For as long as I can remember, I have been consistent with one thing, drinking tea. The hot drink made from plants, berries and fruit often referred to as tea, but are actually tisanes. I drink lots of black and green tea. Herbal tisanes high on my list, Chamomile and Lemon Balm.

The scientific name for tea is Camellia Sinensis. Most teas come from the same plant and get their identities by how and when the leaves are harvested and how those leaves are prepared. Variations of this plant can be found all over the world resulting in many cultivars. Cultivars are the gene lineage of plants. Cultivars arise from the impact of environmental conditions and also human interference. These variations range from a light sweetness to a bold bitterness.

Types of Tea

Black
Green
White
Oolong
Pu-erh

Common benefits of drinking teas and tisanes

Supports lowering cholesterol levels
Supports lowering risk of heart disease
Relaxation benefits
Relief from symptoms of illness

What makes tea healthy

Tea is best known for its antioxidants in support of health. Polyphenols have been proven to be the component of tea to have positive effects to health. The higher the polyphenols the healthier the tea. White teas, which are neither cured nor fermented, have the highest levels of antioxidants.

Counter effects of tea

It is important to inform your healthcare providers of anything you consume. Independently teas and tisanes have been shown to have positive effects, but may have negatives effects and interactions with medications. It is important to research potential harmful effects of tea for your circumstances.

In the next post, we will discuss tea brewing and why water temperature matters.