White Tea Benefits & Side Effects

Did you know that White Tea benefits are more substantial than other Teas? You’d be forgiven if you had no idea. In fact, you’d be forgiven if you barely knew anything about this beverage at all.

This is because, in recent years, Green Tea has claimed most of the spotlight. Yet times are changing. The future, it now appears, is this wholesome, delicious, nutritious brew. The following article will explore:

And this is just the beginning. Let’s now step into the history, the production and, of course, the White Tea health benefits of this up-and-coming infusion. Be inspired with The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company today.

What is White Tea?

This Tea, like any ‘real’ Tea, comes from the Camellia sinensis plant. But what makes it different to its Green, Black and Oolong counterparts?

To start, harvesters only select leaves that haven’t yet fully unfurled, coinciding with when the buds are still very young. Contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t get its name from the light liquor it creates. Instead, it comes from the silvery pekoe (hairs or dust) that grow on the unopened buds.

The biggest difference between White Tea and other Types of Tea, however, happens in the factory. After the withering stage of the leaves, producers only allow it to oxidise for a minimal amount of time.

In fact, this oxidation period is even shorter than the production of Green Tea! But what does this mean?

The process of oxidation applies to humans and Tea alike. We experience oxidation, for example, through the transference of oxygen around the body. With Tea, it refers to the change in the structure of the leaf through this oxidation process.

Owing to its lack of oxidation, this particular Tea is exposed to oxygen for only a short while after harvesting. This helps to maintain its most ‘natural’ structure. The longer a Tea is left to oxidise (e.g. Black Tea), the darker it becomes. This process also changes the taste of the Tea. White Tea, on the other hand, changes very little.

When brewed, the lack of processing creates an unmistakably delicate and fresh infusion. Most White Tea drinkers note its mild, sweet flavours with light grassy undertones.

However, there is another essential factor to consider. This very same lack of processing also plays into the hands of its benefits. This is because it enables the leaf to retain the majority of its antioxidants - even more so than Green Tea!

White Tea Benefits

White Tea benefits the mind, body and soul. Perhaps most surprisingly, when it comes to the body, in particular, the health benefits of White Tea in fact surpass those of Green Tea Benefits. This is because it contains higher levels of vitamins, minerals and other antioxidants.

Antioxidants are the answer to many ailments in society. The most crucial antioxidant found in White Tea is Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which can combat free radicals in the body. Free radicals, in turn, are the product of natural, though harmful, human oxidation.

As we’ve already established, by preventing too much oxidation in Tea, you get White Tea. By preventing too much oxidation in humans, meanwhile, you reduce the risk of developing a multitude of chronic conditions. This is precisely what White Tea benefits can do.

Its high levels of EGCG, even more so than Green Tea, slow down the process of oxidation. In doing this, your morning cuppa’ plays a small but significant role in preventing conditions such as cardiovascular disease and type-2 diabetes. But there’s more.

1. Can Aid Weight Loss

The benefits of drinking White Tea every day can even see your waistline shrink! This is because it can boost the metabolism of fat cells - thus resulting in weight loss. These incredible findings come from a 2009 study published in “Nutrition and Metabolism”.

The research recognised how White Tea effectively reduces the deposition of triglycerides in human adipocytes (fat cells) and promotes the breakdown of fats. In other words, its frequent consumption enables the body to burn fat quicker and more efficiently.

It’s worth noting, however, that it won’t do all of the work for you. Without eating well and frequently exercising alongside White Tea consumption, the results will be minimal at best. Consider this beverage more of an accompaniment to a healthy lifestyle as opposed to a fix-all solution.

2. May Help Reduce Acne

This infusion is an excellent choice when it comes to improving skin health overall (we’ll talk more about this later). Right now, though, we’re going to look into its capacity to improve acne.

Early evidence indicates that just two cups of White Tea a day could make all the difference.

This is because the Antioxidants in White Tea, particularly EGCG, flush out nasty toxins in your body, which ultimately reduces acne. Research from Kingston University, London, also notes that it is antiseptic - another factor positively influencing your skin’s appearance.

3. Has a Positive Effect in Pregnancy

There is some evidence, specifically from a Scottish study, suggesting that the antioxidants in White Tea can offer cell protection from oxidative damage during pregnancy.

However, there are some health concerns worth noting before drinking this beverage while pregnant.

Namely, its caffeine content (though less than other Teas) might pose a risk to unborn babies. This is because they’re unable to metabolise caffeine like the mother.

Furthermore, according to a 2007 article published in “Planta Medica”, the EGCG in White Tea can inhibit folic acid intake, a B vitamin that helps prevent congenital disabilities. If you have any concerns, it’s paramount you talk to a doctor.

4. Helps with Skin Health and Anti-Ageing

The miracle of EGCG strikes again. This time, it’s helping to keep your skin appear more youthful. A recent study by BioMed Central has established that White Tea has antioxidant activity that directly affects the overall health and appearance of your skin.

