by Aaron Fried
Dolce Diet Staff Writer
Tea has been used for health and healing since ancient times. Now, knowledge of the benefits of those little leaves has spread across the world. There are over 3,000 types of teas, all of which have their own unique appeal. Here are 5 of the most common, along with their lesser known health benefits.
1. Black Tea
This is the most common type of tea in the Western world. If you’re not a coffee drinker, or want to quit coffee, black tea might be a good substitute since it has the highest caffeine content of any tea. In fact, it is widely known as Breakfast Tea. It may also protect lungs from smoke and pollution damage and potentially lower the risk of stroke.
2. Green Tea
Mike Dolce – and much of the medical community – love green tea … and for good reason! It has been shown to lower the risk of both Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease, help in weight loss through thermogenesis, assist in fighting certain cancers, and reduce stress on the brain, along with several other benefits.
3. White Tea
This is the least processed variety of tea, and there are studies which suggest that it has the strongest anti-cancer properties of any tea. It can also fight bacterial infections.
4. Oolong Tea
Though one of the less common types of tea in America, studies suggest that oolong tea can help to lower cholesterol. Rich in powerful antioxidants, oolong tea also can help remove harmful toxins from our bodies.
5. Nighttime herbal teas
If you have trouble falling asleep or just want some help letting go of the day’s stress, try a tea containing chamomile or valerian root, both popular herbal ingredients in nighttime teas. Valerian root has sedative and anxiety-reducing effects while chamomile not only helps produce a relaxed state, but it can also help knock out colds and ease menstrual cramps.
