A: People around the globe have been drinking tea for 4,000
years to enjoy its incomparable taste and health benefits. The second most
widely consumed beverage in the world after water, this humble elixir is highly
esteemed because it’s so incredibly versatile. There are over 1,500 types
of tea—not including herbal teas. You can drink it hot, iced or at room
temperature, and it's healing properties from soothing an upset stomach to
strengthening your immune system are legendary.
In fact, current scientific research suggests tea can fight diseases and even lengthen life. This is due to tea's high concentration of antioxidants called polyphenols, which may contribute to the prevention of cancer, osteoporosis and cardiovascular diseases. While polyphenols are also found in abundance in fruits, vegetables and grains, tea is uniquely rich in catechins (specifically, Epigallocatechin gallate [EGCG]), the most potent of all polyphenols.