Black tea is one of the most benefiting forms of tea and has many health benefits. It improves digestion and helps to manage weight by increasing body metabolism.
Black tea improves heart health by lowering the bad cholesterol levels due to its antioxidant property. It also manages blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels and improving blood flow. Black tea might also be helpful in managing diarrhoea as it decreases the gut motility due to tannins present in it. A cup of Black tea might help in getting relief from stress by improving brain function due to its strong antioxidant activity.
Applying Black tea powder along with warm warm on the face helps to get rid of acne due to its anti-inflammatory property.
Excessive consumption of Black tea should be avoided as it may cause stomach problems like acidity[1][3-6].

What are the synonyms of Black Tea?

Camellia sinensis, Chaay, Cha, Tey, Teyaku, Chiyaa, Syamaparni

What is the source of Black Tea?

Plant Based

Benefits of Black Tea

Ayurvedic View

An increase in weight is due to unhealthy food habits and lifestyle which leads to a weak digestive fire. This increases accumulation of Ama causing an imbalance in meda dhatu and resulting in obesity. Black tea is useful to control obesity as it helps improve metabolism and reduce Ama. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties.
Tips:
Black Tea (Kadha)
Take 1 ½ cup of water in a pan.
Add ¼ -½ teaspoons of Black tea or as per your requirement.
Bring it to a boil.
Let it simmer on a medium flame.
Take once or twice a day.

Ayurvedic View

Stress can usually be attributed to an imbalance of Vata dosha, and is associated with insomnia, irritation and fear. Black tea has the property of balancing Vata which helps to manage stress when taken on a regular basis.
Tips:
Black Tea (Kadha)
1. Take 1 ½ cup of water in a pan.
2. Add ¼ -½ teaspoons of Black tea or as per your requirement.
3. Bring it to a boil.
4. Let it simmer on a medium flame.
5. Take once or twice a day.

Modern Science View

Black tea might be beneficial in the management of diarrhea. Diarrhea is associated with increased gut motility and damage of the intestinal mucosa. This increases the release of prostaglandins. Tannins in Black tea have astringent property. It inhibits the release of prostaglandins. Thus, Black tea helps to reduce the frequency and volume of stools by decreasing the gut motility[2][16].

Ayurvedic View

Diarrhea is known as Atisar in Ayurveda. It is due to improper food, impure water, toxins, mental stress and Agnimandya (weak digestive fire). All these factors are responsible for aggravating Vata. This aggravated Vata brings fluid in the intestine from various tissues from the body and mixes with the stool. This leads to loose, watery motions or diarrhea. Taking Black tea may help your body absorb more nutrients and control your diarrhea due to its Kashaya (astringent) property.
Tips:
Black Tea (Kadha)
1. Take 1 ½ cup of water in a pan.
2. Add ¼ -½ teaspoons of Black tea or as per your requirement.
3. Bring it to a boil.
4. Let it simmer on a medium flame.
5. Take once or twice a day.

Modern Science View

Black tea is beneficial in reducing the risk of heart attacks. Heart attack may occur due to a number of cardiovascular problems like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, plaque formation in the arteries and stroke. Black tea helps to lower increased blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It protects the endothelial function and has antiplatelet activity. Thus, Black tea reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases and heart attacks[2][9][10][11].

Modern Science View

lack tea might help reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. Black tea has good antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It prevents lipid peroxidation and plaque formation. Thus, Black tea protects the blood vessels and prevents hardening of arteries[2][9].

Modern Science View

Black Tea is beneficial in the management of osteoporosis. Black tea contains active components like alkaloids, polyphenols and fluoride. It improves the bone density and reduces the risk of osteoporotic fractures[2][12].

Modern Science View

Black tea is beneficial in the management of ovarian cancer. Theaflavins in Black tea have anticancer, antiproliferative and antiangiogenic activities. Black tea induces apoptosis and inhibits the growth of ovarian cancer cells[2][13].

Modern Science View

Black tea is beneficial in the management of Parkinson’s disease. Black tea has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. Black tea contains theanine that promotes the release of dopamine and protects the brain. Caffeine in Black tea helps to improve the motor function and movement in these patients. Flavonoids in Black tea improve blood circulation to the brain. Thus, regular consumption of Black tea lowers the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease[2][14].

Ayurvedic View

High cholesterol is due to an imbalance of Pachak Agni (digestive fire). Impaired digestion at the tissue level produces excess waste products or Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This causes accumulation of bad cholesterol and blockage in the blood vessels. Black tea helps to improve Agni (digestive fire) and reduce Ama. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. It also helps to remove blockage from the blood vessels by eliminating toxins.
Tips:
Black Tea (Kadha)
1. Take 1 ½ cup of water in a pan.
2. Add ¼ -½ teaspoons of Black tea or as per your requirement.
3. Bring it to a boil.
4. Let it simmer on a medium flame.
5. Take once or twice a day.

