What is green tea?
Although green tea has gained much popularity in the recent past, it was discovered almost 5,000 years ago in China , where it has long been used for its health benefits . Green tea, like any other cup of tea, comes from the Camellia Sinensis plant . What gives the infusion its unique color and taste is the fact that the tea is made from minimally processed and unfermented leaves . In addition, it is usually produced from plants grown at higher altitudes and is picked by hand to ensure that only the youngest leaves are harvested . Interestingly , the type of tea may vary depending on how it is processed . Sencha and Matcha are the two most popular types of green tea .
Where does the popularity of green tea come from?
Much of green tea's popularity has been built around its nutritional value . Many connoisseurs consider it the healthiest drink on earth ! Information about the health properties of green tea comes both from traditional sources , where it has been used in oriental medicine for years to treat diseases, and from scientific research . Most of the nutritional value in green tea can be attributed to the lack of extensive processing . For this reason, it has greater nutritional value compared to black tea.
What are the nutritional and health values of green tea?
- Rich in antioxidants - A category of flavonoids called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is responsible for the high antioxidant content of green tea. They help fight free radicals in the body , which in turn can help fight heart disease and cancer .
- Improves brain function - One of the basic ingredients of green tea is theine . Although it does not contain as much caffeine as coffee, it is enough to significantly stimulate brain activity . Many studies have shown that green tea helps improve attention , memory , mood , alertness , and reaction time . Additionally, evidence shows that the catechin compounds in green tea may help avoid the risk of Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease .
- Prevents the risk of type 2 diabetes - In recent years, diabetes has become a serious health problem for people of all ages due to constantly changing lifestyle and eating habits. Green tea helps avoid the risk of type 2 diabetes - which is the most common form of diabetes - by improving the body's sensitivity to insulin , which leads to improved blood sugar control .
- Promotes weight loss - Research shows that green tea helps burn fat - especially in the abdominal area - by improving metabolism . That's why the infusion is at the top of the list of fat-burning ingredients !
- Reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases - this mainly applies to heart diseases and strokes, which are very common causes of death around the world. According to research, green tea can help avoid the risk of cardiovascular disease by helping to lower bad cholesterol (LDL) levels .
How to brew green tea? Basilur Tea Master's Guide
Brewing green tea the right way is crucial so that you can enjoy its authentic taste and nutritional value .
To brew the perfect cup of loose leaf green tea :
- Measure one teaspoon of tea leaves (about 2 g) into a teapot for 180-200 ml of water.
- When the water boils (approximately 80°C/176°F), pour it into the pot and close the lid. If possible, place the leaves in an infuser that can be removed from the liquid after brewing the tea.
- Stir the tea after one minute , replace the lid and steep for another two minutes.
- Then lift the infuser or strain all the tea into cups or another heated pot to warm.
- If the tea is too strong for your taste , add more boiling water . Milk or sweetener are not recommended for green tea.
With its unique flavor and nutritional profile, green tea is a treat for any true tea lover . Drinking green tea regularly will definitely help you feel better and lead a healthier life !
