No matter which season we are in, tea can be a tasty beverage that can be served iced or hot.

As it is one of the most popular liquid refreshments among people, there are countless studies that show the many health benefits contained within tea.

In fact, one study suggests that drinking four to six cups of tea a day is just as good for keeping you hydrated as drinking a liter of water.

From black, green and herbal teas to teas with fruity combinations, there are endless flavors that can accommodate everyone’s taste.

One flavor which seems to have ever-growing popularity is earl grey tea.

Named after Earl Charles Grey, this tea is traditionally a mix of black tea and bergamot.

Its additional citrus flavor which comes from the bergamot orange fruit is what makes this tea so special among tea lovers.

In addition to all this, earl grey tea has a variety of health benefits many may not be aware of.

So, keep reading to find out about the most important ones this tea has to offer.

1. Strengthens the immune system

As we mentioned, earl grey tea is a mix of black tea and bergamot oil derived from the bergamot orange fruit which is most commonly found in Italy. This oil, in particular, is full of antioxidants which help destroy any free radicals that can cause significant damage to your system. Not only do the antioxidants fight against these free radicals, but they also help counter many infections, fever and other chronic diseases.

In addition, the bergamot orange fruit contains high levels of vitamin C which is why earl grey tea is often used as a natural cold remedy.

2. Provides energy

If you aren’t a big fan of coffee, but you still need a pick-me-up drink in the morning, you can opt for earl grey tea to provide you with all the energy you need.

In reality, a cup of earl grey tea contains between 40 and 120 mg of caffeine, or 85 mg on average, which is lower than the caffeine present in a brewed coffee.

Although tea is generally lower in caffeine, it is rich in L-theanine which is an antioxidant that also stimulates the brain.

Therefore, while coffee will undoubtedly give you an instant kick, tea offers a much smoother boost.

3. Relieves stress

While earl gray tea is considered an energy booster, it can instantly relax and soothe your body by relieving any stress symptoms you may be feeling.

Unlike coffee which usually triggers a fight-or-flight response, possibly worsening your anxiety symptoms, the bergamot component in this tea does just the opposite.

In fact, this ingredient has aromatherapy qualities that have a calming effect and lift your mood at the same time.

As a result, drinking earl grey tea is recommended as a natural solution for those who suffer from anxiety and depression.

Also, the presence of L-theanine helps in making you less tense and calmer.

4. Improves digestion

The citrus present in earl grey tea can help with relieving the symptoms of any digestive discomfort.

More specifically, the bergamot orange fruit consists of flavonoids which are powerful antioxidants with anti-inflammatory and immune system benefits.

Earl grey tea consists of these anti-inflammatory properties that help ease gastric problems including colic and nausea.

It works by soothing the stomach muscles that cause cramping when it is constricted.

You can even drink earl grey tea to minimize the symptoms of nausea when you go on long drives by car or before boarding a plane.

5. Prevents heart disease and cancer

Since earl grey tea contains high quantities of antioxidants, it is believed that it can also improve your heart health and lower your high blood pressure.

By drinking this tea, you will be able to lower the blood triglyceride levels as well as your cholesterol which are both linked to heart problems.

In addition to keeping your heart healthy, drinking earl grey tea can help prevent various cancers such as prostate and lung cancer.

This is because this tea fights off the free radicals mentioned before that cause diseases like cancer. 

6. Dental benefits

Another antioxidant present in earl grey tea is catechin which eliminates bacteria in the mouth, prevents cavities from forming and constricts periodontal disease. 

Another natural component of earl grey tea is fluoride which is also found in tap water.

This component is good for your teeth because it also prevents cavities and fights off decay.

However, if you don’t like drinking tap water, you can opt for earl grey tea instead to get your daily dose of fluoride.

Because these two components are very beneficial for your teeth, they are also found in toothpaste and mouthwash to prevent many oral infections.

How to prepare the perfect cup of earl grey tea

There are several steps you should follow in order to make the perfect cup of earl grey tea.

Firstly, you should begin by boiling fresh, cold water in a glass kettle or stainless steel pot.

Secondly, heat the water until it begins to boil and then turn off the heat while you keep the pot warm.

This step is very important because if you pour the water into a cold pot, it will cool very fast.

The third step is deciding on the exact measurement of your tea.

In general, the measurement will vary depending on how strong you like your earl grey tea to be, as well as the size of your cup.

Usually, the proper measure for loose tea is one teaspoon per cup.

The fourth step refers to the steeping time. Most tea lovers let their tea steep for three to five minutes.

However, this may also vary depending on how strong you want your tea to be.

The fifth and final step is serving your earl grey tea either with a slice of lemon or sugar to bring out its bright flavor and show off its deep brown color.

Final thoughts

The many antioxidants and other components present in earl grey tea are very beneficial for the overall health.

If you want to get the most of these benefits, you should drink at least one cup of earl grey tea every day.

Not only will you be hydrated and full of energy throughout the day, but you will also stay healthy and be ready to fight off all kinds of diseases and infections.