Dietitian Shares 4 Often Overlooked Benefits of Traditional Black Tea

When most people think of ‘tea’, they picture a classic cup of black tea that many grew up drinking, brewed in the morning before school or enjoyed during afternoon catch-ups.

Black tea (referring to regular tea rather than tea without milk) has been one of the preferred hot beverages of choice in South Africa for generations, loved for its taste, affordability, and accessibility.

However, because black tea is such a part of everyday habits, its health benefits are ironically often overlooked in favour of other options like green tea, chamomile or rooibos.

Specialist Dietitian and tea fanatic, Mbali Mapholi, is here to give black tea its time in the sun.

In partnership with Tetley, one of SA’s leading tea brands, Mbali feels it's time to acknowledge the intrinsic benefits of black tea that have often been overlooked.

“Black tea may be traditional, but that doesn’t make it basic!” says Mbali. “It contains powerful natural compounds that support health in a variety of ways. It’s a tea most households already have in their cupboards, so it’s great to realise there are added benefits to this daily comfort.”

Mbali’s guide to the 4 overlooked benefits of black tea

1. A Natural Source of Antioxidants

Black tea contains flavonoids and theaflavins, which are antioxidant compounds that help protect the body’s cells from oxidative stress.

Research has associated regular black tea consumption, as part of a balanced lifestyle, with supporting healthy blood vessels and cardiovascular wellness.

“People often assume they need to turn to expensive supplements for benefits,” says Mbali. “But black tea is rich in antioxidants and has been studied extensively for its role in heart health.”

2. Focus Without the Jitters

Unlike coffee, black tea provides moderate caffeine balanced with an amino acid called L-theanine.

This pairing promotes alertness while supporting calm, focused concentration.

Mbali explains: “It’s a very steady kind of energy. You get mental clarity without the spikes and crashes. That makes black tea ideal for workdays, studying, or even that mid-afternoon slump.”

3. Gentle Digestive Support

Mbali says that black tea’s natural compounds may also assist with digestive comfort and gut balance:

“Importantly, it offers these benefits without added sugars, syrups or artificial ingredients, which makes it a simple and accessible choice for everyday wellness."

4. Versatile Taste

Black tea is incredibly versatile as it can be enjoyed plain, with milk, with lemon, iced, or even incorporated into recipes.

It pairs well with meals, supports hydration, and fits seamlessly into daily routines.

“Even though I don’t always reach for black tea,” Mbali notes, “I recognise its wide-ranging health benefits. I’ve been making a conscious effort to include it more regularly for focus, heart health and digestive support.”

Rediscovering a South African Favourite

While many consumers enjoy Tetley’s blends like Tetley Green Tea, Tetley Decaf, Tetley Chai’s or Tetley Pure Chamomile, they may not realise that Tetley also offers a quality black tea — Tetley Premium Blend tea.

In fact, Tetley is the second-largest tea brand globally, enjoyed in more than 40 countries.

Its black tea remains a cornerstone of the range, offering:

A rich, full-bodied flavour10% bigger teabags for a stronger brewAffordability for everyday enjoymentA heritage brand trusted for generations

“In a time when budgets are under pressure, it’s reassuring to know that something as simple as a cup of Tetley Premium Blend tea can offer both comfort and functional benefits,” concludes Mbali.

Follow @TetleyTeaSA on Facebook and Instagram for healthy tips and recipes.

The Tetley range can be purchased from all major supermarkets, as well as online at https://www.joekels.co.za.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Joekels brands are there?

Joekels packs, blends and distributes several well-known beverage brands in South Africa. These include Tetley, Laager Rooibos, Tea Time, Tea4Kidz and Society Coffee.

2. What are the health benefits of black tea?

Black tea is rich in antioxidants such as flavonoids and theaflavins, which help protect cells from oxidative stress. It may support heart health, promote healthy blood vessels, enhance focus through its natural caffeine and L-theanine content, and assist with digestive comfort.

3. How is Tetley Black Tea different from other black teas?

Tetley Black Tea is known for its consistent quality, rich flavour and 10% bigger teabags, which provide a stronger, fuller brew. As part of a globally trusted heritage brand, it offers affordability and accessibility while maintaining high-quality standards, making it a practical everyday wellness choice.