What is green tea
More than four thousand years ago, the Chinese Emperor Shen Nung accidentally brewed tea leaves in hot water and became the first to taste the tea leaf infusion. Later, the drink captivated the people of Japan, Korea and other Asian countries, becoming part of Asian culture.
Processing tea leaves is a complex process. The main goal is to prevent oxidation of the leaves, preserve their natural green color, fresh aroma and high antioxidant content.
Usually, the top 2 leaves and a bud are harvested by hand. Next, the leaves may be kept outdoors or in the shade for several hours to reduce moisture and make them more elastic for processing. The key step that distinguishes green tea from others is steeping. The leaves are quickly heated to kill the enzymes that cause oxidation. There are two methods: Chinese (pan-frying) and Japanese (steaming). Then it is rolled into spirals, needles or pellets, dried at low temperature, sorted by quality and packaged.
Unlike black or oolong teas, green tea has a lighter, more herbal flavor and lower caffeine content. It is often chosen to support immunity, improve digestion, and reduce stress.
Types of green tea
There are many varieties, among which the most famous are Sencha, Gyokuro, Matcha, Longjing, and Bancha. Each variety differs in the processing method, region of cultivation, and flavor characteristics. For example, Matcha is a powdered tea that is consumed with crushed leaves, and Sencha is a classic Japanese leaf tea with a light, refreshing flavor.
Loose leaf is made from whole leaves or large pieces of tea leaves, which retains more antioxidants, essential oils, and natural flavor. When brewed, they produce a rich flavor and bright aroma.
Packaged tea usually contains crushed leaf residues – pollen and small particles that remain after processing. Such raw materials are less beneficial for the body, and also make the taste less expressive and often bitter.
To choose a quality product, you should pay attention to the flavor, color, and integrity of the leaves. High-quality tea has a bright green hue, a fresh smell, and is free of dust or impurities. It is best to buy green tea from trusted manufacturers or specialized stores. We will be happy to offer you quality drinks that will give you pleasure every day.
Composition of green tea leaves
The drink is rich in health-improving ingredients, including antioxidants (catechins), amino acids (including L-theanine), vitamins B, C, E, and trace elements such as potassium, magnesium, zinc, and fluorine. Thanks to this composition, the infusion supports the cardiovascular system, strengthens the immune system and helps to eliminate toxins.
Green tea has less caffeine than coffee – about 20-35 mg per cup, depending on the variety and brewing method, which makes it have a milder tonic effect. For comparison, a cup of coffee contains about 80-100 mg of caffeine.
The nutritional value of tea infusion is almost zero – it contains virtually no calories, fats or carbohydrates. This makes it an ideal drink for those who are watching their weight or following a healthy lifestyle.
General benefits of tea leaves for the body
What are the benefits of green tea?
The drink is known for its powerful antioxidant properties due to its high catechin content. These substances neutralize free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and maintaining cellular health.
It also has a positive effect on metabolism, promotes fat burning and improves metabolism. Regular inclusion in the diet can help control weight and stabilize blood sugar levels. In addition, the vitamins and polyphenols in the composition strengthen the immune system and enhance the body’s protective functions.
The antioxidants in the composition also slow down the aging process, improve skin condition, reduce inflammation and protect against premature wrinkles. The drink is useful for general rejuvenation and maintaining vitality.
The effect of a drink on cognitive function
The tandem of caffeine and the amino acid L-theanine stimulates brain activity, improves concentration, alertness and memory.
In addition to a short-term boost in mental performance, the tea drink can protect the brain from age-related changes. Antioxidants reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s by preventing neuronal damage.
L-theanine has a calming effect on the nervous system: it promotes relaxation, reduces stress and anxiety.
Thanks to this, the drink helps to maintain emotional balance and mental clarity even on busy days.
Disease prevention
Green tea plays an important role in the prevention of many diseases due to its bioactive components. Regular inclusion of the drink in the diet improves vascular elasticity, lowers blood pressure and helps to normalize heart rate.
In addition, it reduces the concentration of “bad” cholesterol and triglycerides, while increasing the level of “good” cholesterol, which helps to cleanse blood vessels and prevents the formation of atherosclerotic plaques.
Thanks to its antioxidants, especially catechins, it is also considered an effective means of preventing cancer. It helps to reduce inflammation, neutralizes carcinogens and inhibits the growth of tumor cells in the early stages of development.
Green tea for diseases of the digestive system
Moderate consumption of the drink helps to improve intestinal function, normalize microflora and stimulate the production of digestive enzymes. In addition, it has a mild choleretic effect and promotes better digestion of food.
In case of gastritis, reflux, pancreatitis, or gallbladder problems, the drink should be consumed with caution. Preference is given to a weak warm infusion after meals, only outside the exacerbation phase. It can maintain the tone of the digestive system, but requires prior consultation with a doctor.
Green tea for metabolic disorders
A drink made from tea leaves has a therapeutic effect on metabolic disorders due to its ability to regulate metabolism and eliminate toxins. It has a positive effect on blood sugar levels: catechins improve the sensitivity of cells to insulin and help reduce glucose, which is especially important in type 2 diabetes.
