The healthiest tea for you is the one you'll want to drink every day. By that definition, if you live in the West, the tea that's the healthiest for you is probably black tea. Over 90 percent of all tea sold in the West is black tea (or red tea, as it is known in the East).
Like green tea, oolong tea, and white tea, black tea is made from leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, so it shares many tea health benefits with other tea types. However, black tea is unique, and it is known to be especially beneficial for certain health purposes.
The major health benefits of black tea include its nutritional value, anti-cancer benefits, digestive benefits, beneficial effects on skin and hair health, and much more. Grab a cup of tea (preferably organic tea) and learn more.
* Mend cuts and scrapesBlack tea's tannins act as astringents to stop bleeding from open cuts or scrapes. Gently press a cool, damp tea bag on the affected area to feel soothing relief and reduce any swelling. However, if you notice any signs of an infection, get to your doctor ASAP.
* Kill foot odorNo one wants to deal with stinky feet. Luckily, black tea is one of the most effective home remedies for foot odor. The tannic acid in strong black tea kills bacteria and closes pores and it can help your feet sweat less. Take advantage of this benefit by soaking in a black tea footbath. Boil two tea bags in a pint of water for 15 minutes, remove the bags, and dilute the tea with two quarts of water. Let the mixture cool if necessary, then soak your feet for 15 to 30 minutes. Repeat daily. Rub a couple drops of these essential oils on your feet to keep them smelling fresh.
* Improve gum healthBlack tea contains astringent tannic acids that shrink swollen tissues and help staunch bleeding. (Here's the real reason your gums are bleeding.) If you have swollen gums, press wet black tea bags directly on them to start healing. You can also use tea as a mouthwash to improve gum health. If you have any concerns, you should always check with your doctor or dentist.
* Boost your immune systemStrengthening your immune system is a lot easier than you think. Once you pick up these natural immune-boosting habits, you'll start feeling healthier in no time—and you can start with black tea. Scientists at Tufts University compared the ORAC capacity of tea with 22 vegetables. (ORAC refers to the Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity, a measurement of the total antioxidant power of foods and other chemical substances: The higher the ORAC score, the greater its antioxidant capacity.) Although there was variation among various teas, the highest scoring teas were green tea and black tea that was brewed for 5 minutes, and they outranked the top fruits and vegetables. Drink well-steeped black tea to get the maximum benefits for your health.
* Relieve irritated eyesSuffering from dry, itchy eyes? Soak two black tea bags in warm water for ten minutes. Press out excess liquid and place on your eyes for ten minutes to soothe irritation and reduce inflammation. These home remedies for irritated eyes are just as helpful.