Guide Note
Green tea is the least processed of all teas as the leaves are harvested and dried before they have a chance to ferment. This allows green tea to retain many of the antioxidant properties that are lost during the processing of other teas, and also produces a fresh, slightly astringent flavor similar to that of raw tea leaves.
Fast Facts
- Contains less caffeine than other teas
- Used in Japanese tea ceremonies
- Humans have been drinking tea for over 500,000 years
- All tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis evergreen tree
Traditional Medicinal Use
Green tea has a long history as both a beverage and herbal medicine in Asian culture. In India, Japan, China, and Thailand, green tea has been used as an astringent to control bleeding and help heal wounds, as a diuretic, a mild stimulant, to help regulate body temperature and blood sugar, and to reduce gas and aid in digestion.
Health Benefits
Recent studies have indicated that drinking green tea regularly may help reduce one's chances of heart disease and cancer, lower cholesterol levels, reduce the inflammation associated with Crohn's Disease, lower blood pressure, and may assist in weight loss by raising the body's metabolism.
These claims, however, have yet to be verified by the FDA, as more research is needed to substantiate the potential health benefits of green tea.
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor for more information on the health benefits of green tea.
