
There were many reasons why the Dutch wanted to conquer Indonesia so vigorously. One of the prominent reasons, at least per what history suggests, was that this land was a haven for herbs. The tropical climate of Indonesia has gifted it with ample sunshine; making the conditions here ideal for growing all kinds of herbs including tea. Currently, Indonesia is the 7th biggest tea producer in the world. Almost half of the country’s tea production is exported. Supposedly, Indonesian teas carry a myriad of health benefits. In this article, we’re going to talk about these Top 3 Indonesian Teas and their Health Benefits!
1. Jasmine Tea
Tea is the favored drink of most Indonesians, with most natives going with jasmine as their preferred go-to flavour. You need a base tea such as green, white, or black to make jasmine tea. In terms of texture and taste, it’s usually smooth, soft, and sweet. Most people enjoy it as it is not hard on the taste buds. When brewed, it tends to waft a pleasing jasmine perfume fragrance into the air.
Benefits of Jasmine Tea
- Depending on the caffeine content of the base tea used in brewing jasmine tea, you might get 35–95mg of caffeine per cup. In comparison to coffee, this may mean a lower caffeine intake. By drinking jasmine tea, you are still getting the caffeine you need to function. That means that whilst you’re reducing caffeine intake, you’re still getting enough to stay energized. It’s a decent dose for staying alert and focused without getting the jitters and nervousness which strong coffee can cause.
- The beautiful aroma of jasmine tea can certainly stimulate your senses and can instantly put you in a good mood and promote relaxation – interestingly enough some studies prove how certain smells can actually evoke a depressed mood. Check out this study on how different fragrances affect mood and behavior.
- Jasmine green teas are loaded with anti-inflammatory properties that seem to help manage certain aches and pains.
2. White Tea
What makes this tea unique is that it doesn’t go through the fermentation process. Harvesters pick white tea leaves carefully before the leaves reach full bloom. It’s known as the queen of all teas because only the best leaf buds go into its preparation. It’s called ‘white’ tea because, at the time of picking, its leaves are covered in what looks like fine white hair. Since the brewing time is among the shortest in the tea world, white tea is able to capture its maximum potency pretty quickly.
Benefits of White Tea
- It can aid in weight loss
- Drinking white tea regularly can clear your skin and cause a healthful glow. It is one of the most recommended herbal preparations as well. The antioxidants can fight free radicals and slow down the pace of ageing.
- As per research, white tea could help to reduce the growth of cancer-causing cells.
- The anti-inflammatory properties of white tea could keep inflammation of various kinds at bay. It may also help with joint aches and pains.
- White tea can serve as a detoxifier helping your body get rid of toxins.
- Much like coffee, white tea can keep you energized but not at any detriment to your health.
3. Red Tea (aka Rosella Tea)
This particular Indonesian tea comes from the Rosella (or Red Hibiscus) plant. It’s a special kind of tea loaded with antioxidants. Red tea can do wonders in reducing episodic hypertension. It may also help lower cholesterol and prevent the growth of cancer cells. The red colour of this tea doesn’t come from any sort of dyes if that’s what you might have thought.
Benefits of Red Tea
- Contains Vitamin C
- Regulates bowel movement
- Regulates blood circulation
- Helpful in managing migraines
- Useful in regulating high blood pressure
- Helpful in weight loss