It is estimated that the China gets through more than 165 million cups a day, which is good news as research suggests that as well as being our favourite drink, tea may also be packed with health benefits.

Tea has been drunk in various forms around the world for more than 4,000 years, with Far Eastern civilisations developing tea-making into something approaching an art form.

AdvertisementComing from the camellia family, the tea plant is an ever-green tropical shrub and, just like wine, different growing conditions, soil and climates produce a wide range of flavours.

For most people in this country, black tea is the most commonly found type. This is produced by drying and fermenting the leaves after picking, whereas green tea, which is a popular drink in the Far East is produced by lightly steaming the leaves before they are dried.

Research shows that both varieties of tea are packed with substances known as flavenoids. These flavenoids, which are types of anti-oxidant, are thought to offer some protection against cardiovascular disease and some types of cancer, by protecting against cell damage caused by free radicals.

Tea without milk contains no calories at all, which is great if you're watching your weight, but even with added milk, you will be getting around 16 per cent of your daily calcium intake from each cup as well as some important vitamins and minerals.

A cup of tea with herb can treat some disease, improve physical condition and metabolism, and regain vigor from weakness and fatigue. Herbal tea is a rich source of manganese - essential for bone growth - and is also full of potassium which is vital for maintaining the body's fluid levels. It is also a natural source of fluoride which protects teeth against decay.

Even without the health benefits, it's hard to imagine life without tea, but now, each time you sit down with a brew you will know that you are also looking after your health.

There are more than 15,000 varieties of herbal tea. Here are just a few to whet your appetite:

Arthritis Care Formula herbal tea - Alleviates rheumatic pain, soreness, pain and numbness Dispenses limbs and relives swelling Relieves soreness and painful joins Strengthens the tendons and bones Promotes the circulation of meridians.

Slim Formula herbal tea - Burns fat, reduces blood cholesterol, maintains a normal metabolism, moistens the intestine to help you, reduce weight and stay slim.

Diabetes Formula herbal tea - Improves kidneys, and lungs functions, reduces blood sugar, reinforces the spleen and stomach, preserves vital essence, prevents complications of diabetes.

Prostate Care Formula herbal tea - Improves microcirculation, inhibits the growth of bacteria, inhibits the growth of granuloma, alleviates swelling & inflammation, relieves pain, regulates urination, inhibits the proliferation of fibrous tissus.

Cholesterol/Eyes Care Formula herbal tea - Reguates blood fat, lowers cholesterol level, helps to build immunity, prevents arterioslerosis, improves liver & kidney function.