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Real tea is made only from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant and is drunk either in its black form (when the leaves have not been fermented) or in its green form (when the leaves have been fermented). Peppermint, rooibos or camomile and other so-called teas are not tea, they are herbal infusions.

A great volume of recent research has testified to the health-enhancing qualities of green tea. Now black tea has also come up for scrutiny, and the findings are good news.

Here's why your ordinary cup of tea offers many of the same health benefits:

Tea is a wonderfully rich source of antioxidants. They neutralise free radicals, which cause cell damage, resulting in everything from the normal ageing process, to cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Tea contains polyphenols. Research suggests that they reduce tumour development, particularly in cancer of the skin, lung, stomach, colon and bladder. Polyphenols can also help reduce cholesterol and lipid levels in the blood and prevent blood clotting. This guards against potentially fatal clots in the veins and arteries, which could lead to heart attack and/or stroke.

The polyphenols in tea help fight oral disease by inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease.

Tea is rich in manganese and potassium, minerals that are essential for bone growth and a healthy heart. Tea is a natural source of fluoride, which your body needs to ward off osteoporosis. This benefit is enhanced when tea is taken with milk, adding essential calcium to your diet.

Sugary tea is the best cure for dehydration, because it's absorbed into the bloodstream quicker than water.Go ahead, indulge! You are doing body and soul a favour.

The downside. Drinking large amounts of tea can interfere with your iron absorption. Don't drink it with your iron supplements or an iron-rich meal. You can still enjoy its antioxidant benefits between meals.

Tea and caffeine. Tea has less caffeine than coffee, but if you want a caffeine kick from your cuppa, let it draw for less than 20 seconds. If it draws for longer, other substances in the tea become active and reduce the caffeine content.