Purple tea is a distinct type of tea, made from purple tea leaves. The purple tea leaves are sourced from the massive green tea plantations found in Kenya. It is called purple tea because the leaves are usually purple instead of green. But you may wonder why you have never noticed a whole plantation filled with purple tea leaves say in Kericho or Meru. Well, that’s because if the tea leaves are not plucked while they are still young and purple the colour starts fading to green which is what most people see in tea fields.
The purple tea leaves are known to contain a mega antioxidant known as anthocyanins, which gives them a purple colour. This antioxidant is also found in different coloured berries such as blueberries, Acai berries, blackberries and strawberries.
To preserve the nutrients and flavour the purple tea leaves are withered, panned, rolled then dried. Purple tea leaves provide a variety of benefits which we shall be looking at in this article.
- Rich in antioxidants
Due to how it is harvested and processed, purple tea is considered to have the highest level of antioxidants only second to white tea. Purple tea is rich in anthocyanins, which fight free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic illnesses like cancer, tumours and heart problems.
2. Low calories
Tea contains zero calories and that is why in most populations, including Asian countries, tea is believed to reduce the amount of belly fat also known as visceral fat. Even though studies are yet to sufficiently support this claim in other parts of the world, purple tea as a low-calorie beverage can be consumed in place of high-calorie drinks for purposes of weight management.
3. Anti-inflammatory and antiviral
Purple tea contains anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties which makes it valuable in fighting against common health problems. These included colds, flu and other respiratory problems like asthma. Here are 7 remedies on how to treat colds and flu at home
Additionally, purple tea exhibits anaesthetic properties, hence why it’s used to cure swelling and as a painkiller.
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4. Reduce LDL
If LDL also known as bad cholesterol is oxidised, it changes to plaque and blocks the arteries. Purple tea lowers LDL levels and prevents cholesterol from being oxidised thus boosting heart health. Taking purple tea which also contains a higher concentration of the antioxidant polyphenols, combats free radicals, prevents blocking of arteries and hence reduces the risk of heart disease.
5. Promotes heart health
Purple tea alongside other types of tea is helpful in maintaining cardiovascular health. Aside from reducing the cholesterol levels, which is crucial for boosting heart health, purple tea contains polyphenols and anthocyanins which prevent endothelial dysfunction, inflammatory processes and the risk of heart diseases.
Purple tea also helps maintain healthy blood pressure and promote normal blood vessel function (endothelial functioning) thus preventing strokes and cardiovascular diseases.
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6. Boost cognitive function
Drinking purple tea improves concentration, boosts focus and helps one maintain a positive mood. Purple tea has less caffeine as compared to other types of teas hence the crash is not as felt as it is after taking other varieties like black tea.
Animal-based studies have shown that purple tea reduces stress and increases memory retention. Based on this, purple tea remains a promising ingredient in the treatment of amnesia and dementia.
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7. Good for skin
As a cultivar of Camellia Sinensis, an extract found in skin products like the Innisfree green tea line, purple tea can boost skin appearance and promote skin repair. Purple tea is a natural moisturiser that keeps the skin hydrated and supple, all while reducing oiliness and breakouts. Due to its high antioxidants levels, purple tea counteracts free radicals which cause oxidative stress and eventually skin damage.
Incorporating purple tea steam in your skincare routine is said to remove toxins and promote skin-plumping, all while delivering key properties of purple tea to skin tissues. Here are the benefits of steaming and how to do it at home. Check out 6 Benefits Of Purple Tea For The Skin
Check out the benefits of green tea, different uses of green tea and what you can do with teabags –5 Creative Things You Can Do With Your Used Teabags. You can also use tea leaves including purple tea to make Kombucha – Health: Benefits Of Kombucha & How To Make It
