Oolong tea benefits for physical and mental health

There are many types of tea, each of which has its own health benefits. One type of tea that is popular for tea connoisseurs when relaxing in the afternoon is oolong tea. Oolong tea is tea made from plants Camellia sinensis. So, what are the benefits of oolong tea for health?

Benefits of oolong tea for body health

Oolong tea has many nutrients as well as bioactive components, such as fluoride, antioxidants, and flavonoids. Here are some of the benefits of tea from traditional Chinese origin, which you shouldn't miss.

1. Sharpen the brain

Oolong tea can improve thinking and cognitive abilities of the brain. The reason is, oolong tea contains caffeine which works to stimulate the brain's central nervous system.

Caffeine consumption has also been linked to a reduced risk of developing Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Several studies have shown that long-term caffeine consumption has a protective effect against the risk of developing Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Other studies have also revealed that caffeine consumption can slow down the process of decline in brain function caused by advancing age.

2. Improve memory

A study conducted in 2004 showed that in addition to cognitive function, regular consumption of oolong tea can improve long-term memory. Oolong tea can inhibit acetylcholinesterase activity, an enzyme that breaks down brain neurotransmitters that are weakened in Alzheimer's disease.

3. Maintain heart health

Several studies have shown that the benefits of oolong tea can help prevent heart attacks and coronary heart disease. A study by Peters (2001) shows that the risk of heart attack in study participants decreased by 11 percent after regularly drinking three cups of oolong tea every day.

Oolong tea is also reported to be useful in reducing bad LDL cholesterol levels.

4. Prevent cavities

This traditional cup of tea contains fluoride and antioxidants that can maintain healthy teeth. Apart from that, oolong tea also contains antibacterial properties which can help prevent cavities and reduce the acidity of the saliva, which can maintain the strength of the enamel (outer layer) of the teeth.

5. Maintain healthy skin

Diligently drinking this tea can relieve symptoms of dermatitis, as reported by research belonging to Uehara in 2001. This study found that oolong tea and green tea can relieve allergic dermatitis reactions after consuming it for a week, one glass a day. Not only that, oolong tea can also reduce the risk of skin cancer.

6. Lose weight

Like green tea, oolong tea contains catechins, substances that reduce fat levels and increase metabolism. Oolong tea is safer to consume than weight loss pills.

7. Prevent cancer

Oolong tea is high in antioxidants, which can help the body fight cancer-causing free radicals. The polyphenols in this tea can also help reduce the growth rate of cancer cells. Research shows that the benefits of oolong tea mainly play a role in preventing the risk of ovarian cancer, but not closing it can also prevent other cancers.

8. Reducing the risk of rheumatism

The antioxidants in this tea can prevent rheumatism. According to Khan (2004), the risk of rheumatism in people who drank three glasses of tea a day was much lower than those who never consumed this tea.

9. Maintain blood sugar levels

Oolong tea can help stabilize blood sugar in people who have diabetes. Therefore, you can make this tea as an alternative therapy in addition to the diabetes drugs prescribed by your doctor.

10. Fight bacteria

Oolong tea has antiseptic and antibacterial effects, which can help the body fight bacteria. Oolong tea has a protective effect against Salmonella, E. coli, Pseudomonas and other infections. This tea also contains probiotics which are good for overall body health.