A perfect day for tea

By Amber Niswonger

We have certainly had many good days for tea lately, with the weather being so cold and rainy. There are many different kinds of tea, but one of the most beneficial is green tea. Green tea comes from the natural dried leaves of the tea plant (Camellia sinensis). Black tea is derived from oxidized green tea leaves. Black tea is also one of the most common forms of tea. Most iced teas are made from black tea. Both green and black teas have been used for thousands of years in Asia, both as a beverage and an herbal medicine. Decaffeinated green tea is available, but it does not have the same benefits as green tea left in its natural state. Green tea contains caffeine. However, the caffeine in green tea is considered to be an important component. Caffeine in small quantities stimulates the central nervous system and promotes blood circulation. The content of caffeine in green tea doesn't even compare to the caffeine in coffee.

One cup of green tea contains one hundred to two hundred milligrams of EGCG's. EGCG's (Epigallocatechin Gallate) are strong antioxidants. Protecting the body from cancer, food poisoning, cavities, etc. They are also said to have basically the same antioxidant effects on the body as vitamin E. Four cups of green tea a day is what is recommended for maximum benefit.

Green tea blocks the attachment of bacteria to the teeth, protecting against cavities. Green tea is also non-toxic, so there are no potential side effects on the body. Green tea has been shown to be anti-bacterial, therefore it is able to kill the bacteria that causes acne. It also has been useful for hair loss, (or androgenetic alopecia). Anyone who is a smoker or is around smoke should drink green tea, because it is very good for your lungs and respiratory system. Here are some other benefits green tea has to offer:

-Enhances health

-Prevents cancer

-Controls high blood pressure

-Lowers blood sugar levels

-Suppresses aging

-Refreshes the body

-Deters food poisoning

-Stops cavities from forming

-Fights viruses

-Acts as a functional food

-Aids in weight loss

You can buy green tea in tea bags or in loose tea by the ounce, and strain it yourself. You just simply heat up a cup of water and throw your tea bag in. Steep it for about three to five minutes, and enjoy. If you buy it in loose tea form you use about one teaspoon of the tea, steep it and then strain it yourself. Green tea comes in many different flavors - jasmine (my personal favorite), lemon, orange, tangerine, mint or just plain flavored green tea is good too.

So you don't like tea, well you're still in luck! Green tea extract is available in capsule form. Because green tea is such a good antioxidant and helps to slow the aging process, it is also put in creams, moisturizers and lotions, for your face and body. Shampoo and conditioners with green tea in them are also very good.