Exploring the Meridian Effects of Tea: The Impact of Different Tea Types on the Body's Meridians and Health Benefits

Exploring the Meridian Effects of Tea: The Impact of Different Tea Types on the Body's Meridians and Health BenefitsIn 2019, Fudan University published a noteworthy study in the journal Quantitative Biology specifically investigating the relationship between tea and human meridians. Based on meridian theory, the study recruited 42 volunteers for a series of rigorous experiments

Exploring the Meridian Effects of Tea: The Impact of Different Tea Types on the Body's Meridians and Health Benefits

Every time we hold a warm cup of tea and savor its fragrance, a sense of tranquility and comfort washes over us. But have you ever considered that tea is not merely a warming beverage, but might also possess a mysterious ability to "regulate meridians"? Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) posits that good health depends on the free flow of energy through the body's meridians, and different types of tea can purportedly unblock specific meridians, leading to unexpected health benefits.

This isn't merely a traditional medical conjecture; modern scientific research is beginning to explore the fascinating connection between tea and the body's meridians.

• In 2019, Fudan University published a noteworthy study in the journal Quantitative Biology specifically investigating the relationship between tea and human meridians. Based on meridian theory, the study recruited 42 volunteers for a series of rigorous experiments. To ensure scientific accuracy, participants were instructed to drink only one type of tea daily. Results indicated that different teas indeed affected various meridians specifically. Volunteers experienced different bodily responses after consuming different teassome areas felt warm, others sweated. Researchers meticulously documented these phenomena and summarized a pattern: green tea corresponded to the Taiyang meridian, black tea to the ShaoYang meridian, white tea to the Taiyin meridian, oolong tea to the Yangming meridian, dark tea (Heicha) to the Jueyin meridian, and yellow tea to the Shaoyin meridian. This research initially revealed a correlation between different teas and specific meridians, suggesting that various teas may activate different meridians, helping the body maintain balance. However, this is just the beginning, and further research is needed to thoroughly investigate the underlying mechanisms.

So, how exactly does tea affect the body's meridians? This is closely related to the abundant bioactive compounds in tea. Tea polyphenols, potent antioxidants, scavenge free radicalsharmful substances that damage cell health. TCM theory suggests that this free radical scavenging process is akin to "unblocking meridians," allowing for smoother energy flow and reduced burden on internal organs. Furthermore, tea contains theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and stress reduction. The feeling of calm experienced by many after drinking tea during stressful times is not simply a placebo effect, but rather the result of theanine's calming neurological effects. The synergistic effects of tea polyphenols and theanine contribute to tea's efficacy in maintaining clear meridians and alleviating mental and physical stress.

Tea selection isn't one-size-fits-all. Different teas suit different constitutions and seasons, reflecting the TCM principle of individualization. The Fudan University study also pointed out that the thermal nature of tea influences its suitability for different individuals. Green tea, an unfermented tea with a cooling nature, is suitable for those with excessive Yang energy and prone to heatiness, particularly during summer, helping to clear heat and reduce liver fire. However, individuals with a cold constitution or weak spleen and stomach should avoid excessive green tea consumption to prevent worsening discomfort. Black tea, a fully fermented tea with a warm nature, is more appropriate for winter and individuals with a cold constitution, warming the body, strengthening the spleen and stomach, and benefiting those with cold extremities and weak constitutions. White tea, intermediate between green and black tea, possesses a cooling nature with heat-clearing and detoxifying effects, making it suitable for most people, especially in summer. Oolong tea, a semi-fermented tea with a neutral nature, falls between black and green tea and is ideal for autumn, clearing accumulated heat and alleviating autumn dryness. Dark tea, a post-fermented tea with a warm and mellow nature, is highly suitable for those with cold spleen and stomach, particularly in cold weather, but should be consumed sparingly by individuals with Yin deficiency and internal heat.

While tea offers numerous benefits, attention to detail is crucial, including concentration, timing, and quantity. Research from Harbin Medical University indicates that light tea is more suitable; strong tea can cause nervous excitement, sleep disturbances, and stomach irritation. Drinking strong tea in the evening can lead to insomnia or palpitations. Morning consumption is preferable due to tea's stimulating effects, promoting alertness. Late consumption, especially at night, may disrupt the sleep cycle. Tea intake should also be moderate. Caffeine and theophylline in tea can accelerate heartbeat and raise blood pressure, so excessive consumption should be avoided. Moderate tea consumption allows one to enjoy its health benefits without burdening the cardiovascular system. Furthermore, avoid drinking tea on an empty stomach, as tannins and theophylline can directly irritate the stomach, potentially causing discomfort, dizziness, or palpitations. It's best to drink tea after meals, ideally an hour later, to avoid hindering digestion and causing constipation.

Scientific research also confirms the cardiovascular benefits of long-term tea consumption. A study published by the American Heart Association (JAHA) showed that consistent tea consumption can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. A six-year follow-up study revealed that those who regularly drank tea experienced a slower decline in high-density lipoprotein ("good" cholesterol) levels, contributing to better cardiovascular health. Tea polyphenols are key to this effect, exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, reducing blood viscosity, improving blood circulation, and minimizing vascular deposits, thus lowering cardiovascular disease risk. However, it's crucial to remember that tea only plays a supplementary role; individuals with existing cardiovascular diseases still require standard medical treatment and should not rely on tea as a drug substitute.

Different teas also have varying shelf lives. Green tea, being unfermented, is best consumed within one year for optimal flavor. Oolong and black teas can be stored for two to three years. Dark and white teas, if stored properly, can be kept for longer periods, developing richer flavors. Even past their expiration dates, teas remain drinkable if free from mold, off-odors, or moisture. Experts recommend storing tea in a dry, cool, well-ventilated, and dark place to extend its shelf life. Green tea can be refrigerated to maintain freshness, while black and dark teas are best stored in a cool, dry place.

Tea is more than just a daily beverage; it's a part of a healthy lifestyle. By scientifically selecting, consuming, and storing tea, we can not only enjoy its tranquil aroma but also reap genuine health benefits. Different types of tea correspond to various constitutions, seasons, and meridians; rational tea consumption helps maintain physical and mental balance. In our fast-paced society, take the time each day to quietly brew a cup of tea, granting yourself a moment of tranquility, allowing its fragrance to guide you towards a healthy and peaceful lifestyle.