By now it should be no secret to you that a multitude of different teas can offer up all kinds of health benefits, when consumed regularly.

Commonly, herbal teas are linked with the more abstract health issues that plague us, such as stress, depression, insomnia and some hormonal imbalances – which can be hard to detect.

However, we rarely hear about the more physiological health benefits that can come from tea, like bone health.

With that in mind, we’re taking a specific look at a selection of specific teas which can greatly help with the health of our bones (and, in some cases, dental health).

Is tea good for bones?

It’s likely that you think milk is the beverage of choice for strengthening bones and dental health – and you’d be right.

That source of calcium is vital for a healthy body, and should be included in a balanced diet.

However, recent research has highlighted that tea-drinkers (whether they take it black or with milk, regardless) have, on average, stronger bone structure than those who avoid the brew.

These results were found to be fairly consistent even when accounting for age differences, lifestyle variations and average weight of tea-drinkers versus non-drinkers.

So if you’re looking for a little boost in the bone department, what teas are best to sip on?

Which type of tea for bone health?

Here are the best bone-strengthening teas to pour in your cup!

White tea

White tea tends to have lower levels of fluoride than many other tea strains. This is predominantly due to the fact that white tea is produced from the young buds of the Camellia Sinensis plant (the source of all authentic teas), rather than the mature leaves or flowers which form the majority of other flavors.

Additionally, white tea is packed full of antioxidants which boast innumerable health benefits for all areas of the body – one of which is protecting bones from oxidative damage over time.

Chamomile tea

Chamomile tea is yet another tea infusion, of the herbal variety, which contains a huge number of antioxidants and flavonoids. Chamomile is often turned to as a natural treatment for depression, stress and other symptoms which can be caused by too much cortisol.

Amongst the many physical and mental drawbacks of too much cortisol, is a weakness in bone structure and health – meaning Chamomile’s active anti-cortisol benefits are a huge help in the strength of your bones.

It’s also worth noting that increased stress and depression can lead to troubled sleep patterns or insomnia – a solid, healthy sleep cycle is a vital part of bone health as the body uses this ‘down time’ to repair itself.

Dandelion tea

Dandelion tea is another unusual and strangely unpopular infusion. The misconception that dandelions are merely pesky, troublesome weeds is miles from the truth however, especially when considering the sheer number of vitamins and supplements contained within its leaves (Vitamin C, Vitamin D, magnesium, potassium, zinc and more).

But, the most relevant aspect of this hardy plant is that it too can help with bone strength and condition, due to its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

Additionally, many herbalists and natural treatment specialists believe that the roots and leaves of the dandelion can help with detoxifying the liver – a major player in bone health.

Green tea

Of course, Green tea had to be in this list somewhere – it seems like there’s nothing this superhero tea can’t handle, including bone health.

Green tea has a long history of benefits for dental health and bone structure. Again, the sheer weight of antioxidants and catechins within the tea are thought to be doing the hard work of preventing oxidative damage to the bones.

Interestingly, there is quite a solid foundation of research to back this up.

A study carried out by Dr Leslie Shen, focused on 171 postmenopausal women with poor bone health. The trials took place over six months and the subjects were divided into groups… the results showed that the group which had regular green tea consumption (four or more cups per day) in conjunction with tai-chi exercises had increased bone and muscle strength.

Black tea

A very recent study carried out by researchers in Japan has found that black tea might have the ability to ward off early signs of osteoporosis in the elderly.

Again, the defence seems to come down to antioxidants, but a very specific one in this case: theaflavin-3 (TF-3) which is thought to curb the effects of an enzyme known as DNA methyltransferase, which can cause all kinds of damage to bone tissue.

Now, the same report also warns that a great deal of black tea would need to be consumed for hugely noticeable benefits (around 20 cups per day!); but every little helps. Especially if it means you get to drink more tea.

Nettle tea

Something a little different, here: nettles have been known, for generations, to treat the symptoms and complaints of several bone weaknesses, such as arthritis.

The nippy little plant is a fantastic source of calcium and magnesium, as well as vitamins C and D (all of which can greatly aide your bones and calcium intake).

Nowadays, nearly every plant and herb known to man is available in tincture or tea form – so give nettle tea a shot! Or even mix it with some other herbal remedies for an extra kick.

Alfalfa tea

Alfalfa leaves are yet another nutrient rich, calcium-heavy herb/plant which can make for some delicious teas. Added bonuses are that the amino acids present in the tea can have anti-inflammatory effects all over the body (which can take some of the immediate stress off of the bones), and various nutrients within the leaf can contribute to muscle and tendon strength.

However, it’s advised that pregnant women and patients with autoimmune diseases or any kidney related illnesses (or even diabetes) should be wary of consuming too much of the tea, as it can lead to some unwanted symptoms. Remember: everything in moderation, even tea.