Before we look at the processing, you should realize that throughout East Asia, green tea leaves have been used for centuries as medication for poor digestion, body aches and pains, headaches and general improved well being. Today, the consumption of green tea is more popular than ever.

** Processing **

Very little processing is necessary to create green tea. Actually, in the majority of cases, the leaves are dried immediately after harvesting or briefly treated with steam prior to drying. There are a few types that are also lightly roasted. Because of this minimal processing, the leaves keep their green color and more importantly they keep the extremely beneficial ingredients that contribute to their healing properties. The leaves contain caffeine, tannins, essential oils, proteins, vitamins, minerals and trace elements such as fluoride, zinc and potassium.

** Benefits **

Green tea is naturally rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are needed by the body to defend cells from free radicals (unstable molecules found in our cells). Too much free radical harm, over time, could lead to diseases which includes cancer. As part of our regular cell processing, antioxidants attach themselves to free radicals and this results in the neutralization these molecules. Drinking green tea on a regular basis has been linked (via a great deal of analysis) with the prevention of cancer; it lowers the risk high blood cholesterol, harmful blood clotting and stroke.

Green tea is very commendable for arthritis sufferers because of its anti-inflammatory characteristics. It contains caffeine that has an exhilarating effect and it promotes concentration. In addition, it has antibacterial properties and the trace element fluorine helps to battle tooth decay.

Just one cup of green tea a day will be beneficial in the prevention of decay and it is also ideal after your meals as a palette cleanser. Many Naturopaths recommend it to cleanse the body. It is a useful addition to all types of detoxification diets. It contains no calories, no carbs and is referred to as the 'fat eater' in China due to its cholesterol-lowering properties.

Green tea is an extraordinary thirst quencher. It is enjoyed at any period of the day and is also delicious hot or cold. Try it with a squeeze of lemon, over ice for a very rejuvenating drink.

** Preparation **

Usual Preparation: Use one level teaspoon of tea leaves per cup. Boil your water and then let the water sit for a couple of minutes - to chill slightly. Boil to 70 degrees Celsius if you possess one of those fancy kettles. Pour the water over the tea and leave the tea to brew.

Brewing the tea for 2-3 minutes should give you a mild tasting but highly stimulating tea.

Brewing for 4-6 minutes yields a less exhilarating and stronger tasting tea.

Please Note: The caffeine in green tea can result in heart palpitations in extra sensitive people. To limit the amount of caffeine, put one teaspoon of leaves in your cup, pour a little bit of hot water over it and allow it to stand for 30 seconds then strain. Now use the leaves to prepare your tea as usual.

** Conclusion **

As you can see, the benefits of green tea are enormous. It is no wonder why it has become so popular in our society. It is inexpensive to purchase, and as we have show, is very simple to make. If you have never tried green tea before, do yourself a favor and pick some up today.