Green tea is a favourite among everybody now a days and is arguably one of the most popular healthy beverages available right now. It is because of it’s multiple health benefits due to the presence of various antioxidants and phytonutrients. Unlike other teas, green tea is among the least oxidized of all teas.
Due to the difference in its processing, green tea is able to retain the maximum number of antioxidants and polyphenols that are responsible for its health benefits. It contains very high levels of polyphenols, mainly catechins, a type of antioxidant.
- Polyphenols in green tea include catechins, flavonoids, theaflavins and tannins. These are responsible for it’s slightly astringent or bitter taste.
- Catechins are a type of polyphenols present in green tea which include epicatechin (EC), epigallocatechin (EGC), epicatechin gallate (ECG) and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG).
Green tea (Indian) are grown mostly in Darjeeling and Nilgiri. High-altitude Darjeeling grown green tea have a special astringent flavour, while Nilgiri green tea have distinct flavour with stronger taste.
Benefits of Green tea
The polyphenols in green tea have powerful anti-oxidant properties that enhance immunity by preventing or slowing down the oxidative damage to our body. These protect our body cells from oxidative stress by removing free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS). These free radicals are responsible for heart disease, diabetes, cancer, hypertension. Taking green tea on regular basis improve the body health and prevent these diseases.
Types of green tea
There are various types of green teas available according to the flavours and variety involved. The following teas are very popular now a days and you can include them in daily regimen to cherish their multiple health benefits. Nothing compares to the warm/hot tea in your hands with their beautiful aroma.
Matcha :
Matcha is one of the most popular tea. It’s a powdered green tea which is grown primarily in the shade. The tea leaves are meticulously stone-ground into a fine powder which gives out a rich herb like flavor. Matcha tea is loaded with antioxidants, especially catechins. It also help boost concentration levels, memory and induces calm. It aids in weight loss also if regularly taken.
Jasmine Green tea :
Jasmine green tea is a flavoured one with the essence of jasmine flower. It is very tasty with its sweet fragrance and includes delicate flavor of its white blossoms. This tea involves many antioxidants which can effectively fight free radical activity. Multiple studies have pointed out its link in improving arthritis, regulating blood pressure and relieving stress.
Chamomile Green tea :
This green tea flavoured with delicate chamomile flowers. When infused in hot water, it gives calm effect and this makes this tea one of the most favourite ones among green tea lovers. Chamomile tea has been known to help with stress relief. Its soothing effect with mildly sedative properties has also known to act as a good sleep inducer. Try to take it in night to have good sleep.
Tulsi/ Basil Green Tea :
Tulsi/basil is a very commonly found herb in indian houses. It is significant in the rich tradition of Indian ayurvedic and herbal remedies. It’s a combination of delightful concoction of health and flavor. The abundance of phytonutrients and antioxidants in green tea helps protect the body from free radicals. It has been linked to decrease stress, strengthen immunity and improves digestion and metabolism.
Longjing:
This is most beloved green tea in China. It’s aroma is similar to fried chestnuts over wood charcoal. It is straw coloured, tending towards amber with a tea-oil sheen. The high quality, first grade Longjing is comprised of flattened budsets that have a characteristic straw- yellow tingle. It is a power pack of antioxidants and polyphenols. A must try due to it’s unique flavor and benefits.
Genmaicha:
Genmai Cha is one of the most established teas of Japan and currently very famous among youthful tea drinkers. It is manufactured by blending grains of toasted brown rice. This tea have unique spicy aroma with hints of roasted rice. It is clear green in colour and tingled with an olive hue. This glorious beverage can be sipped just for divine pleasure and is one of the few drinks that perfectly combine well with both savory and sweet food.
Health Tip
Add lemon to the warm green tea. The Vitamin C of the lemon will make the healthy catechins easier to absorb. If taken with milk, on the other hand makes it harder to absorb catechins. So, avoid taking it with milk and enjoy the benefits.
Storage of green tea
Green tea deteriorates very easily when comes in contact with light, oxygen, humidity or high temperature. Proper storage can significantly prolong its flavours and benefits. To preserve the freshness of green tea, store them as follows:
- In a sealed airtight container that completely blocks light a well as air exposure.
- In a cool and dry place.
- Keep it away from strong-smelling foods.
So, enjoy the different flavours as well as different aromatic green tea. Besides it’s taste, the green tea have numerous health benefits. It’s a perfect combination of both of them. Hope you try each one of them.
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This content provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or doctor for more information.
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