White tea comes from the Camellia sinensis(or tea) plant and happens to be the least processed type of tea. It is also the least strong in flavor.
The very delicate white tea is produced by picking the buds and leaves of the tea plant before they are fully open. It has been named white tea because the buds have tiny white hair on them at the time of picking.
The history of white tea goes back to the Song Dynasty (960-1279 CE). It was then considered a luxury item and given as a form of tribute to the emperor of China.
In today’s time, there are several varieties of white tea, including silver needle, white peony, Ceylon white, Darjeeling white, and white pu-erh.
Chinese people have used white tea for centuries for various medicinal purposes. It is full of antioxidants that are accompanied with multiple health benefits.
Here are a few benefits of this delicate beverage:
Lowers risk of cancer
According to many test tube studies, white tea has anti-cancer effects. One study discovered that it could destroy different types of lung cancer cells. Another study found that white tea could also stop the growth and spread of colon cancer cells.
Rich in antioxidants
White tea is loaded with a type of polyphenols called catechins. For the unversed, polyphenols are plant-based molecules that act as antioxidants inside the body. These antioxidants then protect the cells from damage by compounds called free radicals.
Even though too much free-radical damage can have harmful effects on the body, white tea seems to be one of the best types of teas for fighting free radicals.
Prevents skin from aging
White tea helps slow skin aging both outside and inside the body. According to a study, white tea applied to the skin helps to protect it from UV damage. Many other studies highlight that the polyphenols in white tea slows premature aging.
