Discover the secret ingredient to elevate your black tea experience

Not sugar and not lemon, but a pinch of salt is the addition that should appear in your cup of tea. Why? Is it a solution for those bored with traditional flavours?

Are you a black tea connoisseur looking for a way to improve its taste? Try adding salt. Although this idea might not make the best impression, it actually helps achieve the perfect brew. And this is confirmed by science.

It's hard to shake the feeling that salting tea is a bad idea, but science says otherwise. In her book Steeped: The Chemistry of Tea, chemistry professor Michelle Francl, associated with Bryn Mawr College in the United States, suggested adding a small amount of salt to tea, which could positively affect the drink's taste.

- Sodium blocks bitterness receptors. Tea tastes smoother and is less bitter – explained Prof. Michelle Francl in an interview with "The Times."

Salting tea will be even more effective if we are dealing with a strong, long-brewed drink with an intense flavour. The researcher also added that a small amount of the seasoning, unlike sugar or lemon juice, will not be noticeable. Moreover, the publication reveals that salting tea is not a new concept. It turns out that the Book of Tea by Lu Yu from the 8th century (the first comprehensive work devoted to the history, cultivation, and drinking of tea created by the Chinese writer and poet, known as the "tea sage") contains recommendations for regularly adding salt to a cup of tea. Interestingly, Prof. Michelle Francl's recommendations caused a wave of outrage in the United Kingdom. The US embassy in London also responded to it.

Thanks to its characteristic components, black tea offers numerous health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, including flavonoids, which can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and certain types of cancer. Regular consumption of black tea may also contribute to reducing bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and improving cardiovascular health.

Black tea contains caffeine, which can help increase alertness and improve concentration. Additionally, research has shown that black tea can benefit digestive health and support maintaining a healthy weight. Therefore, it is worth including black tea as a valuable element of a balanced diet.