All black, oolong, and green teas come from an evergreen shrub called “camellia sinensis”. The kind of tea that is produced depends on the manner in which the leaves are processed. (Southern iced tea is usually of the black variety.) All three types are useful in the treatment of asthma, fatigue, insect bites, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diarrhea, food poisoning, hangovers, sore throats, and certain cancers.

Green tea is produced from young, fresh leaves and buds that are cooked and then dried. Green tea is rich in fluoride. Green tea boosts immunity, reduces tooth decay, fights bacterial infections, stimulates digestion, increases urine flow, and contains 200 times more antioxidants than vitamin E.

Green tea is known to fight skin, lung, esophageal, and stomach cancers. Green tea contains higher levels of flavonoids and vitamins than the other types of teas. Green tea is recommended for asthma and coughs due to colds. It is also useful when fasting and when dieting. Studies show that regular consumption of green tea promotes clear thinking.

Oolong tea is produced from fresh leaves that are wilted in the sunlight, slightly bruised, and partly fermented. Oolong tea helps reduce cholesterol levels and should be consumed immediately after fatty meals for best results.

Black tea is fully fermented. Rich in antioxidants and tannins, black tea is highly astringent. It is a good remedy for diarrhea and can stop bleeding when applied to a wound. Use a cool tea bag and press gently for thirty minutes or until bleeding stops.

Both green and black teas contain enzymes that help the body excrete toxins. They contain polyphenols and other anti-aging properties. Tea is a great addition to the diet especially after a long illness or anytime the body needs to be cleansed.

All types of tea help combat fatigue, clear the mind, and protect against pollution. Tea is beneficial to the digestion and the nervous system. Tea stabilizes blood lipids, lowers blood pressure, and fights other diseases like hardening of the arteries.

Tea is available under many brand names and types. Brancha Leaf Green tea is highly therapeutic. Kukicha Twig tea contains less caffeine and has a roasted mellow flavor. Darjeeling tea is a delicate black tea from India. Earl Grey tea is black tea sprayed with bergamot orange oil. English breakfast tea is a rich, mellow, black tea. Ceylon tea has an intense flowery aroma and flavor. White tea is basically the same as green tea but with even less processing.

Tea is native to the tropics and grows from sea level up to 8000 feet. Leaves can be harvested every 6-14 days depending on the area and climate. A tea plant will yield for 25-50 years.

* All types of tea contain caffeine. Do not drink large amounts when pregnant and avoid if you have ulcers or irregular heartbeat. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedy especially if pregnant, nursing, or taking other medicines.