Benefits Of Jasmine Tea

Jasmine tea was once a popular tea for tea ceremonies in China, because it was believed to have spiritual properties. Whether or not jasmine tea has higher powers is open to debate, but the health benefits of this scented tea aren't. Discover the amazing health properties of this special blend of tea that smells as ethereal as it tastes.

What is Jasmine Tea?

Jasmine tea is made from tiny petals of the jasmine flower that areblended with green tea, although white and oolong tea can also be used to make jasmine tea. Green, white and, to a lesser extent, oolong tea are all good sources of antioxidants called catechins, natural compounds that may lower the risk of some diseases including heart disease and some types of cancer.

Combine the leaves from the Camellia sinensis plant with the delicate petals from the jasmine plant and the health benefits multiply. The leaves from the tea plant absorb the essence of the fragrant jasmine petals when they're placed into special machines to meld. Then the jasmine petals can be discarded - but their flavor and health benefits are forever imprinted on the tea leaves.

What Are the Health Benefits of Jasmine Tea?

Jasmine tea has a calming, almost sedative-like effect on those who drink it. In a study published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology, sipping jasmine tea lowered the heart rates of volunteers who sipped it and made them feel more calm and peaceful. In this fast-paced world, most people can benefit from a cup of this calming brew.

The health benefits of jasmine tea extend beyond making a person feel more sedate. According to a study published in the Journal of Food Protection, extract of jasmine tea helps to fight off bacteria that cause food poisoning. In hamsters, green tea catechins from jasmine green tea lowered triglyceride and cholesterol levels when the animals ate a high-fat diet. Can they do the same in humans? Hopefully, future research will reveal whether jasmine tea can help ward off the negative effects of the high-fat American diet.

Some experts have surmised that the health benefits of jasmine tea extend to preventing cancer. This hasn't been proven yet, and when you sip jasmine tea make sure it's not steaming hot. A study of jasmine tea drinkers in China showed that the thermal effects of drinking very hot tea increases the risk of cancer of the esophagus and stomach.

The Bottom Line?

The health benefits of jasmine tea make it a smart choice for sipping, especially if you're anxious or stressed. With its calming effect on the psyche, it's not surprising that tea drinkers call it "heavenly". Sip it in good taste - and good health.

About the Author:
Cinergy Health & Life Insurance Agency is dedicated to providing quality health and life insurance plans for people in a variety of life situations. For more information on a selection of health and insurance topics, visit the Cinergy Health & Life Learning Center at http://www.cinergyhealth.com.

Benefits Of Jasmine Tea

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