Camellia Sinensis
There are five significant components found in all tea from the plant Camellia Sinensis:
Essential Oils: which are the source of tea’s delicious flavor and aroma;
Polyphenols: which are antioxidants that provide the tea’s brisk flavor and many of its potential health benefits;
Phytonutrients: which are small amounts of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids including L-theanine (a very rare molecule that has been found in only three sources including Camellia Sinensis);
Enzymes: which are biological catalysts, mainly proteins generated by an organism to speed up chemical reactions to keep the body alive;
Methylxanthines: which are a family of alkaloids that include caffeine.
Each of these components work differently in the human body and a full description is best left to a medical journal. However, recent research exploring the potential health attributes of tea is leading many scientists to agree that tea, both green and black, may contribute positively to a healthy lifestyle.