We've all heard about the health benefits of drinking tea, but what exactly are those benefits? Do all teas offer them?

First of all, tea is the second most consumed beverage in the world (after water). Black, green, white, pu-erh and oolong teas all come from the same plant - camellia sinensis. It's an evergreen-like bush or tree that grows primarily in warmer climates. What produces the different tea varieties is how the tea leaves are processed after they're harvested.

Tea leaves pack a load of chemical substances called polyphenols, which are antioxident powerhouses. Many of the polyphenols found in tea are even more powerful than those found in some fruits and vegetables. Research tells us that polyphenols may protect against cardiovascular disease and cancer. As you brew your tea, the polyphenols slowly release from the tea leaves as they steep in your teapot.

Herbal teas and red rooibos teas are technically not derived from the camellia sinensis plant. In fact, most of these "teas" are really not teas at all. They're infusions of herbs, spices, flowers, buds, etc that many people love for their relaxing and calming effects, but they do not contain the polyphenols that tea from the camellia sinensis plant does.

Just a quick note on caffeine - an average cup of tea contains about 40mg of caffeine versus 85mg for a cup of coffee. Black tea contains more caffeine than green or white tea.

Anna, the Seventh Duchess of Bedford, started the tradition of afternoon tea around the year 1840. As they say, necessity is the mother of invention. In those days, the evening meal would be served around 7:00pm - 8:30 pm, so it was understandable that most people would get hungry in the late afternoon. So Anna requested that a pot of tea and some bread and butter be brought to her room around 4:00 pm. Since then, it has become a much more elaborate ritual that includes tea sandwiches, scones and light pastries. Click here for more information on afternoon tea, high tea.

Why don't you try brewing a cup of this healthful beverage today?