By: Cat Crawford As an avid tea drinker myself, I know full well the added health benefits a single cup of tea could have to my immune system, besides its soothing and comforting value. Different types of teas have different healing properties, and it is important to know which types of teas can aid...

By: Cat Crawford 

As an avid tea drinker myself, I know full well the added health benefits a single cup of tea could have to my immune system, besides its soothing and comforting value. Different types of teas have different healing properties, and it is important to know which types of teas can aid you best in your daily life; and important to drink it black to receive all the benefits (with no added sweeteners or creams!)

1. Green Tea

Green tea is best known for housing anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants that is key to lowering your risk of stroke and certain kinds of cancers. According to a 2017 study published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, it can even help Alzheimer’s. Green tea has also been linked to being responsible for bettering your memory and promoting weight loss; an overall over-achiever and personal favorite of mine.

2. Oolong Tea

A staple in East Asian households, oolong tea is best known to help prevent diabetes and heart disease, reducing blood sugar and insulin levels with regular consumption. This ancient Chinese tea has also been believed to better the appearance of skin and help reduce eczema, as well as promote weight loss, making it a popular tea amongst youths.

3. Jasmine Tea

What we most commonly refer to as jasmine tea is made up of the aforementioned and revered green tea mixed with jasmine flowers, creating the tea’s signature soothing aroma. Jasmine tea is the most popular drink for Japanese people, specifically those living in the Okinawa Prefecture, which has led many to believe that the tea is responsible for the long and healthy lives that many Okinawan inhabitants live. The jasmine plant is also well known for being able to reduce stress and induce a calming sensation through one’s sense of smell.

4. Rooibos Tea

If you have high blood pressure, often have tense muscles, or hate caffeine, rooibos tea can alleviate all your troubles (except for your hatred for caffeine). This South African tea houses just as many antioxidants as green tea, proving to be able to protect the liver from stress as well as manage weight loss. Unlike black or green tea, rooibos tea does not contain caffeine, so it is safe to drink at night!

In his book, The Book of Tea, Okakura Kakuzo once said that, “tea began as medicine and grew into a beverage”. Primarily used less for pleasure and more as a mindfulness aid, tea has evolved from a medicinal aid to an everyday staple. There are many other kinds of teas not listed above that produce special medicinal properties, so don’t strike them out on your next visit to the grocery store!