The Surprising Benefits & Side Effects of Black Tea

Tea is one of the most loved beverages known to mankind. Popular varieties include green tea, black tea, and white tea. All are extracted from the plant Camellia sinensis. However, the difference lies in the way each is processed.

Black tea is famous for its medicinal and health benefits, including its impact on high cholesterol, tooth decay, diarrhea, concentration levels, and digestive issues. It also helps improve blood circulation, regulate blood pressure levels, and alleviate asthma symptoms.

Continue reading to learn more about black tea’s unbelievable benefits.

What Is Black Tea? How Is Black Tea Different from Green or White Tea?

During processing, black tea is oxidized and fermented, giving it its distinct color, flavor, and health benefits. Several top tea brands process and sell black tea powder worldwide.

Characteristics of Black Tea:

• Black tea has a bolder, stronger, and richer flavor profile than green tea.
• The color of brewed black tea can range from amber to dark red-brown.
• The flavor of black tea varies from savory to sweet, depending on the duration of oxidation and the method of heat processing.
• However, since black tea contains the highest degree of tannins, over-steeping may result in excessive bitterness.

Black Tea vs Coffee

Tea drinkers have lower heart risks and higher bone density compared to coffee drinkers (R) due to the high amounts of antioxidants present in tea. Coffee contains more stimulants than tea and is more acidic.

Black Tea vs Green Tea

Black tea and green tea have equal health benefits. Green tea is wilted, partially oxidized, and bruised, giving it a grassy and light flavor. In contrast, black tea has a sweeter and stronger taste (R).

Nutritional Facts of Black Tea

• Black tea is rich in catechins and polyphenols, which help prevent DNA damage and cancer (R).
• Its minimal protein, sodium, and carbohydrate content makes it a healthy choice (R).
• Several studies have proven black tea’s ability to reverse abnormal blood vessel functioning (R).
• It helps prevent strokes and other cardiovascular diseases (R).
• The caffeine present in black tea improves mood (R).
• Research has found that compounds like theaflavins and thearubigins contribute to its health benefits (R).
• According to recent medical research, theaflavins and thearubigins in black tea are packed with health benefits, giving them their distinct flavor and dark color (R).

Also, Read: Coffee vs. Green Tea – Which One Actually Boosts Metabolism More?

How Do People Consume Black Tea?

Sweetening agents like chocolate, spices, or rare herbs can be added while brewing black tea. The Chinese often add sweeteners to black tea, while Indians typically add sugar and milk. Some also add herbs like cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, mulethi, tulsi, and lemongrass.

A few types of black tea include:

• Darjeeling Black Tea
• Keemun Black Tea
• Assam Black Tea
• Yunnan Black Tea
• Ceylon Black Tea
• Earl Grey Black Tea
• Nilgiri Black Tea

These varieties are categorized based on the region where the tea leaves originate.

How to Brew Loose Leaf Black Tea?

Follow the directions on the package, as different tea leaves may require different brewing methods and steeping times. However, a high brewing water temperature is essential for preparing the healthiest black tea.

A study published in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition revealed that adding milk to black tea lowers its antioxidant properties (R)—additionally, boiling black tea at a near-boiling temperature results in the highest antioxidant activity.

How to Brew Black Tea:

1. Boil water in a tea kettle.
2. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of loose black tea to just-boiled water (8 to 12 oz), depending on your preferred strength.
3. Let it steep for 3 to 5 minutes.
4. Serve hot.

Is It Good to Consume Black Tea After a Meal?

Consuming tea or coffee immediately after meals or between meals is not recommended, as the caffeine and tannins present in these beverages can hinder iron absorption. Similarly, it is better to avoid black tea before bed, as black, white, and green tea leaves contain caffeine, which should be avoided before bedtime.

Also, Read: Switching from Coffee to Tea – 15 Benefits You Didn’t Know of

Health Benefits of Black Tea

Black tea is known for its curative properties and health benefits. A few of them are listed below.

1. Prevents Cardiovascular Diseases

Drinking a cup of black tea may help reduce the risk of heart ailments. Several studies (R) have proven the effectiveness of black and green tea extracts in healthy adults and those at high risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

2. As Skin Toner

Black tea has properties that fight free radicals and clear up acne. Its caffeine content helps minimize puffiness. Consuming moderate amounts of black tea daily can contribute to healthy skin.

