Green is one of the varieties of tea available. Other popular varieties include black and oolong. The distinction is made by the way leaves are processed. In green tea, the leaves are unfermented. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, tea is the world's second most popular beverage--the first is water--and has been used for more than 5,000 years in India, Japan, Thailand and China.
Description
Camellia sinensis is the official name for the plant from which black, green and oolong teas originate. It is an evergreen shrub, or tree, native to eastern Asia and can grow to more than 25 feet in height, but is usually kept pruned to about 3 feet for easier handling on plantations. Camellia sinensis is related to the magnolia tree and has fragrant white flowers and dark green leaves. The small, young leaves are used in tea making. The trees are usually 3 to 5 years old before they are ready for picking. Camellia sinensis prefers warmer climates and does well in altitudes up to 7,000 feet above sea level.
Nutritional Facts
Green tea leaves that are brewed with very hot water provide more nutrients into the tea. The first use of the tea bag provides more nutrients than subsequent uses. A 1 cup serving of brewed green tea provides 5 mg of vitamin C, 0.1 mg of vitamin B5, 2.5 mg of vitamin A, 24 international units, or IU, of vitamin D and 76 mg of caffeine. Green tea is a rich source of antioxidants.
Medical Benefits
According to the National Cancer Institute, green tea contains catechins, which are antioxidants that can slow the growth of cancer cells, especially in skin, liver and the stomach. U.S. Veterans Affairs scientist Santosh Katiyar published an article in the Oct.16, 2009, online edition of the "Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry" stating that "the polyphenols in green tea have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties." These polyphenols also enhance the interleukin-12 production within the body, repairing DNA and preventing skin cancer. UMMC also says green tea has been shown to prevent artherosclerosis and high cholesterol.
Herbal Benefits
As an herb, green tea has stimulant, diuretic and astringent properties that work specifically on the liver. According to herbalist Michael Tierra, green tea contains tannins that are helpful in treating diarrhea. Drinking 1 to 2 cups daily is suggested to help prevent certain cancers.
Precautions
Green tea contains caffeine and should be avoided by pregnant and breastfeeding women; those who have heart, liver and stomach disorders; and those who suffer from anxiety. Consuming large amounts of green tea over a prolonged period of time could overdose on caffeine, with symptoms such as headaches, nausea, loss of appetite and insomnia. Green tea can interact with some antibiotics, blood thinners, beta blockers and those taking chemotherapy. Before drinking green tea or taking a green tea supplement, you should first speak to your physician.
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