BLACK TEA AND HUMAN HEALTH
----- Dr Subhasish Sannigrahi
Tea is one of the most ancient and popular beverages consumed around the world. Black tea is
more widely consumed than green tea worldwide. India is the largest producer of black tea and
hence it is necessary to focus attention on black tea with respect to its health promoting
attributes.
What is Black tea ? Black Tea is more oxidized than green tea The black tea making process
involves an additional step of aeration of the cut, withering leaves for several hours which
oxidizes the flavonoids as well as darkening the leaves' colour.
Health benefits
Until recently, tea research has focused more on green tea. However, recent studies indicate the
compounds contained in black tea - theaflavins and thearubigens – not only contribute to the
dark color and distinctive flavor but they represent potential molecules with therapeutic
implication.
Polyphenolic compounds present in black tea can protect cells and tissues from oxidative stress
by scavenging free radicals. Synergistic interactions amongst black tea constituents play a major
role in the beneficial effect of tea. Number of studies with black tea have demonstrated that
plasma antioxidant capacity gets enhanced, ∼1 h after consumption of moderate amounts of tea.
Neurological disease
Reports suggest that Black tea could lower the incidence of Parkinsons disease, Theanine present
in black tea increases alpha brain wave activity resulting in calmer state of mind and it also
reduces stress.
Diabetes
Tea consumption is said to be associated with reduced risk of type 2 diabetes It may blunt the
spike in sugar level after the meal.
Cardiovascular disease Black tea is said to reduce the risk of heart problems by cutting levels
of bad cholesterol and blood sugar. Studies have shown that there is risk reduction of coronary
heart disease at intakes > 3 cups tea per day.
Cancer
Studies suggest that Tea polyphenolics inhibit tumor cell proliferation. In addition, tea
polyphenols may protect against damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) B radiation. Theaflavin and
catechins modulate immune system function..
Osteoporosis Studies suggest that tea may positively influence bone mineral density (BMD) and
that tea drinking may protect against osteoporosis in older women.
Gastric ulcer
Tea does not cause acidity . Studies have revealed it reduces the incidence of ulcer, in
experimental animals .
Anti HIV agent