Bamboo is an incredible plant with unique properties and applications much wider than you can imagine. The use of bamboo is almost limitless as this raw material is now being used in almost every industry. It is an excellent building material, a wonderful solution for clothing and household goods, and is widely used in culinary. As a food, bamboo is especially popular in Asian countries, where there are many different species of the plant. And not only bamboo shoots are used in cooking but also its leaves. Even if these are not edible, you can make a wonderful tea with bamboo leaves that have outstanding health benefits. In this article, we will reveal the secrets of a bamboo drink.
What Is Bamboo Tea?
Bamboo tea is a relatively young invention. People discovered this beneficial drink not so long ago. However, bamboo tea has quickly become widespread thanks to its salutary effect on the human body. Bamboo tea is produced from the fresh leaves of the bamboo plant. They are collected by hand, then rinsed thoroughly with clean water. After it, the leaves go through several technological processes, including drying and grinding. Finally, the leaves are packed in boxes or bags as ordinary tea. Bamboo tea is prepared in the same way as other tea products. You need a glass of boiling water and two tablespoons of bamboo tea leaves. The water should not be lower than 90 °. The drink reminds me of green tea and has a pleasant grassy flavor.
The Chinese have been drinking this tea for centuries. They believe that bamboo helps preserve Chi energy, relieves depression and prolongs life. And these are not trivial statements. The benefits of bamboo leaf drinks are scientifically proven. Studies carried out by the Seoul University proved the medicinal properties of the drink as the bamboo leaf turned out to have a rich biochemical composition. Its high concentration of vitamin C, micronutrients, amino acids and polyphenols makes it a valuable addition to a healthy diet. Furthermore, the affordable price and absence of caffeine make it possible to drink this tea every day and in unlimited quantities.
Why Bamboo Tea Is Good for Hair Growth?
The beneficial effect of bamboo tea for hair growth is worth mentioning separately. What makes bamboo an exclusive raw material for hair cosmetics and care? Bamboo leaves are one of the richest natural sources of silicon or silica. And this mineral is great for maintaining hair and nail health. It is a building block of collagen. So it plays a vital role in ensuring the elasticity of the skin and hair. Silicon dioxide in bamboo tea keeps cells healthy and works better than any food supplement.
But it is not the only beneficial ingredient in bamboo. It has a rich antioxidant, vitamin and trace element composition. In particular, these are Vitamin C, folic acid, thiamine, riboflavin and niacin. All of these vitamins are essential for fast hair growth. Ittr is vital to develop a habit of consuming the drink daily to achieve a noticeable result of bamboo tea for hair. You will be able to see the positive changes already in a month’s time.
Bamboo is most widely used by Korean cosmetologists in products to strengthen and improve the structure of the hair. Moreover, it is a popular moisturizing ingredient in anti-aging cosmetics, allowing tired and mature skin to stay hydrated for a long time. It is also widely used in skin modeling, improving its tone, fighting the orange peel effect, restoring the skin after pregnancy, reducing its swelling and decreasing capillary permeability.
Health Benefits of Bamboo Tea
Bamboo has long been considered a symbol of strength, energy, happiness and health. The main properties of bamboo were recorded in the ancient pharmaceutical text of the Ming dynasty (1368-1644). Chinese healers described bamboo tea's benefits as follows - it is cool, sweet, non-toxic, thirst-quenching, improving blood circulation, and adding Chi energy. And over time, these properties have been scientifically proven.
Bamboo is a great source of silica
The plant is overloaded with vegetable silica. In the human body, this mineral is abundant in bones, hair, and skin. Silica properties are amazing:
- Silicon is the second important chemical component of the human body after oxygen;
- Silicon ensures the absorption of most minerals and microelements, and if your body suffers from its deficiency, 80 out of 110 elements will not be assimilated;
- All metabolic processes take place with the active participation of silicon;
- Silicic acid helps assimilate more than 70% of chemical elements, providing a person with up to 40% of health. It plays a role of a catalyst for most chemical reactions. And scientists name silicon an element of life;
- This mineral is responsible for tuning all brain-body processes that are happening with the body throughout the life - from the moment of laying the fetus, growth, development, healthy life, and slows down the processes of premature aging;
Bamboo effectively fights many diseases
This easy-to-prepare drink can boost therapy of many painful conditions.
- Positively treats lung diseases and heartburn
Bamboo leaves are extremely beneficial for the health of the digestive system and for those suffering from lung and heart problems. If you have chest pains or digestive problems, then bamboo tea will help a lot. It will calm down fever, relieve heartburn, improve the condition of the lungs and heart. Besides, the tea is an excellent diuretic that will help cope with problems of the genitourinary system.
- Helps with respiratory system disorders
Bamboo tea with honey is beneficial for the respiratory system. The leaves contain many useful elements - proteins, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, carbohydrates, etc. The tea brings immediate relief and improves your breath.
- Normalizes blood sugar levels
Bamboo leaves can balance out blood sugar levels. They also promote weight loss and prevent the development of diabetes. Research has shown that bamboo leaves contain soluble dietary fiber that helps control and normalize blood sugar levels. These fibers will also help the body flush out toxins.
- Heals wounds and skin damages
Bamboo is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. And the high composition of silica boosts these qualities. It stimulates collagen production and contributes to faster wound repair. Strong bamboo tea can be applied in the form of compresses or wraps.
