High tea, an elixir for all

Tea with two sugars: the only thing that can lure me out of bed in the morning (Wesley Snipes in the next room would come a close second). Aside from my unwavering demand for a builder's strength brew, though, Britain's tea drinking habits seem to be becoming more and more refined.

As well as more exotic blends of black tea, green, herbal and fruit teas are proving the mug of choice for discerning drinkers. Witness tea giant Tetley's recent diversification into the market, offering treats such as Camomile Smile and Rooibos & Vanilla.

It could have something to do with the fact health claims for tea are becoming bolder. Regular tea drinkers may be reducing their cholesterol levels and preventing cardiovascular disease, helping to prevent sun damage and tooth decay and even lessening the risk of some cancers, according to a handful of recent reports.

Antioxidants

Green tea's healthiest component is its polyphenols: powerful natural antioxidants that shield the body from environmental damage. In the Far East, it is drunk daily to relieve fatigue and maintain good health, although over here it's still considered something of an acquired taste (try it with lemon).

Tannin-free, mineral-rich rooibos is a bit of a newcomer to us: known as red tea in its native South Africa, it has been credited with helping all sorts of ailments, including insomnia, nervous tension, mild depression, stomach cramps, constipation, allergic symptoms and skin irritations. Recent tests suggest it has virus-fighting qualities and helps reduce joint and muscle swelling - both good for athletes.

Drink up

Peppermint and camomile teas have long been considered healthy drinks: the former acts as a cleansing digestive tonic; the latter is valued as a de-stressing means to a restful night's sleep and has benefits for your digestion.

Alternatively, you could smother yourself in the stuff. More people are cottoning on to the fact that the healing properties in the humble cuppa can do wonders for your outsides as well as your insides and the beauty product range has grown accordingly.

Green tea easily leads the way in the beauty stakes. The superior, and therefore more expensive, Chinese white tea has its disciples, too - Origins promotes its white tea products as 'bubble wrap for the skin'.

But there are less costly ways of tapping into the health and beauty properties of tea: there's a whole spa's worth of ideas lurking in your kitchen cupboard. Note you should always choose teas without additives for these treatments.