Tea is the one of the most popularly consumed beverages in the world. There are a variety of teas including oolong tea, which is also known as Wu Long or brown tea. The Mayo Clinic notes that this type of tea is cultivated from the Camellia sinus plant and made from a process that differs from that of green and black tea. First introduced to the West from China in the 19th century, oolong tea has gained popularity for its many alternative medicinal and nutritional benefits. When taken in the recommended doses, this herb tea is said not to cause side effects and is available without caffeine. However, always consult your physician before taking any herbal supplement.
Weight Loss
Oolong tea is a natural and gentle remedy for weight loss. According to the site "Oolong Tea Facts" this tea may help to promote weight loss by increasing the metabolism of the body. This occurs because oolong tea contains enzymes that facilitate stored fat metabolism in the body. Caffeine in the tea also facilitates thermogenesis or burning of dietary carbohydrates for fuel. Additionally, oolong tea may help weight loss by calming the nervous system to decrease anxiety, which can lead to over-eating in some cases. Elevated fat burning with the use of oolong tea also helps to decrease dyslipidemia or high cholesterol levels in the blood.
Dental Health
Drinking oolong tea can have the additional benefits of fighting tooth decay and preventing cavities. Research conducted by the Department of Dentistry at Japan's Osaka University and published in the medical journal "Caries Research," found that the high concentration of antioxidants called polyphenols in oolong tea can help to improve dental health and hygiene. One to two cups of oolong tea should be consumed per day for this beneficial effect.
Skin Health
The powerful antioxidants in oolong tea also benefit the skin in several ways. These compounds help to remove harmful toxins in the body that damage the skin, causing wrinkles, lines, age spots, sallowness and slowed exfoliation. Oolong tea may also protect the skin from sun and cigarette smoking damage and reduce the risk of allergic skin reactions such as atopic dermatitis.
Disease Prevention
The Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University notes that oolong tea is less oxidized than black tea and hence contains higher concentrations of potent antioxidants called polyphenols. It also contains vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, calcium, potassium, selenium, fluorine, magnesium and phosphorus. These nutrients help to detoxify the body, improve digestion and decrease the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes.
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