Types of Tea

There are four main varieties of tea:

 

Black tea, known as "red tea" (hong cha) in China, is a completely fermented tea. Black teas get their characteristic flavor and colour from a natural oxidation process, which follows initial drying and rolling of the leaves after they have been picked. Chinese black tea is mainly for exporting due to the popularity of Western tea drinkers, 

It is the most common variety and accounts for about 75 percent of global tea consumption.  Black tea has a slightly bitter flavor and contains the most caffeine—about 40 milligrams per cup. (A cup of coffee has 50 to 100.)

 

 

Oolong tea is a semi-fermented tea, combining the best qualities of green tea and black tea. Oolong tea is not only as clear and fragrant as green tea, but also as refreshing and strong as black tea. It natural aroma would linger in your mouth and make your throat much comfortable. Oolong tea is helpful in anti aging, reducing high blood pressure, preventing heart disease. It can also help digesting, refresh yourself and sober up. It is a world famous natural health drink. 

 

Green Teas   

 

 Green tea is the variety which keeps the original color of the tea leaves without fermentation during processing. The leaves are heated just right after picking in order to stop the process of oxidation. It is hand-fired in pans to completely halt this process while preserving the fresh, open meadow aroma and flavor within the dried leaf. By minimally processing the leaves, the tea's nutrients are unaltered and the high levels of antioxidants are preserved. The final drying techniques finish the leaf to create its ultimate appearance when dry. Green teas are sweet and contain many of the vitamins and antioxidant properties of the fresh green tea leaf, making them highly regarded as a healthy, fragrant and delicious drink.

 

 

White Teas    

 

White tea is the world's rarest tea as it can only be picked for a few weeks in any one year. Authentic white tea is only grown in the Fujian province in China where the exact method of processing is kept secret.  White Tea is similar to green tea but more delicate in flavor as the leaf is picked whilst it is still young. It is therefore milder in flavour, less caffeine—about 15 milligrams per cup and contains more anti-oxidants than green tea, making it one of the healthiest teas available. Drinking white tea is a tasteful way to benefit from the micronutrients that enhance immune system functions, and improve skin condition. White tea has seen a recent increase in popularity and has well-documented antioxidant and detoxifying benefits.

 

Flavored Tea  

 

 For these teas, aromatic extras, such as cinnamon, orange peel, and lavender, are paired with black, green, or white tea leaves. Flavored teas have the same levels of antioxidants and the same health benefits as unflavored ones. Those flavored with superfruits, such as blueberries, may contain even more antioxidants

 

 

Herbal Tea   

 

Technically, herbal teas are not teas at all—they’re usually some combination of dried fruits, flowers, and herbs. Herbal varieties contain no caffeine. Avoid herbal weight-loss teas, which may contain dangerous laxatives.  The Journal of Nutrition found that drinking three cups of hibiscus tea daily could help lower blood pressure in people with hypertension and evidence suggests that chamomile tea may promote sleep.