Properties of Jasmine Tea

Jasmine tea is not a type of tea in its own right. Instead, it is green tea that has had jasmine flowers added in to affect the aroma and taste of the tea. An experiment regarding cancer demonstrated that jasmine tea and sancha tea combined was more effective than either tea alone in preventing angiogenesis.

Effects on Mood

One of jasmine tea's more common uses is in helping the mood. Jasmine tea has been shown to lower stress and cause a calm state. This is done primarily through the odor of the tea. It has also been shown to lower heart rate creating a physical as well as a mental calm. Dr. Ray Sahelian describes the mood caused by jasmine tea as "calm and vigorous." The smell of jasmine tea was only effective in moderately potent tea, not in weaker tea.

As an Antioxidant

Antioxidants are prevalent in jasmine tea. They can boost the immune system, preventing the heavier effects of some illnesses. They can also slow the effects of aging. Antioxidants work by countering the effect that free radicals have on the body. These free radicals come from oxygen as well as other chemicals found in cigarette smoke and other toxins. Taking antioxidants from tea can be more beneficial than from supplements as high doses can cause the opposite effect and encourage oxidation.

Heart Disease

Jasmine tea may be effective in preventing heart disease. Part of this may be a result of the antioxidants within the tea. Jasmine tea can have an effect on heart disease by lowering cholesterol. In the process, the tea can prevent the hardening of arteries. One study that took place in the Netherlands showed that regular intake of green tea, which makes up most of jasmine tea, could help prevent atherosclerosis.

Effects on Cancer

Jasmine teas effects on cancer may also have a lot to do with the antioxidants it contains. According to the "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine," jasmine tea may help prevent oral cancer, prostate cancer and other cancers. As well as preventing cancer, jasmine tea may slow the growth of preexisting cancerous cells and tumors. Injections tested on animals have shown that it may be effective in reducing the size of existing tumors as well.