Researchers with this study looked specifically at the effects on structural proteins found in the skin called elastin and collagen.

Elastin maintains the elasticity of the skin and helps in wound repair. Collagen, on the other hand, is a protein found in connective tissue that supports the skin’s strength as well as its elasticity.

The breakdown of these two proteins can lead to age-related wrinkles and sagging skin. The research reads:

“White tea whole extract exhibits comparable anti-elastase activity to EGCG alongside very high collagenase [enzymes that break the peptide bonds in collagen] inhibition at a very small final concentration of 25 μg… [this] suggests additive or synergistic activity between the catechins within the tea extract, particularly in the case of collagenase inhibition.

Also, as collagenase is a zinc-containing metalloproteinase, the catechins within the tea extract which are known to be metal chelators may bind to the Zn2+ ion within the enzyme thus preventing it from binding with the substrate”.

That’s a lot to take in. Let’s (ironically) break this down. The researchers essentially discovered that White Tea helped to prevent the breakdown of elastin and collagen. This, in turn, meant stronger, better skin. So, before you buy that tub of £90 face cream, why not try White Tea first?

5. Can Reduced Diabetes Risks

As we’ve already mentioned, the antioxidants in this Tea can combat free radicals. This, in turn, slows down the process of oxidation, which ultimately helps in the fight against diabetes. However, this isn't the only way it can help.

Human trials conducted in a Chinese study showed that White Tea could significantly benefit diabetes patients thanks to its capacity to balance blood sugar levels. Another study conducted on diabetes-induced rats showed that it reduced some symptoms associated with the condition.

There is also another slightly more obscure way that it can fight diabetes. Specifically, this refers to avoiding the development of diabetes in the first place!

Widespread research suggests that chronic stress disrupts sleep and blood sugar levels. This then leads to increased hunger and combating eating.

Eventually, side effects like these escalate, leading to further disrupted sleep, even higher levels of stress and even more disrupted blood sugars. In time, this doesn’t just cause unhealthy levels of body fat but also increases the risk of type-2 diabetes.

Stopping stress at the source is the potential answer. And what could be more relaxing than a cup of White Tea?

6. Low in Tannins

Tannins, also known as tannoids or tannic acid, are a class of astringent polyphenols. They exist in a variety of naturally occurring substances, including wood and, of course, Tea leaves.

Many people recognise the term from leather. Tannins in Tea, however, provide a distinct bitter taste when brewed. But are Tannins bad for you? It depends.

There is no denying the fact, for example, that drinking Tea can reduce the risk of several chronic conditions. This, indeed, is in part due to its tannin content.

On the other hand, these chemical compounds can, in some cases, also hinder digestion and metabolism. Due to the lack of processing, though, White Tea contains very few tannins, thus making it an excellent alternative.

7. Increase Energy and Alertness

The most famous infusion for combating inflammation is, unmistakably, Turmeric Root Tea - a remarkable herb known to many as “the spice of life”.

There are around 5,600 biomedical study reports about the anti-inflammatory properties of Turmeric. However, White Tea benefits may also reduce the risk of diseases related to chronic inflammation.

This is according to one Japanese study, which recognised how catechins suppress the inflammation of the muscles while accelerating recovery after exercise.

Furthermore, EGCG has anti-inflammatory properties capable of treating a multitude of inflammatory ailments.

8. Supports Liver Health

Hepatitis is an inflammatory condition of the liver. It commonly occurs due to a viral infection, although there are other potential causes of this disease. Globally, around 500 million people suffer from it every year. Could White Tea benefits be the answer? Not quite, but it could, at least, help.

We already know that this beverage has anti-inflammatory properties, which might support those living with hepatitis. According to one US study, it is also antiviral - a trait enabling it to potentially block the life cycle of hepatitis B.

Nevertheless, until we know more, The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company does NOT endorse this Tea for this purpose. Instead, we support ongoing research.

9. Helps Maintain a Healthy Heart

A 2012 Spanish study recognised how White Tea could potentially reverse the effects of oxidative stress in cells, thus improving cardiovascular health.

The research also found that a notably high dose of White Tea saw the heart recover its antioxidant activity. These findings were backed by a Greek study, which likewise acknowledged the potent antioxidant effects of White Tea benefits.

If that wasn’t enough, its health-promoting potential extends to lowering “bad” LDL cholesterol levels, decreasing blood pressure and even improving the functioning of the blood vessels. Pretty neat for your morning cuppa, wouldn’t you agree? 

10. Stronger Healthy Teeth

This will put a smile on your face: White Tea benefits include stronger, healthier teeth! The reason behind this is its wealth in fluorides and flavonoids, as well as small amounts of tannins, which are supportive of oral health in various ways.

Fluoride, for instance, reduces dental caries, while tannins inhibit the formation of plaque. Then there are flavonoids, which prevent the growth of bacteria.