In case of gout, it acts as a mild diuretic, helping to eliminate uric acid. This reduces the risk of crystal formation in the joints and reduces inflammation. However, in case of gout exacerbation, it is better to limit its consumption and consult a doctor.
Green tea is often used to treat poisoning and hangovers. It promotes faster elimination of toxic substances, supports liver function, relieves nausea and normalizes the body’s water balance.
Green tea and blood pressure
For people with hypertension, it is recommended to drink green tea in moderate amounts (1-2 cups per day) in a warm, not hot form. You should choose a weak infusion and observe the body’s reaction, especially in combination with medications.
In case of low blood pressure, the drink may be appropriate as a mild natural stimulant. Thanks to caffeine, it helps to improve tone and reduce drowsiness.
Green tea for weight loss and fitness
For the drink to be effective in weight management, it should be drunk regularly, 2-3 cups a day, preferably between meals. Catechins in combination with caffeine activate thermogenesis, the process of heat production in the body, which helps burn calories even at rest. This speeds up the metabolism and helps to reduce fat reserves.
Green tea can serve as a natural energy drink before exercise. It increases endurance, improves fat burning during exercise, and promotes faster muscle recovery after physical activity.
Limitations and contraindications for use
In general, drinking green tea is beneficial, but side effects are possible for some people. You should take into account your individual characteristics and consult your doctor if in doubt. People with caffeine sensitivity, heart disease, or hypertension should limit or avoid this drink. In case of gastrointestinal diseases, its consumption should be reduced. During pregnancy – no more than a cup a day. Women during lactation are advised to consume tea in moderation. Due to its caffeine content, it is better not to offer it to children and adolescents.
Possible harm of green tea
Green tea, despite its many beneficial properties, can have certain side effects, especially if you consume this valuable drink in excessive amounts or without taking into account individual health characteristics.
In particular, the content of tannins can cause irritation of the gastric mucosa, which often leads to heartburn, heaviness or pain in the epigastric region.
High levels of caffeine can cause insomnia, hand tremors, irritability, headaches, and general nervousness, especially in people with a high sensitivity to stimulants.
In rare cases, tea tree leaves can provoke allergic reactions – rashes, itching, or even swelling.
Catechins and other active ingredients in tea leaves sometimes reduce the body’s ability to absorb iron from food, which is especially important for vegetarians and people with anemia.
The drink can also impair calcium absorption, which is undesirable for people with osteoporosis or a deficiency of this mineral.
Regularly exceeding the daily allowance – more than five cups a day – can cause serious symptoms: anxiety, heart attacks, insomnia, and headaches.
In addition, excessive consumption of green tea increases the risk of kidney stones due to the high content of oxalates in the leaves.
Proper preparation and use
Proper preparation and consumption of green tea is important for preserving its medicinal properties and taste.
To prepare this drink, use 1 teaspoon of leaves per 200 ml of water. It is important to observe the temperature regime: too hot water (over 80°C) can destroy nutrients and make the drink bitter. The optimal brewing temperature is 70-80°C. Insist the tea leaves for 2-3 minutes; for a more delicate flavor, the time can be reduced. It is recommended to drink 2-3 cups per day. Proper preparation and moderate consumption of green tea will help you to get the beneficial effects of this drink while preserving its taste.
Please note that yesterday’s tea loses its freshness and flavor characteristics even when stored in the refrigerator. In addition, bacteria can develop in it. It is best to make a fresh infusion every time.
Combination with other products
The infusion can be combined with various foods to emphasize its flavor or enhance its health benefits. Some combinations should be avoided.
Milk contains proteins (casein), which can bind antioxidants, in particular catechins, and reduce the antioxidant properties of tea.
Sugar in large quantities will make the drink high in calories and can neutralize some of the positive properties of catechins.
Combining green tea with alcohol is not recommended, as alcohol can reduce the effectiveness of tea’s antioxidants and worsen its effects on the body. In addition, it can put additional stress on the liver.
Some herbs, such as milk thistle or other diuretics, can have an excessive effect if combined with green tea, as it also has a mild diuretic effect, which can lead to dehydration.
What additives to tea nectar have a positive effect on the body?
- Lemon: adds not only flavor freshness, but also helps to enhance the absorption of antioxidants from the infusion thanks to vitamin C. This combination also helps to improve the immune system.
- Honey: can be a great sweetener. It should be added when the drink has cooled down a bit, as high temperatures can reduce the positive effects of natural honey on human health.
- Ginger: adds spice to the drink and has an anti-inflammatory effect. It helps to improve digestion and maintain a healthy immune system.
- Peppermint: provides a refreshing flavor and can help calm the nervous system, relieve stress and improve digestion.
Unconventional uses for green leaves
Green tea is widely used not only as a drink but also in various areas of everyday life. Thanks to its antioxidant content, it is actively used in skin and hair care, as tonics, masks, or rinses. These products help reduce inflammation, refresh the skin and give it a healthy appearance. In cooking, it is added to sauces, marinades, and even soups. Especially popular are desserts and drinks based on matcha tea, which combine health benefits, aesthetics, and exquisite taste.
