Major health contributing constituents in tea

Although breaking up the holistic nature of tea to discuss the health benefits of its individual constituents is a simplistic way of understanding tea, it is the only way the science community is able to conduct experiments and surveys with immediately measurable parameters. Since the 18th century, scientists had been studying tea and spoken of its benefits. However, the past twenty years has witnessed the most intense scientific interest in its matters by far. Much is still to learn about this oldest form of drink, and there are over 100 bio-active materials in it, but there has been numerous researches supporting the health potency of these few constituents:

• Tea polyphenols (link)
• Theaflavins and other flavonoids
• L-Theanine, GABA, and other amino acids
• Statin
• Aromatic volatiles (essential oils)

I shall discuss them individually in separate articles. Posted ones can be accessed from the above list with clickable links. Come back for them or register with us for updates.

There are also some other well-known constituents in tea that are quite controversial, they will be discussed as well:

• caffeine (link)
• fluorides (link)
• oxalic acids
• environmental contaminants

Overall, evidences indicate that tea is powerful in anti-oxidative, anti-mutagenic and anti-pathogenic effects. Experiments and statistic studies show that tea may help to prevent cancers, heart diseases, bone loss, diabetes, and slow down aging. It relaxes the mind, facilitates weight-loss, boosts the immune system, and contributes to the health of the digestion track. <More: Health Benefits of Tea>

However, before you rush to drink this beverage as a wonder potion, I have to remind all readers that a natural health drink as such does not render its benefits until it becomes a long time habit. Therefore, it is wise to find a routine to enjoy it first before interpreting it as a health supplement. <More: A Drink or A Supplement?>

It is also important that it is not regarded as a medicine. It does help me all along on a daily basis especially in my difficult times, but it takes me a long time before I know its limitations and capabilities in short term assistance. Developing an affinity with it as an enjoyment is instrumental for my understanding of it and benefiting from it. Those who are in need of immediate medical attention should seek it and not rely solely on tea as the remedy.

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