Mamaki tea is a type of herbal tea made from the leaves of the mamaki plant. The mamaki plant is native to Hawaii. Mamaki tea has many potential health benefits. Most people believe that it has the benefits of heart health and digestive health and relieves stress. But there is limited scientific research to support these claims. Here you can find the potential benefits of mamaki tea.
Potential benefits of mamaki tea
Rich antioxidant properties
Antioxidants in mamaki leaves neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative damage to cells. It helps prevent diseases. These antioxidants reduce the cellular DNA damage that causes cancer. This process helps prevent cancer.
Cancer occurs when cells grow and divide uncontrollably. Some studies in test tubes and animals show that extracts from mamaki tea can inhibit the proliferation of certain cancer cell lines, including breast cancer and leukemia cells. This suggests it may slow the rapid growth and spread of tumors.
Mamaki leaves contain catechins with high antioxidant properties. Some research has found that this concentration of catechins may have cancer-preventing properties.
Improves digestive health
Catechins are a type of polyphenol, which is a class of plant compounds with antioxidant properties. Catechins are found in various foods, including tea, chocolate, and certain types of fruit.
The catechins contained in mamaki tea are beneficial for the well-being of the digestive system. It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial effects on the digestive system.
According to ancient Hawaiian medicine, mamaki tea is a divine remedy for digestive problems. Some people use mamaki tea to relieve digestive problems such as heartburn, gas, bloating, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Improves heart health
Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is a type of polyphenol, which is a class of plant compounds with antioxidant properties. Chlorogenic acid is found in various foods, including coffee, tea, and certain types of fruit. The mamaki leaves also contain Chlorogenic acid.
Some studies have found that CGA in coffee beans and green tea effectively reduces blood pressure in people with mild hypertension. CGA may also play a role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular problems. Also, Mamaki tea is cholesterol-free.
Relieves stress
Mamaki tea, made from the Pipturus albidus plant, is thought to be a herbal remedy for fatigue, stress, and a “run-down” feeling in Hawaiian culture. Traditional herbalists attribute these potential
Some people in Hawaii drink cold mamaki tea on hot days to refresh and rejuvenate themselves. Mamaki tea is caffeine-free and does not cause caffeine withdrawal symptoms such as lethargy and irritability.
Eliminates toxins
Mamaki is believed to support liver function and detox the body, which may be due to the scavenging activities of catechins and chlorogenic acid it contains.
According to a publication by the University of Hawaii Manoa, the leaves, bark, and stem of mamaki are consumed as a laxative and for blood purification. The fresh and dried leaves are also used as a “cleansing agent.”
May boost immunity
Antioxidants and polyphenols are beneficial compounds derived from plants that play a vital role in supporting the immune system. These compounds offer various advantages to our overall well-being through multiple mechanisms.
Firstly, they combat the harmful effects of free radicals, which are generated when our cells are exposed to external factors such as pollution, radiation, and toxins. The production of free radicals can result in cell damage and contribute to inflammation.
However, the antioxidants found in mamaki tea can neutralize free radicals, preventing them from causing harm and maintaining a healthy balance within the body.
In addition to neutralizing free radicals, these antioxidants also possess anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation can gradually weaken the immune system, making it less effective in protecting the body.
The presence of anti-inflammatory compounds, such as flavonoids, in mamaki tea can help reduce inflammation and promote optimal immune system functioning.
Moreover, antioxidants may play a role in stimulating the production of white blood cells, which are essential components of our immune system responsible for fighting infections and foreign invaders.
Research suggests that antioxidants can enhance the production and activity of white blood cells, including natural killer cells, thereby bolstering the body’s defense against pathogens.
Furthermore, maintaining high levels of antioxidants in the body is crucial for a robust immune response. By consuming mamaki tea, which is rich in antioxidants, individuals can increase their “antioxidant pool.” This infusion of antioxidants into the body can strengthen the immune cells and support the immune system.
Relaxing effects
Mamaki tea has a pleasant aroma and flavor that some people find calming and soothing when they drink it. The warmth of the tea itself can also have a calming physiological effect. Beyond these factors, there are a few ways the compounds in mamaki tea may contribute to its relaxing and stress-reducing properties:
Like green tea, mamaki tea contains the amino acid L-theanine. When consumed, L-theanine can cross the blood-brain barrier and produce calming effects in the brain. It can increase the production of alpha waves, which are linked to feelings of relaxation and reduced mental stress.
As we’ve discussed, mamaki tea contains antioxidants like polyphenols and flavonoids. These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that may relieve some of the physical effects of stress in the body. This can produce an overall sense of relaxation and well-being.
Though research is limited, some evidence exists that compounds in mamaki tea may influence neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and GABA in ways that impact mood, relaxation, and sleep.
Like with any beverage, some of the relaxing effects people experience from mamaki tea may also come from psychological and social factors. The experience of drinking tea in a soothing ritual can be relaxing in and of itself.
What are the medical uses for mamaki?
Here are some potential medical uses of mamaki:
Digestive health:
- Mamaki can help relieve constipation due to its natural laxative properties. The flavonoids and tannins in mamaki stimulate bowel motility and soften stool.
- It can also soothe the gut and ease digestive issues like gas, bloating, and indigestion. This is thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects and ability to stimulate digestive enzymes.
Skin health:
- Mamaki’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds make it useful for treating certain skin conditions. It can help reduce redness, itchiness, and flare-ups associated with acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
Immune system:
- The high concentration of polyphenols and antioxidants in mamaki gives it immune-boosting potential. However, more research is needed to confirm this benefit.
Cancer:
- Preliminary lab studies suggest mamaki may inhibit the growth of some cancer cells. But human trials are needed before we can say it is effective against cancer.
Diabetes:
- Some evidence indicates mamaki may help lower blood sugar levels. However, more research is needed, and people with diabetes should speak to their doctor before taking mamaki.
While mamaki shows promise for various uses, more rigorous human studies are needed. For now, its best-established uses are for digestive health and skin conditions. More evidence is required to confirm potential benefits for immunity, cancer, and diabetes.
FAQ
When should I drink Mamaki tea?
There is no specific time that is best to drink mamaki tea. Some people prefer to drink it in the morning to help wake them up. Some others find it relaxing to drink in the evening before bed. The choice of when to drink mamaki tea is a matter of personal preference. If you want to try mamaki tea for its health benefits, you may want to try drinking it at different times of the day to see how it affects you.
Is mamaki tea good for kidneys?
There is limited scientific research on the effects of mamaki tea on kidney health, and more research is needed to determine whether mamaki tea has any specific kidney benefits.
Some people believe that mamaki tea has diuretic properties, which help increase urine production and flush excess bodily fluids. This could benefit people with conditions such as edema, which is the accumulation of excess fluid in the body.
However, it is important to note that there is limited scientific research on the effects of mamaki tea on kidney health.
Can you drink mamaki tea everyday?
There is no specific suggestion for how often you should drink mamaki tea, but don’t drink more than 3 cups of mamaki tea each day. The appropriate frequency will depend on various factors, such as your individual health needs and goals and any underlying health conditions you have.
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