Snapple & Health
Glossary
- Antioxidants
Help prevent and repair damage caused by free radical attacks; growing scientific evidence suggests that the antioxidant effects of the flavonoids in tea are important in helping to prevent some forms of cancer.
- Bergamot Orange
A fragrant citrus fruit.
- Bruised/Broken/Crushing the Leaves
Enables enzymes in the leaves to be exposed to oxygen resulting in oxidation or fermentation; a process that occurs after leaves are plucked.
- Camellia Sinensis
The tea bush.
- Catechins
The most important component in the polyphenol family; a type of flavonoid found primarily in tea (highest amount in green tea), cocoa and wine; an example of a catechin is EGCG.
- Drying/Firing
Stops the oxidation process and occurs after the crushing process.
- EGCG
Epigallocatechin gallate is a catechin found in the highest concentration in green tea. Research is underway to determine the effect of purified EGCG extract on metabolism.
- Essential Oils
Also called aromatic oils and found in tea leaves; they evaporate once contact is made with brewing water and thus responsible for the tea's flavor and fragrance.
- Fermentation/Oxidation
A chemical reaction that occurs between the air and leaf's natural juices as a result of bruising or crushing. The amount of oxidation depends upon how much of the enzymes are exposed and how long.
- Flavonoids
A large subclass of polyphenols (thousands) that is responsible for the tea's color as well as health benefits.
- L-theanine
Unique amino acid found in green tea which promotes relaxation without drowsiness, promotes concentration and reduces the side effects of caffeine (according to preliminary data). Theanine is found almost exclusively in tea.
- Polyphenols
Thousands of plant compounds with antioxidant activity which are responsible for tea's taste. Emerging science suggests they may play an important role in long-term health. Two types of polyphenols are flavonoids and nonflavonoids.
- Rolling
Enables the leaves surface to break open thus allowing the remaining moisture to escape.
- Rooibos
African word meaning red bush.
- Tip
Young leaf, often with gold, silver or white color.
- Wither
Allows the water to evaporate/air dry.