Image Credit: Zadorozhnyi Viktor/Shutterstock
Emmanuel Adebiyi
According to legend, in 2737 BC, a Chinese emperor, Shen Nung, was sitting under the tree when his servant boiled drinking water and some leaves. The leaves blew into the water band. Since then, tea has been a part of our lives. Tea is revered in traditional medicine as it contains active ingredients made from various plants to address a range of ailments.
Chamomile tea is known to aid sleep and support immunity, peppermint tea is associated with promoting healthy digestion, and green tea with managing diabetes, to mention but a few. For modern medicine, research is very important, and a lot of research has been on how tea actually benefits the body in recent times.
CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH: A 2020 study published in the National Library of Science found that for every cup of tea a person consumed daily, there was a 4% lower risk of death from heart disease, a 2% lower risk of heart attack and other cardiovascular events, a 4% lower risk of stroke and a 1.5% lower risk of death from all causes. So while you may want to exercise and take other steps to improve your cardiovascular health, you might want to look into incorporating black or green tea into your diet.
MENTAL HEALTH: Tea has a lot to offer, and helping your mental health isn’t out of it. Tea’s blend of L-theanine and caffeine creates a unique mental boost. L-theanine is known for its potential to promote relaxation and cognitive enhancement, and caffeine in the right amount can improve alertness. Research also shows that green tea is linked with a 64% lower chance of cognitive impairment in middle-aged and older adults. Even without its content, the act of making and drinking tea can help calm you down—mind and body. So when you’re tackling a busy day after classes, a cup of tea would be a mindful addition.
IMMUNE SYSTEM SUPPORT: Tea usually contains antiviral and antibacterial constituents, which may strengthen immunity by reducing infection risk. Studies indicate that EGCG, a compound found in green tea, impacts the function of T cells significantly. It also has anti-inflammatory effects and prevents autoimmune diseases by modulating immune cells. Black teas are also not left out, as their theaflavins also support immune responses.
Drinking tea regularly definitely complements a healthy lifestyle.Tea has stood the test of time, from 2737 BC in China till now; it is the second most consumed beverage globally, only after water.
Grab a cup of tea today.
