The Health Benefits of White Tea

Move over green tea, white tea is the new kid on the block

White tea is the latest drink being hailed for its antioxidants and cancer-fighting properties

We all love a nice cup of tea, and if it’s good for you, even better!

Recently, white tea has been hailed for its anti-cancer properties. There have also been claims that white tea can thin the blood and improve artery function.

Made from young leaves and buds from the Camellia sinensis plant, white tea is the least processed form of tea.

White Tea’s Antioxidants

Although it is believed that white tea is lower in caffeine and higher in antioxidants than other types of tea (due to being minimally processed), research has shown that white tea is actually higher in caffeine than other teas and has a lower total antioxidant content than green tea.

Still, some research suggests that white tea may have greater potential than green tea in preventing small intestinal, colon and lung cancers, and may also protect against skin cancer, although further studies are needed.

Despite containing caffeine, white tea is a good hydrator and moderate to high consumption of any type of tea (three to six cups per day) may reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease.

Originally published in Wellness Matters, Canada Wide Media’s quarterly newsletter on health and wellness.