We’ve all been told that “tea is good for you.” Whether it was your grandma, a colleague or your favourite wellness influencer, it’s something we almost always hear as someone near and dear pours us a cuppa. But have you ever stopped to ask "What makes tea so healthy, really?"
While the answer might not be shocking, it is interesting. So let’s steep on it for a minute, or three…
The answer, in large part, comes down to antioxidants. These natural compounds, found in your tea, help your body protect and restore itself from the wear and tear of daily life. Putting our science hats on for a second, antioxidants fight off free radicals, which are unstable molecules your body produces in response to things like pollution, stress, UV rays and even simple body functions like digestion. Over time, these free radicals can damage your cells and speed up aging, inflammation, and even chronic diseases.
While your body already has built-in mechanisms to deal with this, drinking tea gives your system some well-deserved backup. Think of it like this: your body’s already doing the heavy lifting, but a cup of tea is like your mate showing up with a toolbox and some helping hands, just when things start to get a bit wobbly. And here’s the cool part: tea is one of the richest natural sources of antioxidants (like your strongest mate), with some types containing more antioxidant power than fruits and vegetables. "In fact, research indicates that tea contains up to ten times more antioxidants than many fruits and vegetables, making it a powerful ally in your wellness routine."
What Are Antioxidants in Tea?
Antioxidants are naturally occurring compounds, found in many plant-based foods and drinks, that help protect your body from oxidative stress — almost like an internal “rusting” caused by free radicals.
In tea, they show up in the form of polyphenols. Green tea is abundant in catechins like EGCG, while black tea, through fermentation, transforms these into theaflavins and thearubigins — both offering robust antioxidant benefits.
Catechins, particularly a type called EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), are among the most potent antioxidants out there. Theaflavins and thearubigins, created during fermentation, are also strong antioxidant compounds.
Research has shown that these tea polyphenols may help fight cell damage, reduce inflammation, and offer protection against certain diseases. In fact, EGCG is so powerful, it’s been studied for use in sunblock formulas because of its ability to absorb UV rays and prevent skin damage. Tea — protecting you inside and out.
Real Health Benefits of Tea Antioxidants
So what do all these big words mean to you? Here’s what your daily cup of tea might actually be doing behind the scenes:
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Defending Your Cells
Antioxidants neutralise free radicals that can cause cellular damage, potentially helping to lower your risk of developing chronic conditions like heart disease and Alzheimer’s. -
Supporting Heart Health
Several large studies have found that regular tea consumption can lower LDL cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease. -
Giving Your Skin a Glow-Up
Turns out, tea might be the most low-maintenance skincare out there. The polyphenols in green tea help dial down inflammation and oxidative stress — two of the main culprits behind dullness, breakouts, and early wrinkles. "EGCG not only combats internal oxidative stress but also protects the skin from UV-induced damage, supporting skin health from the inside out." -
Possibly Helping Reduce Cancer Risk
While research is ongoing, studies suggest that catechins in green tea could help prevent the growth of certain cancer cells (Source: PMC – Green Tea and Cancer Prevention).
That’s why Dilmah supports initiatives like the Cup of Kindness, focusing on community health and wellness in partnership with the Cancer Council.
Green Tea vs Black Tea – Which Has More Antioxidants?
Both green and black teas are rich in antioxidants, but they differ in type and concentration:
| Tea Type | Main Antioxidants | What you Should Know |
| Green Tea | Catechins (esp. EGCG) |
Minimal processing means higher antioxidant concentration |
| Black Tea | Theaflavins, Thearubigins |
Fermented, slightly lower levels but still beneficial |
Green tea might win in antioxidant density due to minimal oxidation, but don’t discount black tea - it’s still packed with polyphenol power.
👉Try our Green Tea Range
👉Browse our Black Tea Collection
Does Brewing Method Affect Antioxidant Content?
Absolutely. Brewing your tea the right way unlocks its full potential — antioxidants and all. Here's how to make the most of every sip:
- Use hot (not boiling) water – Aim for around 80–90°C. Boiling water can be a bit aggressive and may damage those delicate compounds. Think spa day, not pressure cooker.
- Steep for 2–5 minutes – Let it sit too short, and you miss out. Too long, and it might get a little bitter. 2–5 minutes is just right, Goldilocks.
- Go easy on the sugar – A little sweetness is fine, but too much and you're inviting the wrong crowd. Excess sugar can dull the benefits, so let the tea do the talking.
- Loose leaf if you can – When the leaves are left whole, the goodness flows freely. That means more leaf, more flavour, and more of the good stuff your body’s actually after.
Shop Antioxidant-Rich Teas
Looking to make tea part of your wellness routine? Here are some of our favourites packed with antioxidants:
🍃 Green Tea Collection
🖤 Black Tea Collection
🌿 Oolong Teas
🌸 Herbal Infusions
🌱 Wellness Range
Each blend is ethically sourced, freshly packed, and crafted with care to support both flavour and function.
Final Thoughts
Antioxidants in tea are just one part of what makes tea a daily ritual that’s genuinely good for you. Whether you prefer green, black, or oolong, each sip supports your body in small but powerful ways.
With every cup, you’re doing something kind for yourself: feeding your cells, calming your system, and maybe even preventing future health issues.
Next time you brew a cup, know that you're not just enjoying a moment of calm — you’re doing something good for your body too.
Explore our antioxidant-rich teas.
Your kettle’s already halfway there.
