"Chinese diet tea" is a blanket term for a group of teas formulated for weight loss. The teas come in several varieties, with recipes based on traditional Chinese medicine, and are designed to stimulate the metabolism and digestion. Many of these teas use either green or oolong tea as a base, combined with diuretic and laxative herbs. Some of the teas may also contain stimulants, in addition to the caffeine in the tea leaves. Dieters should always consult with a physician before beginning a weight loss program.
Green and Oolong Tea
Green and oolong teas both come from the same plant, the Camellia senesis plant. The difference between the two varieties is the manufacturing process. Fresh tea is dried then allowed to ferment --- the longer it ferments, the darker the tea. Oolong tea is allowed to ferment longer than green tea. According to the Mayo clinic, tea contains the amino acid L-theanine. Tea also contains a supstance called Epigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG, which is believed to boost metabolism. Both green and oolong teas contain this element, but green tea has slightly more because it is less fermented.
Diuretics
Diuretics increase the frequency of urination to remove excess water from the body. In traditional Chinese medicine, several herbs have diuretic properties, according to Nan Lu and Ellen Schlapowsky, authors of "TCM: A Natural Guide to Weight Loss That Lasts." A Chinese diet tea could contain kochia seed, honey locust shine or plantain seed, all of which are native to Asia. Be aware, however, that overuse of diuretics may lead to dehydration. Always consult with a physician before incorporating diuretics as part of your weight loss program.
Laxatives
Laxatives aid elimination from the bowels by either bulking up the stool or adding moisture. Senna has common usage in traditional Chinese medicine, and is also used in over-the-counter laxatives, per Tom Williams, author of "Complete Illustrated Guide to Chinese Medicine: Using Traditional Chinese Medicine for Harmony of Mind and Body." Other Chinese laxatives include rhubarb root, dandelion and licorice root. According to Williams, overuse of laxatives may lead to laxative dependency --- in which the bowels are unable to function without the laxative. Always consult your physician before incorporating laxative products into your weight loss program.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the metabolism. Lu and Schlapowsky report that ginger, cayenne and garlic are all used as metabolism boosters in traditional Chinese medicine. Ginger has the added benefit of helping digestion and preventing abdominal cramping. Ginseng and kava-kava are also used as stimulants. Individuals with hypertension, heart disease and digestive problems should avoid herbal stimulants. Always consult your physician before incorporating stimulants into your weight loss program.
References
- Learn About Tea: Chinese Diet Tea
- MayoClinic.com: Green Tea
- "TCM: A Natural Guide to Weight Loss That Lasts (Traditional Chinese Medicine"; Nan Lu and Ellen Schaplowsky; 2000
- "Complete Illustrated Guide to Chinese Medicine: Using Traditional Chinese Medicine for Harmony of Mind and Body"; Tom Williams; 2003
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