Jasmine tea is popular around the globe – and not only for its good taste. It is known to have many health benefits that include improved cardiovascular health, a stronger immune system, and the prevention of diabetes. Some research has shown positive improvement in the digestive process and cholesterol-lowering properties. It has also been found to eliminate harmful bacteria and ease chronic inflammation.
Health Benefits of Jasmine Tea
Along with its unique aroma and taste, jasmine tea has many beneficial qualities that may help to reduce stress and cardiovascular issues and may improve the digestive system. Let’s take a look at them in detail.
May Aid in Weight Loss
Jasmine Tea is known to accelerate metabolism and promote weight loss. Research suggests that Jasmine tea’s antioxidant properties may boost metabolism by 4–5% through thermogenesis, which can burn fat by up to 16%. These effects are attributed to the presence of caffeine and the polyphenol epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) in jasmine tea.
While jasmine tea can be a valuable addition to your weight loss journey, it is important to note that it works best as a complementary element alongside other weight loss techniques. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Review highlights that green tea alone may not significantly impact weight reduction, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to weight loss. [1] [2] [3] [4]
Possible Antioxidant Properties
Jasmine tea is praised for its delicate flavor and like all teas made from the Camellia sinensis plant, it contains antioxidants. The antioxidant profile of jasmine tea depends on the type of tea used as a base. For example, black tea has high levels of theaflavins while green tea has high levels of catechins. [5]
The most notable antioxidants found in jasmine tea are catechins, particularly the epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). As per research, they aid in weight loss, blood sugar control, and heart and oral health while reducing inflammation.
[6] [7] [8] [9] [10] [11]
Jasmine tea is loaded with antioxidants, which makes it a healthy addition to the diet. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
May Boost Immune System
The immune system is the first line of defense against all types of illnesses, so bolstering it can benefit the body in countless ways. Jasmine tea may help to protect the immune system with its possibly anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
An animal study published in the Journal of Life Sciences revealed that jasmine green tea is a rich source of natural polyphenol antioxidants including those such as epicatechin (EC), epicatechin gallate, and others, which act as a potential theaurepetic agent for autoimmune diseases. Sipping jasmine tea regularly can help strengthen the immune system and lower the risk of such chronic diseases. [12] [13]
May Improve Heart Health
For those with a personal or family history of cardiovascular issues, jasmine tea can be a huge help in preventing further problems. According to a study in the American Heart Association journal, the catechins in jasmine tea can help lower blood pressure and improve blood vessel function. [14]
May Help Manage Diabetes
Jasmine tea, particularly when derived from green tea, emerges as a potential ally in diabetes management.
Green tea-based jasmine tea contains EGCG, a powerful compound known to enhance insulin activity and reduce blood sugar levels. Multiple studies support these claims, demonstrating reduced fasting blood sugar and a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes with regular green tea consumption. [15] [16] [17]
For those at risk of or already managing type 2 diabetes, a cup of jasmine tea could offer valuable support. Its abundance of ECGC compounds can help the body utilize insulin effectively and maintain healthier blood sugar levels.
May Help Relieve Stress
The olfactory system is often something we overlook, but it can be a very powerful sense. Studies have shown that the odor of jasmine can be very beneficial to improving mood in certain test subjects. Subjects who have a natural predilection for the fragrance of this flower have a parasympathetic response to the odor and their body releases chemicals that allow them to naturally relax or improve their mood. However, the smell of jasmine is what some call “an acquired taste”, and some studies have shown that people who don’t enjoy the smell can become anxious if exposed to it in high intensities. If it is a scent that appears to relax you, it’s just another boon to its benefits! [18]
May Prevent Gastrointestinal Disorders
Green tea is rich in polyphenolic compounds, with catechins as its major component. According to one study published in the European Journal of Pharmacology, catechins present in jasmine tea have positive effects on multiple areas of health, including the gastrointestinal system. They activate several intracellular antioxidants and interact well with the gastrointestinal enzymes to promote healthy bowel function. [19]
May Reduce Pain
In holistic medicine, one of the positive effects of jasmine tea is that it is thought to help in the reduction of chronic discomfort associated with joint pain and arthritis. The anti-inflammatory nature of certain organic elements in the tea may reduce minor swelling and inflammation of your joints by inhibiting unwanted cellular oxygenation. For any more serious pain and swelling, see a medical professional immediately. [20]
Possible Antibacterial Properties
Jasmine tea, which is occasionally formed by simply adding jasmine essential oil to tea buds, can provide a defense against bacterial infections. A study published in the Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences found that, in certain test subjects, the properties of jasmine oil can eliminate the effects of E. coli, a very dangerous bacterium commonly found in poorly preserved foods or unsanitary cooking conditions. It may also provide relief from cough, cold, and throat infections. [21]
Side Effects
Let us look at the possible side effects of this tea.
May cause pregnancy complications: Although many aromatherapy techniques are popular during pregnancy, the strong odor and chemicals of jasmine tea are not recommended while you are pregnant. There have been cases where the use of jasmine tea or essential jasmine oil (sometimes used to make the tea) has caused premature contractions in pregnant women. Consult your doctor before adding this tea to your diet.
Intestinal discomfort: Many people choose to use jasmine tea to boost their metabolism or even as a workout aid to stimulate additional weight loss, but it is highly acidic, so consuming it on an empty stomach to spur on weight loss or metabolic function can cause intestinal pain or discomfort.
Caffeine: Despite its relaxing and mood-altering properties, jasmine tea is a source of caffeine, which is a stimulant that affects people in different ways. Caffeine is meant to block certain neurotransmitters in the brain, which causes the feelings of alertness or energy that most people want from caffeine. However, some people are very sensitive to the effects of caffeine, particularly in large doses. Consult your doctor or use your experience with other caffeinated products before adding jasmine tea to your diet or buy a caffeine-free version instead. Loose-leaf varieties of jasmine tea are typically not available without caffeine, but some teabag varieties are, so it is worth looking into them.
