The Origins of Green Tea
Ancient China is the home of green tea though it is still debated if it was discovered by Shen Nong during 2737 BC when he was boiling water for tea and leaves from a wild tea plant floated into his pot. The elixir turned out to be refreshing and healing. Over the years’ green tea gained popularity in China and monks started using it for meditation, aiding and enhancing their focus, it became a crucial part of the culture.
Around 8th century Buddhist monks from Japan started visiting China for education; they brought the first green tea and its consumption and cultivation was refined in Japan. Japan introduced matcha and other forms of drinking green tea that would turn into a trend over time. The green tea trade expanded and was taken to other continents like Europe and India where green tea today remains a crucial part of drinking culture intertwined with health.
Why is Green Tea Beneficial?
Around the world, green tea is lauded as an important diet additive and its benefits are endorsed by scientific research. As a nutritionist, Dr. Christopher Ochner of the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai calls Green Tea, “the healthiest thing I can think of to drink.” It has been shown green tea is helpful for brain metabolism, heart, and muscle health.
Health Benefits of Green Tea
Green tea is packed with antioxidants, particularly catechins, which contribute to its health-enhancing properties. Some of the key benefits include:
- Boosts Metabolism & Aids Weight Loss – A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that green tea extract can increase fat oxidation by 17% and boost metabolism.
- Rich in Antioxidants – The high antioxidant content helps combat free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and promoting overall health.
- Supports Heart Health – Research from Harvard Medical School suggests that regular consumption of green tea may lower LDL cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Enhances Brain Function – The combination of caffeine and L-theanine in green tea provides a mild stimulant effect, improving focus and alertness.
- Strengthens Immunity – Green tea contains polyphenols and flavonoids that help boost the immune system.
- Detoxifies the Body – Green tea aids in flushing out toxins and improving digestion.
The Right Time to Have Green Tea
To maximise the benefits of green tea, timing is crucial. Here’s when you should drink it:
- First thing in the Morning – Drinking green tea in the morning can kick-start metabolism and provide a gentle caffeine lift without the jitters of coffee.
- Good as a Pre-Workout Drink – Green tea can enhance fat-burning and improve endurance when consumed 30-45 minutes before exercise.
- Once between meals – Sipping green tea between meals helps in digestion and nutrient absorption while keeping you hydrated.
- Late evening energy boost – A cup of green tea in the afternoon can provide a natural energy boost and help combat midday fatigue.
- Never before Bedtime – Since green tea contains caffeine, drinking it late at night may disrupt sleep.
How to make the Perfect Green Tea?
To gain maximum benefits of green tea, it is important to prepare it correctly. Here are some expert tips:
- The Right Temperature – Avoid using boiling water; instead, use water at around 80°C to 85°C to prevent bitterness.
- The Right Time – Let the tea steep for 2-3 minutes to get the perfect balance of flavour and health benefits.
- The Right Enhancements – Enhance your green tea with ingredients like honey, lemon, or ginger for added taste and benefits.
- The Right Varieties – Experiment with different types of green tea to find the one that suits your palate.
Famous Brand Contribution to India’s Green Tea Movement
Among the many brands contributing to this growing trend, Roastea has carved a niche with its premium range of green teas. From classic green tea to infused blends like Tulsi Green Tea and Honey Lemon Green Tea, Roastea offers a diverse selection that is being widely accepted across India. Their Roastea Kaawah, a traditional Kashmiri kawaah blend, is particularly gaining popularity for its rich flavours and health benefits. You can purchase their Green tea online through the website.
What to Look for When Buying Green Tea?
With a wide variety of green tea options available, selecting the right one can be overwhelming. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Check the Ingredients – Opt for pure green tea with minimal additives. Avoid teas with artificial flavouring or excessive sweeteners.
- Look for Whole Leaves – Loose-leaf green tea retains more nutrients and flavour compared to tea bags, which often contain broken leaves or dust.
- Check the Source – Green tea from reputable regions such as China, Japan, or India tends to be of higher quality. Look for brands that mention their sourcing details.
- Freshness Matters – Green tea loses its potency over time. Check the packaging date and opt for recently harvested batches.
Final Thoughts
Green tea is more than just a beverage—it’s a lifestyle choice that promotes overall well-being. With extensive scientific research backing its benefits and increasing global acceptance, green tea remains one of the best natural drinks for health-conscious individuals. Whether you are sipping a traditional brew or trying an innovative blend, green tea offers a refreshing and nutritious experience that caters to everyone.
What’s your favourite way to enjoy green tea? Share your thoughts in the comments!