaves of green and black tea may be beneficial in the prevention of heart disease and stroke.
Raspberry-leaf tea is a well-known tonic when taken during pregnancy. It also helps prepare the breasts for breast-feeding.
DATA FILE
Properties
Tea provides folic acid (vitamin B9), and some potassium and magnesium. It contains fluoride (0.3-0.5mg. per cup), tannins, and methylxanthines -stimulants that include caffeine. Tea acts on the area of the nervous system that controls the respiratory and digestive systems. It is a diuretic and astringent. Antioxidants called polyphenols have beneficial effects on the circulatory system, while flavonoids act on the immune system.
Special notes
- Studies have shown that green tea may contribute to the prevention of cancer, particularly stomach cancer. Green tea capsules are commercially available but benefits may also accrue from drinking freshly made green tea.
- Always allow the tea to cool slightly before drinking. Do not drink it very hot.
- The caffeìne content of tea is much higher than that of coffee.
- Tea may cause adverse reactions in people who are undergoing medical treatmenr.
Contraindications
- Drinking tea to excess can cause constipation, indigestion, dizziness, palpitations. nntabAty, and insomnia.
- Tea can interfere with the effectiveness of drugs such as allopurinol (for the treatment of gout), antibiotics, antiulcer drugs, and the drug theopbyttne, prescribed for asthma. It can prevent the absorption of ion and interfere with the effectiveness of sedative drugs.