How effective is Black Tea?

Likely effective

High cholesterol

Likely ineffective

Atherosclerosis (plaque deposition inside the arteries), Heart attack, Kidney stone, Low blood pressure, Osteoporosis, Ovarian cancer, Parkinson's disease

Insufficient evidence

Cancer of mouth, nasopharynx and paranasal sinuses, larynx, oesophagus, Diarrhea, Headache, Heart disease, Kidney cancer, Lung cancer, Obesity, Pancreatic cancer, Prostate cancer, Stress, Stroke, Vomiting

FAQs about Black Tea benefits

Does Black tea have a role in diabetes?

Does Black tea help improve bone health?

Is Black tea helpful for kidney stones?

Does Black tea help relieve asthma?

Is Black tea beneficial in improving mental alertness?

Does Black tea help reduce blood pressure?

Precautions when using Black Tea

Advice from Experts

Important

Modern Science View

1. Avoid Black tea in case of:
a. Anaemia
b. Anxiety disorders
c. Glaucoma
d. Irritable bowel syndrome
e. Hormone sensitive condition like breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids[2].

2. Black tea may interact with the anti-coagulants. So it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Black tea with blood thinners[2].

Breastfeeding

Modern Science View

It is advisable not to drink more than 3 cups a day of Black tea during breastfeeding[2].

Minor Medicine Interaction

Modern Science View

Black tea may decrease the absorption of antifungal drugs. So it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Black tea with antifungal drugs[2].

Moderate Medicine Interaction

Modern Science View

1. Black tea may interact with anti-arrhythmic drugs. So it is generally advisable to monitor your heart rhythm while taking Black tea with anti-arrhythmic drugs[2].
2. Black tea may interact with antibiotics. So it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Black tea with antibiotics[2].
3. Black tea may interact with antacids. So it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Black tea with antacids[2].
4. Black tea may decrease the effect of antipsychotic drugs. So it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Black tea with antipsychotic drugs[2].
5. Black tea may interact with antidepressant drugs. So it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Black tea with antidepressant drugs[2].
6. Black tea may interact with sedatives. So it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Black tea with sedatives[2].
7. Black tea may interact with anti-allergic drugs. So it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Black tea with anti-allergic drugs[2].
8. Black tea may interact with calcium channel blockers. So it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Black tea with calcium channel blockers[2].

Patients with diabetes

Modern Science View

Consult your doctor while taking Black tea if you have diabetes[2].

Patients with heart disease

Modern Science View

Caffeine in Black tea can cause irregular heartbeat in certain people.Consult your doctor while taking Black tea if you have a heart condition[2].

Pregnancy

Modern Science View

It is advisable not to drink more than 3 cups a day of Black tea during pregnancy[2].

Side Effects

Important

Modern Science View

1. Sleep problems
2. Vomiting
3. Diarrhea
4. Irritability
5. Heartburn
6. Dizziness[2].

FAQs about Black Tea precautions

Can Black tea cause acidity?

Does Black tea affect sleep?

Recommended Dosage of Black Tea

Black Tea Capsule - 1-2 capsule twice a day.

How to use Black Tea

1. Black Tea with Milk
a. Take 1 ½ cup of water in a pan.
b. Add ¼- ½ teaspoons of Black tea or as per requirement.
c. Bring it to a boil.
d. Add 1 cup of milk to it.
e. Let it simmer on a medium flame and serve hot.

2. Black Tea capsule
a. Take 1-2 Black Tea capsule.
b. Swallow it with water 1-2 times a day.

3. Black Tea (Kadha)
a. Take 1 ½ cup of water in a pan.
b. Add ¼ -½ teaspoons of Black tea or as per your requirement.
c. Bring it to a boil.
d. Let it simmer on a medium flame and serve hot.

Benefits of Black Tea

Modern Science View

Black tea might be beneficial in the management of stress. Under stressful conditions, an increased in salivary Chromogranin-A (CgA) protein has been observed. Aromatherapy with Black tea shows anti-stress activity. It directly affects the central nervous system and decreases the level of Chromogranin-A (CgA) protein[2][18].

How effective is Black Tea?

Insufficient evidence

Stress

How to use Black Tea

1. Black tea leaves scrub
a. Take ½ -1 teaspoon of Black tea leaves.
b. Add honey to it.
c. Gently massage on the face and neck for 4-5 minutes.
d. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
e. Use this remedy 1-2 week to get rid of blackheads.

