DHAKA: Drinking tea can be beneficial mentally, emotionally, socially and physically.

Scientific research testifies to the health benefits of all kinds of tea, which not only help with beauty factors but also weight loss and hydration of skin, reports femalefirst.co.uk says The Times of India.

Experts at the UK Tea & Infusions Association, Tea Advisory Panel (TAP), which provides objective information about tea, have enlisted the beauty secrets behind a cup of tea:

Provides water to skin: Good hydration is important for the health of all our body organs, tissues and cells. 

A recent study suggested that drinking up to six cups of tea per day, has the same hydrating properties to water.

The role of tea in skin health: Healthy skin is well hydrated skin. Drinking enough fluid which can include all types of tea is important for restoring fluid loss which can occur to a greater extent during summer. 

Adequate hydration can help to keep the skin in good condition.

White tea has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory activity in human skin. In one study, human skin cells were exposed in the laboratory to hydrogen peroxide.

White tea was shown to reduce the inflammation that would normally result from hydrogen peroxide exposure.

Tea and weight loss: Tea consumption has been associated with less weight gain over time. Drinking tea more than once a week has been linked to lower body fat percentages and smaller waist circumferences than non-tea drinkers. 

It is also important to note that all teas, including black tea, with semi-skimmed milk and no sugar, is a lower calorie alternative than other popular drinks. 

Tea has been recommended to take precedence over other beverages to help reduce energy intake and maintain hydration.

Tea bags for beauty: While tea has great hydrating properties vital for our skin beauty and helps aid weight loss, the humble tea bag can also offer a host of beauty secrets.

Tea bags soaked in warm water and placed over closed eyes revitalize tired puffy eyes.

Freshly brewed tea as a conditioning final rinse after a shampoo. Peppermint tea makes a great soothing mouthwash.

BDST: 1711 HRS, AUG 25, 2014