Why is Green Tea so good for you?
There has been more recent research, particularly in Japan, on the beneficial effects of green tea to our health.
Firstly, all green teas, including sencha, gyokuro, matcha, longjing/dragonwell and pu-erh, come from camellia sinensis plant. The uniqueness of each type of green tea is determined by several factors, such as growing methods, timing of the leaves’ harvest, processing methods, and the length of fermentation.
Green tea possesses about 30%-49% catechins (containing polyphenols), a strong anti-oxidants more than any dietary sources, and the most abundant type of catechins is EGCG ( epigallo-catechin gallate).
Prevents influenza and colds
Catechins help to prevent influenza and illnesses. When gargling with green tea, there is less incidence of getting a flu or colds. In one study, saliva and virus were put in a test tube, then added catechins. Within 10 seconds the virus was deactivated.
Reduces inflammation
Scientists found that catechin triggers the production of flavonifractor plautii, a bacteria that suppresses the production of Th2 cells cytokines, so to suppress pro-inflammatory response of cytokines.
Prevents brain degeneration
Drinking green tea daily helps prevent brain degeneration. They suppress decline of cognitive function and can help prevent brain shrinkage.
Calms the mind
Green tea is packed with medicinal phytochemicals L-Theanine which calms the mind, reduces stress and anxiety, and helps focus. L-Theanine also increases dopamine in your brain. If you prefer tea that has minimal caffeine with L-Theanine, Keemun chinese black tea would be a good choice.
Anti-carcinogenic
EGCG has been known to kill cancer cells or stop them from multiplying. Cancer cells receptors G7LR and EGCG bind to the cancer cells. The binding serves as a switch and stop these cells from multiplying or even killing them. EGCG works on any cancer cells with G7LR receptors, which are practically all cancer
cells. Since one needs to drink an immense amount of green tea for EGCG to work optimally,
one can additionally consume carrots and spinach rich in vitamin A which contain polyphenol that boosts EGCG’s anti-cancer effects.
Reduces allergic reactions
Newest finding suggests green tea suppresses Th2 cell immune response, reducing allergic
reactions. Th2 cells trigger esonophils and histamines, attacking invaders that are outside the
cells which drive allergic reactions, thus react when exposed to foreign particles.
Supports Liver
It can slow the progression of liver damage. It also helps liver detoxification.
Prevents gallstones
EGCG in green tea as a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory prevents gallstones
Within the green tea family, Pu-Er Tea, a fermented chinese tea, has additional health benefits.
Discovered during Tang Dynasty, 603AD-906AD,it contains food for good bacteria ( Akkermansia muciniphila) which protects gut lining. Not only does it protect against metabolic syndrome, such as obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, it also Improves blood sugar regulation. It has anti-oxidant and anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties . It is recommended to drink 3-4 cups of Pu-erh tea daily to achieve full benefits.