Drinking tea at least once a day regularly is good for your health, due to the antioxidants it contains and other components that allow for easy absorption of vitamins and minerals. Although it is not very popular, white tea is one of the healthiest because it has properties that regulate cholesterol, and take care of the skin and oral health, among others.
White tea is an infusion made from the ground dried leaves or buds of the Camellia Sinensis or Camellia Viridis shrub, which has historically grown wild in the Far East, although it is now cultivated in several countries. According to the Spanish Nutrition Foundation, this tea is distinguished because it uses the young leaves or new buds of the shrub, which have not been oxidized.
Green tea, black tea, and red tea also come from this plant, so their properties are very similar.
This tea is also called “the elixir of eternal youth” because its antioxidant properties, vitamins, and nutrients allow good health and prevent premature aging.
White tea originated in Fujian, China, in the Fuding and Zhendhe region where vigorous and resistant Camellia Sinensis shoots are produced that are ideal for this type of tea, says Eduardo López, naturopath.
“Unlike other traditional teas, white tea is distinguished because its leaves are not oxidized or rolled. In addition, it has a lighter, more floral, and pure flavor because it is the least processed and has the least caffeine,” she adds.
Properties of white tea
The active components of tea, in all its varieties, are flavonoids, a type of polyphenols that have very powerful antioxidant properties.
In addition, they contain no calories unless sugar or milk is added. Due to the tannins—natural antioxidants—they have a bitter taste and an astringent effect, says nutritionist Alejandra García.
Benefits of white tea
White tea has several properties that help maintain health, due to its antioxidant potential. Among the main benefits are:
- Helps regulate cholesterol and blood pressure
- It is an ally to lose weight
- It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Helps fight and prevent cancer
- Prevents cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks, heart failure, and thrombosis.
- Regulates diabetes
- Strengthens the immune system
- Take care of your oral health, because it inhibits oral bacteria and prevents cavities.
- Helps keep skin healthy and young
White tea and mint
White tea, due to its light flavor, can be combined with other plants to enhance its benefits. In this case, one of the most popular combinations is with mint, as it provides more refreshing and light characteristics to the flavor.
In addition, mint is carminative, which is why it is believed to have properties for eliminating gases and combating discomforts such as flatulence, bloating, and heaviness in the stomach. It has also been used for stomach and intestinal pain.
Experts say that combining white tea and mint could help improve digestion and gastric problems, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome.