TEA – three letters that hide power

Tea means something different to everyone. For me, it's a morning treat, a weekend breakfast, or a healing drink that relieves all the pain of a virus. So let's take a look at its leaves.

We will introduce several main types of tea, which differ in the way the tea leaves are processed and fermented. Tea fermentation is a process in which chemical changes occur in the tea leaves due to enzymes (naturally contained in the leaves) and possibly microorganisms, depending on the type of tea that develop during this process. In kombucha, on the other hand, the tea leaves are fermented with sugar, followed by fermentation in the presence of microorganisms beneficial to health. This also creates alcohol, and kombucha can also be a sparkling drink, while fermented tea never has any sparkle.

The main ingredient in tea is caffeine, which is called theine in this context. Its effect is to stimulate the body and mind, but it has a gentler effect than classic coffee. Another substance is L-theanine - an amino acid that supports concentration and relaxation and, in combination with caffeine, ensures so-called calm alertness. Polyphenols, natural antioxidants that strengthen immunity and protect cells from aging. The typical aroma and taste of tea are due to essential oils and aromatic substances, such as jasmine, bergamot, smoky tones (Lapsang Souchong), flowers or fruits. And what about minerals and trace elements to support the heart and bones? Yes, tea also contains these substances, especially potassium, magnesium, fluorine or manganese.

Green tea is the least processed. After harvesting, the tea leaves are quickly dried or steamed, which preserves their green color and fresh taste reminiscent of fine grass. It is characterized by a high content of L-theanine and also the antioxidant polyphenols - catechins described above

White tea is also only gently dried and sometimes fermented. It has a very delicate, delicate taste and both of these teas contain less theine, the following representative has significantly more of it.

Black tea is fully oxidized, which means that the tea leaves are left in the air to turn black after harvesting. It has a strong, distinctive taste and contains more caffeine than other types of tea and, from the polyphenols, mainly theaflavins and thearubigins.

Oolong tea is partially oxidized, which lies between green and black tea on the imaginary scale. It has a complex flavor that can be fruity or floral, and is often characterized by more pronounced notes.

Pu-erh tea, from the Yunnan region of China, is fermented and aged, giving it an earthy flavor that develops over time. There are two main types: sheng (raw) and shu (ripe).

Herbal teas (thousands of varieties) – These are not made from the tea plant (Camellia sinensis), but from various herbs, flowers, spices, or fruits. Some of the most popular include chamomile, mint, rooibos, rose hips, and hibiscus.

Rooibos – This tea comes from South Africa and is made from the Aspalathus linearis plant. It is caffeine-free and has a sweet, nutty flavor.

Each type of tea has its own specific properties and preparation methods. It depends on personal preferences which type of tea will suit you the most and also what it should contain for you.

Each type of tea has a slightly different effect, but here are some general health benefits of tea:

Anti-aging antioxidants - neutralize free radicals, reduce the risk of chronic diseases and skin aging.

Heart health - studies suggest that tea can help reduce "bad" LDL cholesterol levels and improve vascular health, improve blood circulation and lower blood pressure. Green tea plays a significant role in correcting cardiovascular diseases.

Metabolism and weight loss support - especially green tea and oolong increase metabolism. Catechins and caffeine help produce heat by burning calories and thus benefit various weight loss efforts.

Improve digestion - herbal teas and decoctions are representatives. They can calm the stomach in case of bloating and flatulence, and black and green teas, thanks to tannins, contribute to a healthy intestinal microflora.

Support of brain function - with black tea you can manage concentration and short-term memory, with green tea, thanks to L-theanine, you can calm down, balance caffeine and also reduce anxiety.

Support of the immune system - not only during the acute phase of the disease, but also as a prevention. Echinacea tea can cope very well with the flu.

Improvement of skin health - some studies show that the polyphenols in green tea protect the skin from UV radiation.

Calming and reducing stress - I probably don't need to write anything here... you simply can't do without tea. But herbal teas are very suitable for example, especially mint, lemon balm or chamomile. Herbal teas, such as lavender or chamomile tea, have calming effects on the nervous system. Many people drink tea to unwind and relax after a busy day.

Overall, tea is a healthy beverage that can provide many health benefits when consumed in moderation. It is always good to keep in mind individual needs, current health status, and the fact that too much of anything is bad. Even healthy ones.