GREEN TEA BASICS
Green Tea Basics
By Wes Homan
Tea is a beverage which is obtained by curing the leaves of the plant Camellia sinensis. There are three main varieties of tea. They are the black, green and Oolong types. They can all be processed from the same plant, but undergo different stages of production. The green tea is obtained by minimal oxidation of the plant while it is processed.
Green tea originated from China and has since become popular in Asia, The Middle East and Japan. It has become well recognized for healing and preventing diseases such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, infection and diseases of the immune system. It contains vitamins which are good anti oxidants. They purge the body of toxins, lower cholesterol levels and prevent blood clot formation which is abnormal. It has been said to boost mental alertness and the immune system. It also lowers stress hormone levels in the body. Other uses of green tea include weight loss, skin care and mouthwash. A regular daily intake helps in the overall health and well being of the body. Clinical evidence also shows that it can be applied directly to the skin and the leaves used as an exfoliant.
When making green tea, it is important not to overbrew it as the flavour might be ruined. It is always best to follow the manufacturers’ instructions as the varieties have different methods of preparation. It is very difficult to recommend a dosage, but it is believed that 3 cups of green tea a day is not bad considering the fact that it contains caffeine.
However, green tea is said to cause insomnia in those who take it regularly. This happens to be the only harmful effect of the tea.