Latin name: Camellia sinensis
Chinese name: lucha
What is Green Tea?
Green tea is a tea made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, which is the same plant that forms the basis of black, white, and oolong tea. Green tea undergoes the least amount of oxidation to attain its quality. It originates from China and is featured prominently in Japanese culture as well. The health benefits of green tea have been touted for nearly 5,000 years, and it is known to have a third of the caffeine of coffee. There are many different grades and qualities of green and other teas available on the market, and the extent of the health benefits varies as well.
What are the health benefits of Green Tea?
Green tea is used for a wide variety of medicinal functions, including boosting mental alertness and helping reduce the chance of cognitive impairment in the elderly. It is said to prevent diabetes, lower LDL cholesterol, and inhibit the HIV virus. The conditions it is used to treat include tumors, abscesses, bladder conditions, lethargy, cancer, liver disease, weight loss, halitosis and bacteria for bad breath, and inflammatory bowel disease. The plant itself is used to treat asthma, peripheral vascular disease, and coronary artery disease. When applied externally, green tea is used to wash or treat cuts, burns, bruises, and insect bites.
Are there any precautions for taking Green Tea?
Excess consumption of the caffeine in green tea can lead to irritability, sleeplessness, and act as a diuretic in removing nutrients from the body. Use of green tea may lead to diarrhea or constipation.
Where can I find Green Tea?
Green tea can be found online, in supermarkets, in health food stores, in herbal specialty stores, or in specialty tea shops.
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