With origins beginning from over 2000 years ago, green tea has been consumed most commonly in China and India, only recently taking Singapore by storm. Green tea has since then been all the rage, with green tea desserts and beverages popping up at every corner. Why exactly is there such a craze over green tea, and why do consumers choose organic green tea over flower tea, such as chamomile tea?

Green tea has been touted to be the healthiest beverage in the world, as it is loaded with nutrients and antioxidants that have immensely powerful effects on our body. So go ahead, pour yourself a cup of quality tea that fights everything from acne to cancer, and read on to find out more about the benefits of green tea.

1. Lowers cholesterol

Green tea contains a large amount of flavonoids and antioxidants which help to slow down the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, prevents blood clots, and improves the function of blood vessels -  a few of the many key factors that cause heart disease. It has been reported that consumers of organic green tea have up to 31% lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

2. Aids in cancer prevention

Green tea is not processed as much as compared to organic black tea - organic black tea undergoes fermentation and processing, while green tea is unprocessed and thus retains its color.

Oxidative damage to cells plays a part in the development of cancer; luckily, green tea contains a substantial amount of protective polyphenols due to its lack of processing. One of the polyphenols, catechin, functions as an antioxidant and has been found to protect DNA in cells from cancer-inducing changes.

3. Lowers risk of Type II Diabetes

Type II diabetes involves cells being resistant to insulin - which converts glucose into energy to be used by the body - and therefore results in high blood sugar levels. However, studies have shown that with the regular consumption of green tea, the insulin sensitivity of cells can be improved, thereby reducing blood sugar levels.

4. Promotes relaxation

Sipping on organic green tea can help to reduce stress, with the help of a natural chemical in green tea called theanine which produces a soothing effect on your mind. When you’re feeling a little stressed, turn to a cup of quality tea and a book for some rest and relaxation.

5. Aids in weight loss

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Green tea speeds up our body’s metabolism rate, increasing the rate of fat oxidation using the polyphenols naturally occurring in green tea. While it might aid in weight loss, it only helps in a small, non-significant amount - regular exercise is still needed to promote significant weight loss.

6. Enhances cognitive functions

Organic green tea contains caffeine and L-theanine, which significantly boosts alertness and the brain’s cognitive functions, especially memory.

7. Supports detoxification of the body

With the recent craze of ‘teatox’ - the act of detoxification using tea - on social media, many people have turned to power teas sold online to aid them in losing weight. However, organic green tea on its own is a powerful form of teatox - green tea is packed to the brim with polyphenols that support the body’s usual detox system. Green tea also supports liver detoxification by increasing enzyme activity in the liver, and supplies antioxidants required to neutralize free radicals. Turn to a reliable cup of green tea for your ‘teatox’, instead of spending money on purchasing pre-made ones online!  

8. Improves dental health

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Catechins in green tea also help to kill bacteria in our mouth and prevent plaque formation, lowering the risk of cavities and promoting dental health. Studies have also proven that green tea can help to eliminate bad breath!

9. Eliminates acne

The high levels of antioxidant and antimicrobial compounds found in green tea helps in reducing acne - simply use cooled green tea as a face wash or lay the tea bag on your face as a compress.

10. Prevent inflammation

Green tea is also rich in flavonoids, which are chemicals naturally found in plants that protect the body against inflammation. This protects the body against allergies such as sinuses.

With all the benefits that come with green tea, it is also important to note that a little goes a long way - overdosing on green tea might not be the best solution to achieving the aforementioned benefits. Sticking to one or two cups of day will do the trick.

If you’re interested in other quality tea such as flower tea or organic black tea, do check out Nilufer Tea.