All tea comes from one species of plant, Camellia sinensis. Differences in teas stem from the location, variety, seasons and fermentation process. Fermentation of tea refers to the length of time the harvested tea leaves are left to dry. The longer the drying process, the more bitter the tea. Green tea is an unfermented tea, retaining most of its flavor and beneficial properties.
Antioxidant Properties
Green tea contains vitamins C and E, fluoride, potassium, calcium, zinc and caffeine. It also has the most antioxidants of any tea. These antioxidants fight free radicals, particles produced in the body that may cause some diseases and contribute to aging. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, antioxidants may also prevent some of the damaging effects of free radicals. Loose green tea tends to be a better grade of green tea, with higher concentrations of antioxidants and more of the health benefits.
Weight Loss
The type of antioxidants in green tea are called polyphenols. Polyphenols may cause an increase in metabolism and a fat-burning effect, explains the UMMC. It cites a study that shows green tea, combined with caffeine, helps with taking off the pounds and keeping them off. The catechin compounds in the polyphenols are thought to be the cause for the boost in metabolism.
Cancer
Among the many diseases and conditions that loose green tea may positively effect -- including high cholesterol, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes and atherosclerosis -- the anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties of green tea may also help prevent against cancer. UMMC states the polyphenols in the tea kill cancer cells and prevent them from spreading. Cancers that may be helped by drinking green tea include bladder, breast, ovarian, esophageal, pancreatic, prostate, skin and stomach cancer.
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