Tea is the product of Camellia sinensis, a unique non-alcoholic drink that cares, cures and of course cheers. It does fascinating things for the human body. Tea is grown in the countryside in an ambience that is totally ecological, apart from being a renewable natural resource. Even the processing is basically natural despite inevitable technical infringements that have only speeded up the process rather than changing the basic concept. Although the therapeutic values of tea have been known for ages, current research, epidemiological studies and clinical evaluation have unequivocally established the superior abilities of tea compounds in preventing and curing a plethora of human diseases, some as dreadful as cancer. Interestingly enough, quality components of tea, coupled with its anti-oxidant properties, make tea a unique beverage. The purpose of this book is not to publicise tea, but create awareness of the multiple benefits of drinking tea.
Tea: A Global Perspective
A. Black Tea: Introduction
Difference between Black and Green Tea
An Overview; The Harvest
Producers of Black Tea
Tea Processing in Relation to Release of Therapeutic Compounds
Discussion B. Green Tea
Introduction
Processing
Biochemical Characteristics
Biological Properties of Green Tea
References
The Diversity of Therapeutic Compounds in Tea: Polyphenols
Caffeine
Vitamins
Carbohydrates
Lipids
Triterpenoids
Carotenoids and Pigments
Minerals
Overall Distribution of Compounds
References
Production of Therapeutic Compounds in Tea: Polyphenols
Theaflavins and Thearubigins
References
Pharmacological Evaluation of the Medicinal Properties of Tea: Pharmacological Aspects Associated with Tea Consumption
Cardiovascular System
Cancer
Tea and Dental Health
Tea and Fluid Replenishment
Gastrointestinal System
Neurological Effects of Tea
Antihyperglycemic Activity
Antiinflammatory and Antiarthritic Actions
Skin and Topical Wound Healing Activity; Antimicrobial Action
Angiogenesis Inhibition
Absorption of Tea Flavonoids
Potential Health Concerns Associated with Tea Consumption
Tea and Iron Absorption
Conclusion
Acknowledgements
References
Beneficial Health Effect of Black Tea
Increasing Evidence
Introduction
Composition and Chemistry of Tea
Pharmacological Properties of Tea
Antioxidative Effects of Tea
Modulation of Metabolizing/ Detoxifiying Enzymes
Modulation of Immune Function
Antimutagenic Activity
Anticarcinogenic Activity
Prevention of Coronary Heart Disease
Germicidal and Antiviral Activity
Regulation of Intestinal Microflora
Prevention of Dental Caries
Conclusion
References
Tea as a Protectant in Human Cancer
Introduction
Effects of Tea on the Incidence of Human Cancer
Interaction of Genetic Actions in Carcinogenesis in Humans
Conclusion
References
Cancer Prevention by Cancer Regression and Rejuvenation of Hosts Defense System: Dual Role of Tea: Introduction
Cancer and the Intrinsic Defense Machinery of the Host: A Tug-of-War; Dietary Therapy; Why Tea?
Tea and its Constituents - A Historic View; Hypothesis
Conclusion
Acknowledgement
References
Black Tea as an Antidote for Cigarette Smoke-induced Oxidative Damage of Proteins
Introduction
Materials and Methods
Results
Discussion
Acknowledgement
References
Cancer Chemoprevention by Tea Polyphenols
Introduction
Acknowledgements
References
Osteoporosis - An Overview: Its Possible Therapeutic Management by Phyto-oestrogens: Inhibitors of Bone Resorption; Oestrogen; Calcitonin; Biphosphonates
New Approaches to Inhibition of Bone Resorption
Osteoporosis and Phyto-oestrogens
Concluding Remarks
References
Tea and Health: Beyond Hype
The Core Compounds
Flavonoids in Tea Infusion
Antioxidant Activity of Tea Flavonoids
Tea Flavonoids and Cancer
Caveats
Key Points
A Swot Analysis
References
Appendix I: Chemical Composition of Fresh Tea Flush
Frequently Asked Questions
Glossary
Index
Biography
Banerjee, B ; Chaudhuri, T.C.
