It's a truth universally acknowledged that a cup of tea solves everything. And it's true also that tea has become rather fashionable in the health industry. But what are the health benefits of tea? Which one would suit you? Well I've created a little list for you to peruse to find out!

Earl Grey

A personal favourite, classically black but now comes in green and oolong variations, the Earl Grey is a warming bergamot orange flavoured tea. The black tea contains catechins, a powerful antioxidant that fights virus infections and prevents bacteria. This works well alongside the bergamot which is well known for improving blood circulation and reducing fevers.  It's also anti congestive, often used in vaporisers. The citrus extract believed by many to increase metabolism by helping break your food down faster and therefore aid in weight loss. Black tea also helps lower blood triglyceride levels and helps to lower cholesterol when drunk over an extended period of time. Triglycerides are directly linked to heart problems, so reducing these is only ever beneficial.

Green Tea

Originating from China, Green Tea has fast become a favourite all over. Also containing catechins it has powerful antioxidant properties and it has been recommended to drink between 3 and 5 cups to help combat cancer and heart disease. Studies have also shown it lowers your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, Alzheimers and Parkinsons Disease . The caffeine and catechins combined help weight loss by boosting metabolism, increasing statutory fat burning, with studies showing it could lead to burning an additional 75-100 calories per day. 

Peppermint Tea

Peppermint is an aromatic herb in the mint family that is a cross between Watermint and Spearmint. Peppermint is well known for helping with tummy upsets, such as gas, bloating and indigestion. Capsules containing peppermint oil reduced incidence and severity of nausea and vomiting in a study in 200 people undergoing chemotherapy for cancer. Peppermint has been shown to relax the muscles in the digestive system and improve digestive symptoms. Another obvious benefit is oral - peppermint tea is much nicer than other hot drinks for improving your breath. It's antibacterial properties kill germs that cause plaque - and it smells lovely doing so! As well as being antibacterial it's also anti-inflammatory meaning it's great for helping with clogged sinuses and colds. And being naturally caffeine free it's a great choice to help you relax before bed.  

Jasmine Tea

Jasmine tea is usually brewed with green ta leaves, and so has many of the same benefits. It's also bursting with antioxidants, helps aid weight loss, contains catechins to aid oral health and lowers risk of cancer and other diseases. It also contains caffeine which helps boost brain function by helping you feel more alert and helping short term memory. It's also high in polyphenols which may hep portect you against heart disease, by stopping bad cholesterol from sticking to your artery walls and causing plaque. 

English Breakfast Tea

The good ol' cuppa, preferably alongside a fry up. Also brimming with antioxidants, it's great for anti-inflammatory properties and for protecting against viruses. Consuming these on a regular basis also helps your heart stay healthy by lowering bad cholesterol. The polyphenols found in black tea may help maintain a healthy gut by promoting the growth of good bacteria and inhibiting the growth of bad bacteria, such as Salmonella. In addition, black tea contains antimicrobial properties that kill off harmful substances and improve gut bacteria and immunity by helping repair the lining of the digestive tract. Studies have also shown it help lower blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of Alzheimers, Cancer, Type 2 Diabetes and more.

Loosey Goosey or Wrap It Up?

When researching whether loose tea leaves or tea bags are better, you're bombarded with people telling you to drink loose tea as teabags contain Dist and Fannings, the crumpled up old bits of tea leaves. Flavour wise, it can't be denied that loose tea is better. Teabags, due to the leaves used and their inability to expand within the bag, give a bitter taste when brewed. When it comes to health however, you may be pleasantly surprised. According to SBS:

"Loose leaf may contain more bioactives because they use higher quality leaves. But leaves in teabags are cut smaller, and this is thought to enhance the extraction process. Lower quality teas may also include more stems, which are higher in L-theanine than the leaves. So while fancy loose leaf might taste better, you probably get more bang for buck from a humble tea bag."

I think it's pretty safe to say tea is just fantastic. It tastes lovely and across the board is great for colds and weight loss. And if you want a richer flavour and enjoy the ritual element, go for loose tea, but if you're worried about which one will give you more health benefits, both tea bags and loose tea does the trick. Now, go stick the kettle on!

Originally published on Hayley Anne Writes.

Hayley is an actor and writer, and has had poems and stories published, as well as a monthly lifestyle column in an online magazine.

She is currently in production of her short film 'You Really Got Me'  starring Kevin McNally and Phyllis Logan, which she has written and produced.

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