Black tea also acts as an effective skin toner, protecting against premature aging, accelerating skin regeneration, reducing wrinkles, and soothing the skin.

3. For Hair

The caffeine in black tea helps block DHT, the hormone responsible for hair loss, and promotes the growth of soft and shiny hair.

How to Make a Black Tea Hair Rinse:

1. Add 2-4 tea bags to 2 cups of boiled water.
2. Allow the tea bags to steep for a few hours.
3. Pour the tea over your hair after shampooing.
4. Leave it on for 20 minutes.
5. Rinse off and apply a deep conditioner.

4. Reduces Cholesterol

A study conducted by the American Heart Association in New Orleans revealed that people who consume black tea can reduce their bad cholesterol levels, which are responsible for fatal heart attacks and strokes (R).

The studies (R) say that the risk of dying from cardiovascular conditions such as heart attack and stroke is 9-13% lower among those who drank two cups of black tea daily in comparison to non-tea drinkers.

5. Improves Digestion and Treats Diarrhea

Black tea’s abundant tannins and other chemicals have relaxing and positive effects on the human digestive system. Its anti-inflammatory properties help cure digestive disorders.

Intestinal disorders are believed to heal with black tea due to the presence of tannins (R). Patients with diarrhea are advised to sip plain black tea for quicker recovery.

6. Skin Exfoliation

Black tea is an excellent exfoliator. Prepare a black tea and honey exfoliating mask using 1 tablespoon black tea leaves, 1 tablespoon honey, ¼ cup hot water, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice.

How to Make a DIY Face Mask:

• Pour hot water into a cup containing black tea leaves.
• Allow it to steep for a few minutes, then strain the water.
• Stir in honey and lemon.
• Apply the mixture to the face as a mask.

7. Prevents Breast Cancer

Several studies have revealed that tea extracts or polyphenols can suppress breast cancer. Tea works by raising globulin hormone levels in women during the menstrual cycle (R). Thus, the consumption of green or black tea is believed to prevent cancerous growth in women’s breasts.

Black tea is particularly beneficial for those in the pre-menopausal phase. Theaflavins present in black tea (R) help destroy abnormal cells in the body before significant damage is done.

A study has found an inverse relationship between caffeine intake and breast cancer among postmenopausal women (R).

8. Relieves Asthma

Any brewed hot liquids are believed to provide relief from asthma (R). Similarly, black tea benefits asthmatic patients as it helps expand the air passages and promotes easier breathing. Black tea contains various components like Theophylline, Caffeine, Polyphenols (Flavonoids, Catechins, and Theaflavins), and L-theanine that help alleviate asthma symptoms.

9. Weight Loss

Flavonoids present in black tea help with weight loss (R). However, more research is needed to fully support the impact of black tea on weight loss.

Also, Read: Ginger Tea For Weight Loss – Does It Work?

Side Effects of Black Tea

Black tea is known to cause stomach acidity issues, and drinking it after lunch or dinner may lead to digestion issues.

Overconsumption of black tea may result in sleep problems, nervousness, vomiting, irritability, irregular heartbeat, diarrhea, tremors, heartburn, ringing in the ears, dizziness, convulsions, and confusion.

Black tea is a refreshing and stimulating beverage with numerous health and beauty benefits. However, it is best to consume it in moderation to avoid potential side effects. Enjoy a freshly brewed hot cup of black tea, and stay healthy!

Conclusion

Black tea is popular due to its rich flavor and many health benefits. It works wonders for people with heart problems and helps with digestion, and there are dozens more beauty wellness benefits, like improved skin and hair, while having a healthy cup of black tea on the go.

Black tea is like any other drink; it must be taken in moderation. Consuming black tea beyond limits might lead to side effects, such as acidity problems, insomnia, or digestive discomfort.

Black tea naturally contains antioxidants and basic nutrients. However, as with all good things, a high intake can lead to unwanted health problems. Balancing tea consumption means that an individual will enjoy these perks while avoiding risks.

Savor and appreciate your black cup of tea, and walk on the health bandwagon with a favorable approach.

• Feb 2018
  Written by Sumana Maheswari
• Mar 2025
  Edited by Lakshmi Gayatri