What’s more, it can also deactivate viruses and eliminate the bacteria that cause cavities in the teeth. This is according to a study which discovered that White Tea extracts enhanced the antibacterial and antiviral effects of toothpaste when combined.

11. May Help to Enhanced Memory

In the UK alone, an estimated 750,000 people suffer from conditions such as Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, with the number set to double in the next 40 years as Britain’s population ages. White Tea, meanwhile, has long been seen as a potential memory aid.

One Portuguese study determined that catechins in this beverage protect the brain from age-related memory decline.

Another research project recognised how its regular consumption improved the health of cerebral cortex in pre-diabetic rats, suggesting it could achieve similar results in humans.

How Many Calories in White Tea

There is no easy way to lose weight. Despite a multitude of websites claiming you can “shed 7 pounds in 7 days”, this simply isn’t true. It requires hard work and determination; will power and perseverance.

It also often demands you limit your calories. But how many calories are in White Tea, exactly? The simple answer is “not many”. So few, in fact, that it’s hardly noticeable, read more about Calories in Tea.

One 8-oz serving of this beverage contains no more than two calories, thus making it an excellent alternative to sugary soft drinks. This likewise supports White Tea’s weight loss potential when it comes to boosting the metabolism of fat cells. Great news, huh? 

Does White Tea Have Caffeine?

Caffeine is a naturally occurring stimulant that, once consumed, is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, eventually travelling to the liver. There, it is broken down and passed onto numerous other organs in the body, namely the brain.

It then blocks adenosine, a neurotransmitter that relaxes the mind while making you feel less tired. In doing this, it essentially has the opposite effect, making you feel energised.

Like any infusion to originate from the Camellia sinensis plant, this Tea does, indeed, contain caffeine. But what is the caffeine level? Here is a comparison:

Average Caffeine Levels by Type

• White Tea contains 15-20 mg of caffeine per cup.
• Green Tea contains 30 mg of caffeine per cup.
• Oolong Tea contains 45 mg of caffeine per cup.
• Black Tea contains 50 mg of caffeine per cup.
• Coffee contains between 65 and 150 mg of caffeine per cup.

As you can see, White Tea contains the lowest amount of caffeine of any other Tea (and Coffee!). This makes it the perfect choice for those looking to cut down.

Caffeine sensitive individuals, as well as those who’re pregnant, often choose it for this reason. To find out more information, please read our blog: “How much Caffeine in Tea”

Does White Tea Have Side Effects?

There are nearly countless studies demonstrating the effectiveness of White Tea benefits in treating various ailments. Many researchers, in fact, conclude that its consumption is safe and virtually free of side effects.

Yet that isn’t, of course, to say it doesn’t pose at least SOME health concerns. Perhaps most notably, its caffeine content, however little, can cause insomnia and dizziness.

Furthermore, when applied topically, there is a risk that White Tea extract might cause skin irritation. It has also been associated with heart problems when consumed excessively.

If you experience any of these side effects, we strongly urge you to seek a medical consultation. First and foremost, The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company care about the welfare of our customers. 

Popular Types of White Tea

Now that you know the facts, it’s time to try the Tea! Below, you will find some of our most popular types, although it’s worth noting that we stock many, many more.

Best of all, we pack almost every product fresh to order, ensuring not only quality but also consistency.

Our White Tea Recommendation 

1. White Peony Tea: This is likely the most famous White Tea of them all, as well as being one of the highest grades. It largely consists of unopened buds, which, when brewed, boast a delectably sweet flavour with distinct floral notes.
2. White Tea Bags: If you don’t have time to brew up Loose Leaf Tea, then White Tea Bags is, undoubtedly, the answer. These little pockets of goodness are convenience in a cup, showcasing the same great taste and White Tea benefits as all our other products.
3. Organic White Tea: Hoping to do more for the environment? Look no further than here. Organic Tea is produced using controlled bio-cultivation methods, meaning it’s free of synthetic fertilisers, herbicides and pesticides.
4. Pomegranate White Tea: When it comes to Flavoured Tea, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more flavoursome, indulgent, nutritious infusion than this one. Adorned with delicious pomegranates, cranberries and rose petals, it allures from start to finish.
5. Bai Mu Dan White Tea: Here, we have elegance in a cup. Produced in early spring, it’s only the top bud and two top leaves which are used in its making, thus guaranteeing its exceptional flavour and quality. A must-have for your Tea collection! 
6. Silver Needle White Tea: Also known as Ying Zhen, this high-grade Tea is a true delight to the senses. Its loose leaves resemble pine needles (hence the name), while its flavour is mellow with a slightly smoky aftertaste. What’s not to like?

Conclusion

This unique, indeed extraordinary, type of Tea is unlike any other. Due to it undergoing only minimal oxidation, it retains most of its natural taste, character and antioxidants.

This ultimately contributes significantly to its White Tea benefits, which promote weight loss, reduce acne and support liver health - among many other qualities. Why not try it today?