2. Black Tea Powder with water
a. Take 1 teaspoon of Black tea powder.
b. Add hot water.
c. Soak it for 15 minutes.
d. Strain and dip a soft cloth into the tea.
e. Squeeze out the cloth.
f. Leave it onto your face for 20 minutes.
g. After that rinse your face with lukewarm water.
h. Repeat it once a week to get rid of acne.

Frequently asked questions

Modern Science View

Black tea is loaded with multiple health benefits. Studies shows the presence of catechins (antioxidants) in the tea extract that increases the body's ability to burn fat. It also boost immunity and improves physical stamina.

Modern Science View

Drinking 3-4 cups of Black tea a day is said to be good for health. Black tea can rehydrate the body and helps to manage heart disease, cancer and high cholesterol. But it is advisable not to drink more than 3-4 cups of Black tea in a day.

Modern Science View

The amount of Black tea consumed in a day varies from one individual to another. However it is advisable not to drink more than 3-4 cups of Black tea in a day.

Modern Science View

Following are the steps to prepare flavourful Black tea:
1. Boil water (around 240ml) in a pan or in a kettle.
2. Wait for 15 seconds and add Black tea bags. You can use approximately two tea bags for three cups of water. Don't add it to hot water as the over extraction of tannins from tea will make the taste bitter.
3. After putting the tea bags, cover the pot with the lid and let it brew for four minutes.
4. Pour the brewed tea into cups.

Modern Science View

Yes, drinking tea in the morning might be beneficial for your health. It strengthens the central nervous system, skeletal system as well as immunity. It is a great source of antioxidants and might help manage cardiovascular health, liver diseases, irritable bowel disease, weight related issues, mental health and stress.

Ayurvedic View

Drinking Black tea on an empty stomach or in excess amount can cause acidity. This is because Black tea has Ushna (hot) property. It increases Pitta dosha which can lead to acidity.

Ayurvedic View

Black tea might affect your sleep by aggravating your Vata dosha. This is because sleep is governed by the Vata dosha. Drinking Black tea in excess amount or before going to bed can aggravate Vata causing insomnia or sleeping disorders.

Modern Science View

Yes, Black tea helps in the management of diabetes. Black tea has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps in the formation of new pancreatic β cells and protects the existing cells. In this way, Black tea helps to promote insulin secretion[2][15].

Modern Science View

Yes, drinking Black tea might help improve bone or skeletal health. This is due to the presence of certain constituents (flavonoids and polyphenols) that promote bone health by reducing the cells responsible for the degradation of bones in the body. This leads to the prevention of complications such as osteoporosis[7].

Ayurvedic View

Yes, Black tea might help improve bone health due to its Balya (strength provider) property. Black tea also helps to improve your appetite and fulfil all the nutritional requirements of your body due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestion) properties. This further helps keep bones healthy and strong.

Modern Science View

Black tea might be helpful in managing kidney stones if taken in a moderate amount (2-3 cups a day). It increases the production of urine which might be beneficial in reducing the risk of kidney stone formation. However, the study also states that taking Black tea with milk or calcium-containing meals might increase oxalates level leading to an increased risk of kidney stone formation[8].

Ayurvedic View

Kidney stones are a kind of toxin which gets accumulated in the kidneys due to an imbalance of any of the three doshas, especially the Kapha dosha. Black tea is beneficial in case of kidney stone due to its Kapha balancing and Mutral (diuretic) property. This increases the production of urine which enhances your excretory system and result in passing out these toxins from your body.

Modern Science View

Yes, Black tea help relieve asthma due to its anti-asthmatic and anti-allergic activities. It decreases the concentration of cytokines which are responsible for allergic responses. This helps reduce inflammation in the respiratory airways and eases breathing[10].

Ayurvedic View

Asthma occurs due to an imbalance of Kapha dosha which disturbs normal breathing by blocking the respiratory passage due to the accumulation of mucus. Black tea helps to clear the accumulated mucus making it easier to breath.

Modern Science View

Yes, Black tea is helpful in improving cognitive functions such as mental alertness, clarity and concentration due to the presence of certain constituents (caffeine and theanine) that enhance mental processes. It might also affect the mind activities so as to bring about a relaxed mental state[11][12].

Modern Science View

Yes, Black tea might help reduce blood pressure due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and vasodilating effects. It widens the blood vessels and improves the flow of blood that helps lower blood pressure[12].

Modern Science View

Adding lemon when taken with Black tea helps to remove toxins from the body. Black tea is a good source of antioxidants, adding lemon to Black tea increases its antioxidant potential and protects the body from various disorders[13].

