The Health Factor of Teas

Tea, teh, cha, chai. Whatever you call it, it’s a common drink that is present in the history of many nations around the world. 

Tea has always been a staple drink for Malaysians – from the common Chinese tea and herbal tea (leong cha) available at your local hawker, to its milk varieties – teh tarik and teh si ping. Do you know what differentiates these teas and which tea is best suited for you?

All teas are made from the leaves of Camellia sinesis. Its leaves are then cultivated and processed in different ways to bring out specific flavours and aromas, resulting in the many variations of tea available. 

The most common types of tea gets its flavour and colour from its state of oxidization. White and Green tea have the least oxidised tea leaves, while the most oxidised tea leaves are of the Oolong, Black, Pu’Er variation. The lesser a tea is oxidised, the more gentle and lighter it will be in taste and aroma. Heavily oxidised teas will yield a dark deep reddish brown or earthy infusion, while a white will yield a pale yellow-green liquid. Of course, there are exceptions to the rule.

On the other hand, herbal teas are not made of the leaves from Camellia sinesis. They are usually not considered as tea but are referred to as Tisane. Some popular herbal teas are peppermint tea, ginger tea, moringa tea, rose tea, barley tea and chamomile tea.

Pu’Er Tea is a type of tea that is fermented. They are exposed to microflora and bacteria in its aging process similar to wine or yogurt. The tea’s flavour profile can change drastically and increase in depth over many years. Some of the most highly regarded and expensive teas of this type are well over 30 years old.

Pu'er teas yield a dark, hearty brew that is low in caffeine and usually tastes earthy and mellow. The Chinese believe that Pu'er aids digestion, while new studies indicate that Pu'er may help in reducing cholesterol.

Tea slows the aging process

Teas are rich in antioxidants, which help to prevent the body from aging and against damage from pollution. Antioxidants are higher in less oxidized tea leaves (white and green tea options) as it is less processed.

Reduces the rate of heart attack & stroke

A published study shows that combined data from earlier reports found nearly 20 percent reduction in the risk of heart attack and a 35 percent reduced risk of stroke among those who drank one to three cups of green tea a day. Those who drank four or more cups of green tea daily had a 32 percent reduction in the risk of having a heart attack.

Prevent bone loss

Moringa tea, a popular herbal tea that originates from South Asia is known for its medicinal properties. Moringa is rich in calcium, iron, vitamin A and K making it a great choice of beverage to help you keep your bones strong.

Boost immune system

Studies have shown that tea has the ability to boost the immune system to effectively fight illnesses. Basil or tulsi tea has been used by Ayurvedic practitioners for centuries to help keep the immune system strong after injuries or illnesses thanks to its antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties.

Herbal tea soothes digestive system

Some herbal teas like chamomile, can be good for people with irritable bowel syndrome as it releases the spasm of involuntary muscles while ginger teas can calm nausea.