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This is what each type of tea is good for
๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ Mexico /Health & Science

This is what each type of tea is good for

From El Universal · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

Explainer Named sources Context piece
  • Tea, originating from ancient China, is derived from the Camellia sinensis plant; other herbal drinks are technically infusions.
  • Historically used for detoxification, tea's properties like anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits have been studied over time.
  • Popular types include green tea (antioxidants, caffeine), black tea (energy, weight control), white tea (cardiovascular health), and Oolong tea (various benefits).

Tea, one of the world's oldest and most consumed beverages, traces its origins to ancient China. Initially valued for the curative properties of the Camellia sinensis plant, its preparation and consumption have evolved significantly over millennia. While many popular drinks incorporate ingredients like mint or chamomile, only those derived from Camellia sinensis are true teas; others are classified as infusions.

Legend attributes the discovery of tea to Emperor Shennong around 2737 B.C., when leaves from a bush accidentally fell into boiling water. Initially, ancient Chinese preparations included leaves, bark, roots, and fruits, primarily for detoxification. From China, tea spread to Japan via Buddhist monks, then to India and other Asian regions. By the 17th century, European merchants introduced it to the continent.

As traditional medicine advanced, the properties of tea were extensively studied, revealing benefits such as anti-inflammatory, digestive, antioxidant, antibacterial effects, and immune system support. This research has led to the identification of distinct advantages associated with various types of tea.

Green tea, a popular choice, is rich in antioxidants like catechins and polyphenols, along with caffeine, L-theanine, vitamins, and minerals. Its consumption may help lower cholesterol, regulate metabolism, and prevent respiratory infections. Black tea, also abundant in antioxidants and caffeine, provides energy, aids in anti-inflammatory processes, supports weight management, and may prevent cardiovascular diseases when consumed moderately. White tea, minimally processed to retain natural compounds, offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, benefiting cardiovascular health and cellular protection. Oolong tea is also noted for its contributions to health.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by El Universal in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.