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CAMELLIA SINENSIS

TEA

Tea is the beverage made when the processed leaves of the tea plant are infused with boiling water. Native to Southeast Asia, the tea plant is a small, shrub-like, evergreen tree that belongs to the family Theaceae, its seeds contain a volatile oil, and its leaves contain the chemicals caffeine and tannin.

USES

 The fluoride in tea may be beneficial in preventing dental caries.

 Tea may help in the treatment of diarrhea, dysentery, hepatitis, and gastroenteritis.

 The flavonoids contained in tea may destroy harmful bacteria and viruses.

 Cold, steeped tea bags placed over the eyes will soothe soreness and irritation. Tea’s astringent properties also make tea bags useful for treating minor injuries and insect bites.

 The leaves of green and black tea may be beneficial in the prevention of heart disease and stroke.

PROPERTIES

 Provides folic acid (vitamin B9), some potassium, and also magnesium

 Contains fluoride (a trace)

 Acts on the nervous system to control the respiratory and digestive systems

 Diuretic and astringent

 Antioxidants called polyphenols have beneficial effects on the circulatory system, while flavonoids act on the immune system

CAUTION

Tea can interfere with the effectiveness of drugs such as allopurinol (for the treatment of gout), antibiotics, antiulcer drugs, and the drug theophylkline, prescribed for asthma. It can prevent the absorption of iron and interfere with the effectiveness of sedative drugs. Drinking tea to excess can cause constipation, indigestion, dizziness, palpitations, irritability, and insomnia.