Bamboo tea prevents the development of many diseases
Regular use of bamboo drinks will protect you from many negative states that people develop with age.
- Protects against cholesterol
A drink from bamboo leaves and plant shoots will reduce blood cholesterol levels. It will also improve digestive tract function due to the presence of a decent amount of fiber in the product.
- Increases male fertility
Research has shown that the leaves of the plant are effective in improving the reproductive function of men. Ethanol extract contained in bamboo improves male strength. That is why bamboo tea is highly recommended for male health.
- Neutralizes the action of free radicals
Bamboo is known for its antioxidant properties. Every day, free radicals penetrate our bodies via chemicals, air pollution and low-quality food. Bamboo tea contains minerals and vitamins, which efficiently protect the body from the effects of free radicals. It is advisable to drink bamboo tea for those of you looking to block and minimize the free radical influence. You can take this drink every day without harm to your health. It contains nutrients and antioxidants that keep cells from damage.
- Improves immunity
The ability of bamboo leaves to improve overall health is one of their best qualities. The leaves do not contain hazardous ingredients such as caffeine. They are great for making tea. You can prepare the drink and add lemon, mint or jasmine to it. The scent of mint and jasmine will give you a feeling of freshness and tranquility. This way, bamboo leaves will benefit both your body and your soul.
- Boosts bone and hair health
Bamboo is grown free of chemicals and pesticides, making it great for cooking and healing. Besides, the rich composition of silicon dioxide strengthens all cells in the body. Bamboo tea for hair has been popular since ancient times in Asian countries, and now this natural remedy is popular all over the world. And it is also beneficial for bone and dental health and prevents bone damage.
Bamboo Tea Flavors
Pure bamboo leaves without additives are characterized by lightness and freshness. And if you are a fan of more pronounced flavors and aromas, bamboo pairs well with other teas, fruits and vegetables. Bamboo enhances the taste of Shu Pu-erh tea and gives it more strength. Its leaves are also good with red tea.
Bamboo tea with ice tastes especially well in summer. To make the drink more sophisticated and healthy, you may slice and add your favorite fruits to it. You will enjoy it with pineapple, strawberries, and cucumber. You can even invent your own recipe based on your taste preferences.
Traditionally, you can add honey or sugar to sweeten the drink as it is rather neutral.
How to Blend Bamboo Tea?
Bamboo leaves do not have a distinct taste and aroma, and they can be favorably combined with other herbs. There are many tea blends on the market that include bamboo leaves. The most popular variants are:
- Bamboo mint tea
Mint herb is famous for its unique aroma. Young leaves of mint contain essential oils that have a healing effect on the skin, hair, nails, and therefore they are widely used in cosmetology. And a daily morning cup of bamboo mint tea will improve and refresh the complexion and clear the breath. And a cup of this tea in the evening will promote better and deeper sleep.
- Lemon ginger bamboo tea
A combination of ginger and lemon is a powerful vitamin-enriched product. This mix invigorates and fills the body with energy and extra strength. Ginger and lemon will add a pleasant sharpness with a hint of sweetness to your bamboo drink. This drink copes well with fatigue.
- Green bamboo tea
Green tea is rich in various ingredients and biologically active substances, such as tea polyphenols, various trace elements, vitamins. Green tea with bamboo leaves works well with high blood cholesterol, hypertension, obesity. It also helps improve metabolism.
Bamboo Tea Side Effects
Moderate consumption of bamboo tea is absolutely safe. But to stay on the safe side, it is advisable to consult your doctor before using any herb. It is especially vital for people suffering from allergies and pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Some studies also warn people with thyroid disorders to use bamboo products with extreme care not to worsen their state.
FAQ
Does bamboo tea contain caffeine?
Bamboo leaves are completely caffeine-free. Thus, a bamboo drink is absolutely safe for everyone, including children. You can consume it in any quantity and at any time of the day as it will not keep you awake. Plus, it perfectly quenches the thirst.
Does bamboo tea contain sugar?
Bamboo leaves are sugar-free. Those who must control their sugar intake or need to limit sugar consumption can drink bamboo tea without limits. It is a great refreshing alternative to plain water.
What is the most valuable ingredient in bamboo tea?
Bamboo is a source of the most bioavailable form of silicon, also known as silica. Silicon is essential for the functioning of the protein: collagen and elastin, which form the basis of connective tissue. Silicon prevents the deposition of cholesterol, ensures the permeability and elasticity of the vascular walls. Besides, this mineral intensifies the powerful effect of bamboo tea for hair growth.
How to prepare a bamboo drink?
You can steep tea in several steps:
- Take two tablespoons of bamboo leaves for a 2-cup teapot;
- Either heat the mixture until it boils, or use already boiling water to cover the leaves;
- Allow it to steep for five minutes;
- Filter the drink through a strainer;
- Sweeten the tea with some sugar or honey.
Conclusion
The bamboo drink is not yet very widespread in the western world, but the bamboo leaf component can already be found in many tea blends on the market. A list of bamboo tea benefits is really impressive. This drink can act as a natural antioxidant. Doctors strongly recommend adding bamboo tea to the menu in the spring, when the body needs vitamins. Bamboo tea side effects are zero, so give it a try by finding a blend to your taste and enjoy its healing effect.
