Black tea is a special kind of tea, which is made from leaves of Camellia sinensis shrub. There are many stories, which refer to the invention of black tea and all of them say that the motherland of black tea is China. Sometimes it is called “red tea” (in China and other Asian countries) because of its liquid color. The name “black tea” refers in particular to the color of the oxidized leaves, from which it is made. In China this term is used for post-fermented teas. To the contrary of green tea, which retains its flavor for about a year, black tea keeps its wonderful aroma for several years. There are many health benefits of black tea.
As black tea contains caffeine and acts like antioxidant, it influences our thinking, alertness, protects against chronic diseases, boost out immune system, helps to lose weight, makes our skin look younger and affects our mood. It’s not the full list of black tea benefits. If you are fond of this beverage you must know that it helps to prevent and treat:
- heart attack;
- dizziness;
- headaches;
- low blood pressure;
- atherosclerosis;
- Parkinson’s disease;
- cancer;
- type 2 diabetes;
- kidney stones;
- diarrhea;
- vomiting;
- stress;
- arthritis;
- tooth decays.
Besides black tea health benefits, there also can be side effects. It is safe for adults in food amounts. More than five cups a day may lead to headache, dizziness, heartburn, vomiting, sleep problems, diarrhea, tremor, high blood pressure, confusion. Remember, that each organism reacts to caffeine in different ways. Drinking black tea in large amounts may cause dependence, so don’t think in this way: “The more I drink, the more benefits of black tea I’ll get”. Such theory doesn’t work. Before adding black tea to you every day dietary system, consult a doctor.