The secret power of tea is in the leaves

A cup of tea can do more than warm you up on a chilly day or help you fall asleep. Science says brewing a cup of green, black, oolong and white tea can help ease inflammation and tame symptoms of arthritis like pain and swollen joints.

The secret power of tea is hidden in polyphenols, plant-derived compounds that rev up the immune system, and in addition to studies saying they may cut the chances of heart disease and cancer, may also protect against arthritis. Experts say tea boosts your body’s T cells’ ability to react against bacterial and viral infections. And while that can help you fend off colds and flu, rheumatologists theorize this effect is an added bonus for people with rheumatoid arthritis taking immunosuppressive medications that make them more susceptible to infection.

In addition to tea boosting the immune system, studies shows tea also has anti-inflammatory action. A Case Western Reserve University study says EGCG, a substance in green tea, halts arthritis development and progression by blocking Interleukin-1, a pro-inflammatory cell, from damaging cartilage.

Choosing a tea

While their tastes vary greatly, green, black, oolong and white teas come from the same plant, Camellia sinensis, a white-flowering shrub that’s part of the evergreen family.

The taste differences are the result of the buds’ processing. Buds are fermented to produce black tea. Green and white teas, which are thought to have the highest polyphenol levels, are less processed.

To consume as many polyphenols as possible, steep your tea bag or loose tea in boiled water for 5 minutes. Then, sip it (once cooled to a comfortable temperature) with your favorite condiments like honey or lemon.

Worried a cup of comfort might keep you up at night?

Opting for decaf versions of the teas doesn’t decrease the amount of polyphenols.

Just don’t expect the effect to last for days. Your blood polyphenol blood levels will start to drop about two hours after your last sip of tea.

To learn more on this topic:
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