Black tea: a health miracle
A ritual that doubles as a daily mini wellness program: there are excellent health reasons for the British tradition of afternoon tea, as a US study shows.
The substance theaflavin 3,3′-digallate (TF3) contained in black tea prevents staphylococcus bacteria from destroying red blood cells; it inhibits the activity of α-hemolysin, a powerful cell toxin produced by staphylococcus. TF3 also protects the skin and the epithelial barrier, the layers of cells that prevent harmful substances and pathogens from entering the body.
In addition, black tea—especially Assam and Darjeeling—contains tannins that have a calming effect on the stomach, stimulate fat digestion, and flatten blood sugar spikes after meals
And it has anti-inflammatory properties. This is because tea is rich in catechins, theaflavins, and polyphenols, which act as antioxidants. They neutralize free radicals, protect the inner walls of blood vessels, and help prevent cardiovascular disease.
Drinking more than three cups a day reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke by up to 20%.
But that’s not all: tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes the release of alpha brain waves, thus inducing a state of calm alertness, concentration, and serenity. Not to mention the psychological and social aspects. “Tea time” is actually a porcelain-based mindfulness exercise — a ritualized way of slowing down.
It forces you to take a meditative break, to slow down. And it brings people together: family, colleagues, friends—you talk, laugh, and exchange ideas.
Medical conclusion: From a medical point of view, British tea time is a combination of mild stimulants, antioxidant treatment, mindfulness training, and social therapy. True to the saying:
“A cup of tea might be the answer to everything – and sometimes, it really is.”
More details here »https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0290904 summary here » https://www.dr-rath-foundation.org/2023/09/dr-raths-research-reveals-amazing-benefits-of-black-tea/
