5 Types of Tea For Boosting the Immune System

● Matcha and green tea are used as a tea for boosting the immune system and come from the same plant species, Camellia sinensis. However, they differ in processing and consumption methods, giving rise to unique characteristics and flavors.

● Matcha is a more concentrated form of green tea, as the leaves are ground into a fine powder, which allows you to consume the whole leaf. This may offer you more health benefits compared to regular tea.

● Matcha generally contains higher levels of caffeine and higher concentrations of certain antioxidants, such as EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) compared to green tea.

● Whereas, green tea is made from leaves that are steamed, rolled and dried and is typically brewed by steeping the whole or crushed tea leaves in hot water and then discarding the leaves before drinking. Matcha, however, involves whisking the powdered tea with hot water or milk, allowing you to consume the entire leaf, which results in a stronger flavor and thicker texture.

Yes, tea to boost the immune system contains several nutrients, antioxidants, and bioactive compounds that may enhance immunity and support overall immune function. The bioactive compounds present can boost your immune system, fight off inflammation, promote cardiovascular health and even prevent the development of certain cancers.

They have polyphenols, including flavonoids and catechins, such as EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that enhance immune function by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Some of them also have vitamins C and, E which are also potent antioxidants. Green tea and black tea, contain quercetin, a flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-

inflammatory properties. Quercetin may help regulate the immune system and reduce the risk of infections.

Immunity Tea helps to soothe a sore throat and provides immediate relief from coughing and mucus buildup. Drinking warm tea can help keep you hydrated and soothe a sore throat or dry mouth.

● Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It may help to soothe an irritated throat and airways caused by coughing.

● Herbal teas like chamomile, ginger, peppermint, and liquorice can have soothing effects on the digestive system, reduce nausea and alleviate stomach discomfort.

● Some herbal teas, such as echinacea and elderberry, have antimicrobial properties that may help combat certain infections and shorten the duration of illness.

However, it is crucial to understand, that while tea offers certain benefits, it's not a cure-all for illnesses and is never a substitute for medication or proper treatment by healthcare providers.

Although herbal preparations are marketed as natural products, they may cause various toxic effects. Ingestion of some herbal products may cause a wide spectrum of adverse effects ranging from mild allergic or mild gastrointestinal events to life-threatening complications, and even prove to be fatal in some cases.

● In a case study, a 41-year-old woman presented with multiorgan toxicity including hepatotoxicity, bone marrow toxicity, and acute renal failure after consuming an herbal tea for weight loss.

● Also, mild symptoms like itching and hives to severe reactions like anaphylaxis, stomach irritation, acid reflux, or heartburn, interaction with certain medications, unsafe for pregnant or breastfeeding women etc, are some other issues to be noted while introducing tea for boosting the immune system.

The immunity tea benefits can vary depending on individual factors such as overall health, specific health goals, and the type of tea being consumed. 

● A meta-analysis provides evidence that consumption of green tea five or more cups per day is optimal for favourable outcomes concerning the risk of cardiovascular and ischemic-related diseases. 

● In another study, it was observed, that women who drank three to four cups of green tea daily were the least likely to develop oral cancer.

● Green tea consumption of 5 or more cups per day versus less than 1 cup per day, showed a decreased risk of gastric cancer in women.

● Rotate between different types of teas, such as green tea, herbal teas (e.g., ginger, echinacea, elderberry) and speciality teas (e.g., matcha, hibiscus), to maximize the potential benefits.

● Incorporating them into your daily routine, even if it's just one or two serves daily days, can help maintain steady levels of antioxidants and other beneficial compounds in your bodConsumingsume immune-boosting teas in modern is essential, as excessive intake may lead to adverse effects or interactions with medications.