Ayurvedic View

Black tea taken along with lemon helps to enhance digestion and metabolism as Black tea and lemon both have Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestion) properties. This helps to improve your digestion and improve appetite. Moreover, it also boosts up your metabolism which can also help to manage your weight.

Ayurvedic View

Yes, Black tea can be used on the skin. This is because it helps to reduce acne and gives a clear skin. It also removes dead skin and reduces excess oil from the skin due to its Kashaya (astringent) nature.

Modern Science View

Yes, Black tea might be good for the hair as it possesses antioxidant activity. It fights against cell damage caused by free radicals which helps enhance the growth of hair follicles and prevents complications like hirsutism and pattern alopecia[9].

Ayurvedic View

Hair problems like hair fall, itching or dandruff generally occur due to an imbalance of Pitta and Kapha dosha or lack of nutrition. Black tea helps to manage these problems as it improves your digestion and provides good nutrition to the hair due to its Pitta - Kapha balancing, Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestion) properties.

References

Khan N, Mukhtar H.Tea and Health: Studies in Humans.Curr Pharm Des. 2013; 19(34): 6141–6147.
WebMD.Black-tea: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
Rock W, Rosenblat M, Borochov-Neori H, et al.Effects of date ( Phoenix dactylifera L., Medjool or Hallawi Variety) consumption by healthy subjects on serum glucose and lipid levels and on serum oxidative status: a pilot study.J Agric Food Chem. 2009;57(17):8010-7.
Luczaj W, Skrzydlewska E.Antioxidative properties of black tea.Preventive Medicine.2005; 40(6):910-918.
Imran A, Butt MS, Arshad MS, et al.Exploring the potential of black tea based flavonoids against hyperlipidemia related disorders.Lipids Health Dis.2018;17(1):57.
Gardner EJ, Ruxton CH, Leeds AR.Black tea--helpful or harmful? A review of the evidence.Eur J Clin Nutr. 2007 Jan;61(1):3-18.
Das AS, Mukherjee M, Mitra C. Evidence for a prospective anti-osteoporosis effect of black tea (Camellia Sinensis) extract in a bilaterally ovariectomized rat model. Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2004;13(2):210-206.
Charrier MJ, Savage GP, Vanhanen L. Oxalate content and calcium binding capacity of tea and herbal teas. Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2002;11(4):298-301.
Yesudian P. Can beverages grow hair on bald heads? Int J Trichology. 2012 Jan;4(1):1-2.
Heo JC, Rho JR, Kim TH, et al. An aqueous extract of green tea Camellia Sinensis increases expression of Th1 cell- specific anti-astmatic markers. International journal of Molecular medicine. 2008;22:763-767.
Fatima M, Rizvi SI. Health beneficial effects of Black Tea. Biomedicine. 2011;31(1):3-8.
Bhattacharjee J. A Study on the Benefits of Tea. IJHSSS. 2015;2(2):109-121.
Kipcak AS, Ozdemir OD, Derun EM, et al. Lemon effect on some elements in Turkish teas. International journal of chemical and molecular engineering. 2012;6(7):606-609.

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Black Tea

What are the synonyms of Black Tea?

What is the source of Black Tea?

Benefits of Black Tea

What are the benefits of Black Tea for Obesity?

What are the benefits of Black Tea for Stress?

What are the benefits of Black Tea for Diarrhea?

What are the benefits of Black Tea for Heart attack?

What are the benefits of Black Tea for Atherosclerosis (plaque deposition inside the arteries)?

What are the benefits of Black Tea for Osteoporosis?

What are the benefits of Black Tea for Ovarian cancer?

What are the benefits of Black Tea for Parkinson's disease?

What are the benefits of Black Tea for High cholesterol?

How effective is Black Tea?

FAQs about Black Tea benefits

Precautions when using Black Tea

FAQs about Black Tea precautions

Recommended Dosage of Black Tea

How to use Black Tea

Benefits of Black Tea

What are the benefits of Black Tea for Stress?

How effective is Black Tea?

How to use Black Tea

Frequently asked questions

Q. What does Black tea do to your body?

Q. Can I drink Black tea as water?

Q. How many cups of Black tea can I drink in a day?

Q. How do I extract the best flavor from Black tea?

Q. Is it beneficial to drink Black tea in the morning?

Q. Can Black tea cause acidity?

Q. Does Black tea affect sleep?

Q. Does Black tea have a role in diabetes?

Q. Does Black tea help improve bone health?

Q. Is Black tea helpful for kidney stones?

Q. Does Black tea help relieve asthma?

Q. Is Black tea beneficial in improving mental alertness?

Q. Does Black tea help reduce blood pressure?

Q. What are the benefits of taking Black tea with lemon?

Q. Can I use Black tea on the skin?

Q. What are the benefits of Black tea for hair?

References