Drinking tea -- research shows it to be a healthy activity, because tea contains antioxidants that help fight cancer and even slow the aging process. Vitamin C, found in some teas, helps fight illnesses and colds. Some teas contain polyphones, which strengthen teeth by reducing plaque and also help aid digestion by increasing the flow of digestive juices in the stomach.



Tea, in short, has many healing properties. Here are 10 natural healing tea therapies.

1. Black Tea

Black tea blends are the most popular in the Western world. After the leaves are picked, they go through full fermentation that makes the leaves darken to almost black. Black tea can be flowery, fruity, and spicy or even have a nutty taste. Black tea, known for lowering the risk of stroke, contains antioxidants, which help reduce clotting of the arteries. Black Tea varieties include: Black Tea, Rose Black Tea, English Breakfast Black Tea, and Earl Grey Black Tea.

2. Chamomile Tea

Considered a floral tea, Chamomile has a very aromatic, fruity flavor and is a member of the daisy family. This tea helps with toothaches, insomnia, and muscle cramps, plus it reduces the swelling of skin irritations.

3. Green Tea

Green tea with its huge nutritional benefits is the most popular tea in Asia. Varieties include: Jasmine Green Tea, Jasmine Dragon Pearl, Green Peony Tea and Roasted Japanese Green Tea. After green tea is picked, it is dried using hot air. The leaves are then pan fried, but not fermented, which helps preserve the high nutrient and vitamin content. Vitamin C in green tea helps boost the immune system and promotes overall good health. Fluoride, found naturally in green tea, strengthens bones and prevents dental decay.

4. Oolong Tea

Oolong tea, known for aiding indigestion and lowering cholesterol levels, is made from large, mature trees. The leaves are left to wither after being picked, which removes moisture. Semi-fermentation happens after the leaves are left in the shade. Oolong tea has a a full-bodied taste, a pleasant aftertaste, and a sweet fruity aroma. Some varieties are: Jasmine Oolong Tea, Ice Peak Oolong Tea, Hairy Crab Oolong Tea and WUYI Rock Tea.

5. Red Tea

Grown in Africa, Red Tea is rich in antioxidants. This kind of tea has been proven to help boost the immune system, and is also caffeine-free. Varieties of Red Tea include: Florida Orange Red Tea, Organic Cape Red Tea, Organic Green Red Tea and Organic Green Summer Red Tea.

6. Rosebud Tea

A floral tea, Rosebud tea is made using rosebuds from a rose bush. The tea has a very sweet, floral aroma and a light, sweet taste; it is often brewed with other types of tea. Essential oils in this tea help aid circulation.

7. White Tea

Made by using very young tea leaves that are still covered in down, white tea leaves are not fermented. Instead, they are steamed and dried in the sun. Because of the lack of fermentation, white tea contains a high concentration of chemical compounds, known to help fight cancer. The brewed tea has a silver-white appearance because of the downy leaves. It has a sweet aroma and fresh flavor. White tea varieties include: Silver Needle, White Peony, and Jasmine Silver Needle.

8. Paraguay Mate

Very popular in South America, Paraguay Mate is brewed with spices and sipped with a straw from a gourd. The tea is used to aid many health problems, including depression, digestion, and boosting energy levels.

9. Wild Holy Tea

Wild Holy Tea has a bitter taste. It is used for medicinal purposes: to detoxify the body, aid in blood circulation and improve digestion. With regular consumption, Wild Holy Tea has been shown to help control blood pressure and obesity.

10. Milk Tea

The most popular tea in India and Sri Lanka is an Indian black tea mixed with spices. It's called Milk tea because it is usually brewed with milk and spices, such as cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. Milk tea added with other types of tea, such as green tea, contributes to overall health.