What is it about a cup of tea that draws us from a chair to fill a kettle with water, wait for it to boil, stuff leaves into a strainer or choose from a selection of packets, then bide our time as the beverage brews? For tea aficionados the hot, earth-colored liquid is the cure-or temporary respite-for nearly every ailment: the common cold, depression, anxiety, upset stomach. Folklore and ancient wisdom have proclaimed the health benefits of tea throughout the ages, and now scientific studies from centers and universities around the world support many of these claims.

The flavonoids in green, black, white, and oolong teas are believed to have antioxidant properties which neutralize free radicals in the body, which may reduce the risk of heart attacks, stroke, and certain cancers. (Herbal teas-or tisanes-are not really teas at all but infusions of flowers, leaves, seeds, and roots of plants other than the tea bush.) Tea drinking may lower cholesterol, ward off infection and disease by strengthening the immune system, and it may inhibit the plaque-forming ability of bacteria on teeth. Consuming tea may also reduce the risk of osteoporosis, and new research suggests it is a preventative against skin cancer.

Dried tea leaves contain vitamins and minerals, and when you steep the leaves you release carotene, thiamin (vitamin B1), riboflavin (vitamin B2), nicotinic acid, pantothenic acid, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), vitamin B6, folic acid, manganese, potassium, and fluoride into your cup. Pour a spoonful of raw honey into the infusion and add a few more vitamins and minerals, plus naturally occurring antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. According to the George Mateljan Foundation for the World's Healthiest Foods, daily consumption of honey raises blood levels of protective antioxidant compounds in humans-which gives one more reason to sweeten the pot. (Added bonus: Local honey contains pollen from local flora, boosting anti allergen and immune system response.) Whether or not you consider the scientific claims on your teeth, heart, and bloodstream as you sip, or simply enjoy the ritual, teatime is one more key to healthy living.