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10 types of flavoured green tea that have 20 health benefits

10 types of flavoured green tea that have 20 health benefits

The many flavours of green tea, here's how to pick the one best suited for you.

Written by Tania Tarafdar |Published : December 3, 2014 1:57 PM IST

We all know that there are several health benefits associated with green tea. There are different types of green teas available, which have different flavours and varying ranges of caffeine in them. To decide which green tea tastes best is a matter of personal choice. However, you can always go for green tea blends with herbs and spices like ginger, cardamom, black pepper and cinnamon for maximum health benefits. Below are 10 best types of green tea you can choose from. All these flavours can easily be ordered online.

Jasmine green tea

Jasmine is a light taste beverage that is free of calories and also very nutrient-rich. It contains a compound called EGCG that is found helpful in cancer prevention. The antioxidant catechin in the tea has the potential to neutralise the free radicals in the body that can damage the DNA and cause cancer. It is also associated for reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. Besides, jasmine green tea can also soothe your senses with its fragrant flavour. If you are looking for jasmine green tea you can go for brands like Tulsi and Twinings.

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Moroccan mint green tea

Moroccan mint green tea is a delicious beverage enjoyed daily by the people of Morocco. It is naturally low in calories and is made from fresh or dried tea leaves. It is prepared by steeping green tea with spearmint leaves. The tea acts as a sedative and has calming properties. The mint can help relieve symptoms of indigestion and heartburn[1]. Sipping the tea can also relieve congestion and headaches. The tea is filled with vitamins which are essential for maintaining many biological functions. Read how to make green tea in 6 healthy ways.

Dragonwell green tea

Dragonwell green tea is one of the best and most famous Chinese green tea. It appears smooth and has a very refreshing taste. The tea can boost metabolism and help burn fat which can aid in weight loss. The antioxidants found in the tea can lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure and reduce the chances of getting flu and other bacterial and viral infections[2]. Adding honey to green tea can provide you some relief if you are suffering from flu and cold.

Gyukuro green tea

This variety of green tea is traditionally grown and harvested in Japan. Gyukoro has very small tea leaves, which are green in colour. The tea is very healthy and can be used in the treatment of several diseases. One of the many significant health benefits of the tea is that it contains a polyphenol that has the potential to prevent cancer. It may also lower your risk of heart disease and lessen the chances of diabetes by keeping your blood glucose level in a healthy range. Gyukoro is available in stores in the form of loose dried leaves. Gyukoro green tea contains some amount of caffeine, hence avoid it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also read 6 side effects of green tea you should know about.

Genmaicha green tea

The pleasant flavoured Japanese Genmaicha tea is mixed with brown rice kernels. Due to the many polyphenols, such as catechins and gallic acid, as well as other antioxidants like carotenoids and ascorbic acid present in the tea, regularly drinking it can prevent many diseases. It is shown to help lower high blood pressure. The tea is also helpful in lowering the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Read how drinking green tea can keep heart diseases at bay. You can easily find organic genmaicha tea in general stores.

Kukicha green tea

Kukicha green tea is a Japanese tea made from the twigs and stems of the tea plant. It contains very low caffeine and has high alkalizing properties. Consuming a beverage low in caffeine can stave off many conditions such as acidity, anxiety and insomnia[3]. The tea is also rich in vitamins and minerals and contains more calcium than a glass of milk. It can be consumed hot or cold and can be a good option for breakfast as it helps in promoting energy and vitality.

Sencha green tea

Sencha green tea is a high-quality flavoured tea of Japan which undergoes minimal processing. It contains high levels of antioxidants that protect the cells and tissues of the body from free radical damage. The tea is also helpful in controlling blood sugar levels and fighting heart diseases. Sencha s refreshing flavour can also help keep away bad breath[4]. You can also go for the cardamom green tea blend to do away with bad breath. You may want to know 9 ways to lose bad breath naturally.

Matcha green tea

Matcha tea is formed by grinding green tea leaves into a fine powder. Consuming matcha can be a healthier choice than other green teas brewed from tea leaves. It is packed with antioxidants and other minerals and can leave us feeling and looking healthy. The amino acid L-thianine in is known to soothe your senses and relax your mind. The tea is rich in chlorophyll which has good detoxifying properties. Adding cardamom to the green tea powder can also help in eliminating worms from your intestine.

Houjicha green tea

Houjicha tea leaves are rich brown in colour and have a flaky appearance. It can be an excellent choice for those who are looking for a low-caffeine beverage. You can drink Houjicha tea before going to bed instead of other varieties of tea or coffee for a calm and deep sleep. Besides, it has good antibacterial and antiviral properties and also provides protection against cardiovascular diseases. Organic houjicha can be ordered from Amazon.

Bancha green tea

Bancha green tea has a unique flavour and is very easy to brew. It contains very little proportion of caffeine and is rich in polyphenols like catechins. The tea can improve your mental alertness due to the high levels of caffeine[5]. It can help control common oral infections like cavities. Adding black pepper to green tea can help you bolster your immunity and keep infections at bay.

Tips to keep in mind

  • Always prefer brewed green tea over bottled one as it will contain more antioxidants.
  • Conventional tea might include pesticide residues, therefore, it is always best to choose an organic one.
  • Decaffeinated tea contains lower amounts of beneficial antioxidants. If you don t want the extra dose of caffeine, you can go for teas, such as houjicha and bancha. You may want to read 6 side-effects of green tea.

Image source: Getty Images


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References:

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[4]Taylor, P. W., Hamilton-Miller, J. M. T., & Stapleton, P. D. (2005). Antimicrobial properties of green tea catechins. Food Science and Technology Bulletin, 2, 71 81.

[5]Lara DR. Caffeine, mental health, and psychiatric disorders. J Alzheimers Dis.2010;20 Suppl 1:S239-48. doi: 10.3233/JAD-2010-1378. Review. PubMed PMID: