The various shades of tea to devour this winter

New Delhi: Waking up on a chilly morning to a hot cup of tea is therapeutic. Depending on the oxidation level, tea can be classified into five main types. Moreover, the less a tea is oxidized, the gentler and lighter it will be in taste and aroma.

For those who love their morning cuppa, here is a peek into the various shades of tea and the many reasons why this love affair should continue.

1. White Tea

White Tea is the least processed version of tea offering delicate flavours and aroma. It is rich in antibacterial properties and is instrumental in lowering cholesterol and blood pressure. Due to its low caffeine content, it is also the perfect choice for people wanting to cut down on their caffeine intake.

Moreover, due to a high phenol content, it strengthens elastin and collagen which helps in preventing wrinkles and aids acne treatment.

Weight loss tip: For people wanting to lose weight, a concoction of 1 teaspoon of white leaves, ½ teaspoon ginger powder and few drops of lemon juice, taken regularly for 15 days will show promising results.

Recommended dosage: 3-4 cups daily

2. Green Tea

Green Tea is high in anti-oxidants, and promotes a healthy cell growth. It also helps to reduce cholesterol. However, to get the maximum benefits from green tea, one should avoid adding milk, sugar, cream and even honey to it.

It is best to brew a spoonful of fresh tea leaves in boiling water and steep for 2-3 minutes before one drinks it.

Beauty benefits: When mixed with sugar, green tea can be used as a face scrub. It is also an excellent toner, which helps to open clogged pores. Green Tea is a good choice to reduce puffiness around the eyes and can be used as a hair rinse for healthy hair.

Recommended dosage: 2- 3 cups daily

3. Black Tea

Black tea is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and helps to reduce the risk of heart diseases.

It also lowers sugar levels in the body.

Beauty benefits: Ideal for people with oily skin, black tea helps to tighten pores, freshens up skin and gives one a natural, radiant glow. A secret recipe for a naturally toned and cellulite free body, is bathing with black tea twice a week.

4. Rooibos/Herbal Tea

Rooibos or Herbal tea is free from caffeine and low in tannin content.

It also has cancer fighting properties and is beneficial against skin allergies.

Beauty benefits: To use it as a natural mild cleanser, cool and apply the brewed tea on the skin. Dry for 10 minutes and rinse off. It reduces acne, scars, pimples, swelling and redness.

5. Oolong Tea

Oolong tea is rich in antioxidants. It is also a good source of calcium, manganese, potassium, copper and selenium.

The tea is also instrumental in weight management and controlling tooth decay.

Beauty benefits: Oolong Tea keeps skin healthy and clearer. For those suffering from eczema, or just want a brighter, younger looking skin, 2-3 cups of Oolong tea is highly recommended. It diminishes dark spots, age spots and wrinkles. It is also an effective sunscreen and toner.