Occurrence:
Tea is a widely consumed beverage prepared by steeping cured or fresh leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant.
It comes in several varieties, including green, black, and oolong tea, which differ based on the processing method and degree of fermentation.
Chemical Nature:
1. Polyphenols:
Tea is rich in polyphenols, antioxidants that protect the body against oxidative stress.
This includes flavonoids and catechins, which have been studied for their health effects.
2. Catechins:
A type of flavonoid found particularly in green tea, catechins such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) are powerful antioxidants with potential therapeutic properties.
Medicinal Benefits:
1. Heart Health:
The antioxidants in tea, especially green tea, may help reduce the risk of heart disease by improving cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
2. Cancer Prevention:
The polyphenols in tea, like EGCG, have been investigated for their potential to reduce the risk of various cancers, including breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer, through their antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects.
3. Brain Health:
Regular tea consumption has been associated with a lower risk of neurodegenerative diseases and may improve brain function, likely due to its polyphenolic content and neuroprotective properties.