Earl Grey Tea: Health and Benefits.

Earl Grey tea is a flavored tea that is infused with bergamot orange. Flavored teas consist of true tea leaves that are infused or blended with fruit, flowers, herbs or spices. The rind of the bergamot orange is dried and added to black tea leaves to produce Earl Grey tea. Bergamot oil extracted from the rind is also used in certain blends. Black tea leaves are the standard for Earl Grey, but sometimes green tea leaves or oolong tea leaves are used instead.

Bergamot oranges are grown in Calabria, Italy and parts of France. The fruit more closely resembles limes in appearance. The flavor of bergamot oranges is a blend of a variety of citrus fruits. It looks like a cross between an orange and a lime, but taste more like a grapefruit or lemon. The bergamot orange tree is believed to be a hybrid of the orange tree native to Seville and the lemon tree native to Southeast Asia.

Classic Earl Grey tea features lemony and malty notes. These contrasting flavors make the beverage a distinctive tea that is beloved by many. It is typically made from an infusion of traditional black teas.

These types of black tea feature flavor profiles with hints of toffee, caramel, and honey. The aroma of these black teas is nutty and woodsy. The combination of these black tea flavors and the citrusy and fragrant bergamot flavor, results in a tangy yet malty tea.

Health Benefits of Earl Grey Tea:

Boosts Immune System: It’s no secret that citrus fruits are a key component in fighting off colds and flus. Bergamot orange is no different. Earl Grey is particularly popular in Europe and the United States during the winter months were colds are rampant. Earl Grey helps the immune system fight off colds thanks to the presence of vitamin C. It also prevents fever and invasions of parasites.

Protects Oral Health: Earl Grey tea protects teeth from oral infections and tooth decay. Earl Grey tea contains antioxidants known as catechins as well as fluoride. These compounds are used in toothpaste and mouthwashes to prevent cavities and the breakdown of tooth enamel.

Detox Tea: Earl Grey tea boasts antioxidant powers that help to eliminate free radicals. These free radicals wreak havoc on the human body and cause everything from premature aging to cancer. Free radicals are caused by an unhealthy diet, smoking, and environmental factors such as pollution. Earl Grey tea detoxifies the body of these free radicals.

Improves Heart Health: Earl Grey tea contains antioxidants that support heart health and prevent serious cardiovascular disease such as heart attacks and high blood pressure. These antioxidants work to remove plaque buildup in blood vessels and the heart. They also work to prevent oxidative stress that causes cell damage. Earl Grey tea reduces LDL cholesterol when consumed regularly.

Boosts Energy: Since most Earl Grey is made with a black tea base, it contains moderate amounts of caffeine. This tea gives an energy boost in the morning that is more subtle and stable than energy provided by coffee. The caffeine content is low enough that it won’t cause blood sugar spikes or make you feel jittery.

Improves Digestion: Earl Grey boasts anti-inflammatory properties that help to alleviate gastric problems including constipation and bloating. The tea works to soothe stomach muscles that cause cramping when constricted. It minimizes feelings of nausea when consumed before boarding a boat or plane.

Helps You Stay Hydrated: Earl Grey is a great alternative to boring old water. It’s infused in water so you’ll get the same amount of water intake as you would drinking a standard 8-ounce glass of water. The taste is delightful and the citrusy and malty flavors satisfy a sweet tooth. Make sure to keep sugar additives such as cane sugar and honey to a minimum to preserve the low-calorie quality of this beverage.

Lara Khouli