It was ancient Chinese herbalists who first appreciated the properties of tea. 5,000 years later, scientists are beginning to agree with them.

At Twinings, we've always known that our black teas, green teas and infusions made tea drinkers feel good. Now, growing research shows that drinking tea does contribute positively to a healthy lifestyle. A natural antioxidant, tea has been shown to help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and reduce cholesterol long term. And drinking moderate amounts of green tea can be helpful in preventing high blood pressure and protecting against bowel cancer. While "herbal" teas, such as camomile, can help with sleep and relaxation, aid in digestion and even relieve nausea and sickness.

Learn more about the health benefits of tea here.

Tea - what's in it for you?

For starters, black and green teas contain Vitamins A, B1, B2 and B6. They are also rich sources of potassium - vital for maintaining a normal heartbeat and regulating the fluid levels in cells - and manganese, which is essential for bone growth.

Then there are the flavonoids, naturally occurring antioxidants which studies show are a key to maintaining healthy cells. Although found in several kinds of plants, the highest content of flavonoids is actually found in black and green tea – a single cup has three times the amount of "antioxidant power" as an apple. In fact, drinking at least three cups every day for two weeks increases the number of flavonoids in the blood by 25%.

Tea and Wellness

So, what can you do to get the most out of your cup of tea?

Take a break

The time it takes to make and enjoy a cup of tea lets you unwind and put some distance between you and your task. No wonder tea breaks are such an enduring feature of working life. It's a reason to stop, stretch and stimulate the senses. You'll return relaxed, refreshed and ready to face whatever comes your way.

Stay hydrated

Contrary to popular belief, tea can be included in the recommended daily fluid allowance of at least 1.5 litres of water (about 50 ounces.) Its potassium even helps to maintain the body's fluid balance, and unlike most drinks, it can give your body a natural antioxidant boost.

Keep things light

Served on its own, tea contains no fat or calories. With skimmed milk, it's virtually fat-free.? However, when taken with milk, four cups a day can provide significant amounts of nutrients: 17% of the recommended daily intake for calcium, 5% of zinc, 22% of Vitamin B2, 5% of folic acid, as well as Vitamins B1 and B6.

Smile more

Tea is a natural source of fluoride, which helps make your teeth stronger. Studies have shown that people who regularly drink both black and/or green tea are less likely to suffer from dental cavities. The flavonoids in tea also help stop the growth of plaque bacteria and stop them sticking to the tooth's surface - helping to slow the development of gum disease and reduce bad breath.

Combat free radicals

Tea is an ideal source of antioxidants, which naturally help protect the body against the damaging effects of free radicals. A by-product of normal human biochemical processes, free radicals are highly reactive molecules generated via our metabolisms as a result of pollution, smoking and exposure to sunlight. They can cause damage to the cell wall and the genetic material within cells, and are known to play a significant role in the development of heart disease, strokes and cancer.

Discover healing herbals

Whether you're feeling sluggish or stressed, Twinings Herbals can help you unwind, relax, revive, or detox. Naturally caffeine free, low in calories and gluten-free, these refreshing infusions of fruits, flowers or herbs are perfect if you're cutting out caffeine or suffering from sleepless nights. Used in Chinese herbal remedies and homeopathic treatments for centuries, there's a type that's right for any mood, from relaxation to caffeine-free stimulation.

Go green

Twinings green tea, that is. First discovered in China over 5,000 years ago, green tea is said to have many health benefits, including lowering your cholesterol, boosting your immune system and helping to prevent cavities and tooth decay. As a natural source of vital antioxidants, it makes the perfect health conscious tipple - because there's no need to add milk or sugar, the tea is also virtually calorie free whilst still tasting great! We've even got an easy and sensible two-day teatox plan with green tea, created with the help of top nutritionist Kathryn Marsden.