According to philosopher Bernard-Paul Heroux, "There is no trouble so great or grave that cannot be much diminished by a nice cup of tea." While this might be a slight exaggeration, according to a wealth of research conducted in recent years, it might be completely true. Study after study conducted at university laboratories around the world have shown that the consumption of tea can offer protection against some cancers, heart disease, stroke, osteoporosis and liver disease. So what is it about tea that makes drinking it so good for you? The answer lies in antioxidants.
So, what exactly are antioxidants? Good question. First it's necessary to understand what exactly oxidation is. Oxidation is a normal bodily process that steadily damages our cells. Some researchers believe the process is what causes aging and ultimately, death. Although oxidation is a natural result of our body's metabolic processes, exposure to things like pollution, smoking, alcohol or excessive sun exposure can accelerate the affects. Antioxidants and related polyphenols are compounds found in many foods and herbs that combat the effects of oxidation, hence the name anti-oxidant. True teas, those plucked from Camellia Sinensis, provide an excellent natural source of antioxidants - with the added benefit of delicious flavor!
Interestingly, although the concepts of oxidization and antioxidants weren't known at the time, in ancient China a popular expression extolled the health benefits of tea: "Drinking a daily cup of tea will surely starve the apothecary." Now, rather than starving your apothecary (pharmacist) we believe it can be beneficial to talk to a medical professional about how drinking tea can help you. Tea. Is there anything it can't do?
Brewing Instructions: Warm the cup/pot with hot water. Pour freshly drawn boiling water over 1 rounded teaspoon (2.5 g) of leaves per cup and steep for 5 minutes. Enjoy!
