4 Surprising Health Benefits of Earl Grey Tea
Tsara Tea – Earl Grey tea is more than just an elegant afternoon drink — it’s a flavorful way to support your health. Made from black tea leaves infused with the fragrant oil of the bergamot orange, Earl Grey delivers a unique blend of antioxidants, caffeine, and citrus compounds that can boost both body and mind.
Here’s what the latest research says about why you might want to make Earl Grey a daily ritual.
1. Packed With Antioxidants That Fight Inflammation
Black tea — the base of Earl Grey — contains powerful antioxidants, including theaflavins, thearubigins, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and tea polysaccharides.
These compounds help neutralize free radicals, unstable molecules that can damage cells, accelerate aging, and contribute to chronic inflammation. Reducing oxidative stress may lower your risk of heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders.
2. May Protect Against Chronic Diseases
Heart Health
Studies suggest regular black tea drinkers have lower blood pressure and reduced risk of heart failure and stroke. Both systolic and diastolic readings can improve with daily tea consumption, making it a heart-friendly habit.
Cancer Risk
Research involving millions of participants has linked daily black tea consumption to a lower risk of ovarian cancer in women and potentially reduced risk of oral cancers. The tea’s polyphenols appear to protect cells from DNA damage.
Mood Support
Earl Grey’s combination of caffeine and the amino acid L-theanine may boost neurotransmitters like dopamine, supporting a more balanced mood and lowering the risk of depression.
3. A Natural Performance Enhancer
With about 47 mg of caffeine per cup (roughly half that of coffee), Earl Grey offers a gentle energy lift without the jitters. The caffeine can improve endurance, reaction time, and overall exercise performance.
For active individuals, this makes Earl Grey a smart pre-workout drink — especially when paired with its antioxidant benefits, which may help reduce exercise-induced oxidative stress.
4. Supports Brain Health and Cognition
Black tea has been linked to a reduced risk of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. Caffeine’s neuroprotective effects and black tea’s polyphenols may help preserve cognitive function as you age.
Short-term, caffeine can sharpen mental focus, memory, and processing speed — making a cup of Earl Grey a great choice before work or study sessions.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Caffeine sensitivity: More than 400 mg of caffeine daily may cause insomnia, anxiety, or rapid heartbeat.
- Bergamot oil: In very high doses, bergamot can cause muscle cramps or tingling sensations, though typical tea levels are safe.
- Iron absorption: Black tea can reduce absorption of non-heme (plant-based) iron if consumed with meals — try drinking it between meals instead.
How to Enjoy Earl Grey
You can brew Earl Grey from loose leaves or tea bags. Steep 1 teaspoon (or 1 bag) in freshly boiled water for 3–5 minutes. It’s delicious plain, but you can also add milk, honey, or a slice of lemon.
For a twist, try London Fog — Earl Grey with steamed milk and vanilla.
Earl Grey isn’t just a classic tea blend — it’s a health-boosting beverage that supports heart, brain, and mood health while providing a smooth energy lift. By making it part of your daily routine, you can enjoy both the flavor and the long-term benefits