White Tea Health Benefits

by Kara Sibilia

Overview

According to the Tea Association of the USA, white tea is produced from young buds of the tea bush, grown exclusively in the Fujian Province of China. It is called "white" because of the silver-to-white hairs on the bud.
Features

White tea is minimally processed, so it is believed to contain the most nutrients of all teas. White contains antioxidants known to fight aging, cancer and infection.

Anti-Aging & Anti-Inflammatory

A study from Kingston University, London, shows that white tea has high anti-aging potential and anti-inflammatory properties; both may help reduce the risk of wrinkles, rheumatoid arthritis and certain cancers.
Cancer-Fighting

Researchers from Oregon State University found that consumption of white tea inhibits cancer-cell growth. The study also noted that routine consumption of green or white teas could be especially effective in combination with NSAIDs, and provide more cancer protection than either of the products separately.
Infection-fighting

A 2004 Pace University study indicates that white tea extract (WTE) may inactivate viruses and destroy bacteria that cause streptococcus infections such as strep throat, pneumonia and cavities in teeth.
Additional Health Benefits

White tea shows promise in treating other health ailments including heart disease, cholesterol, blood pressure, diabetes, obesity and osteoporosis, but more research needs to be done to prove the effects.
Brewing White Tea

White tea is most beneficial when brewed loose-leaf, rather than bagged. Brew the tea 3 to 5 minutes in very hot water (not boiling) and drink two to four cups a day to reap the maximum benefits.