Emma Downey
Gardening Expert
camellia-sinensis-plant
Emma Downey
Gardening Expert
How many different types of tea are there to choose from? Lots! And each one has a distinct flavor and its own set of health benefits. Let's embark on a journey together to discover the wondrous world of teas, regardless of whether you are an avid tea drinker or have only recently begun the practice.
Tea is the second most popular beverage globally after water, and many people consider it the healthiest drink available.
When we talk about tea, we refer to the traditional beverage made by steeping, brewing, or boiling the leaves of the Camellia Sinensis plant, which is known as the tea plant.
tea plant
But at the same time, we also use the word in its contemporary sense to include herbal infusions, which use a wide variety of other plants ranging from chamomile to verbena.
In this piece, our goal is to provide you with the most comprehensive guide possible on the various types of tea that are currently in demand so that you can learn about and sample new varieties.
But before we get into that, let's begin with a brief history of tea, beginning with its origins and continuing to the present day.
There is a tale that goes back to 2737 BC, the beginning of tea's history.
tea-making-history
Shen Nung, the Chinese emperor, and herbalist preferred to boil his water before drinking it because he believed that it made the water cleaner.
One day, while he was leading his army to a remote region, a dead leaf from a wild tea bush accidentally fell into the water his servant was boiling for him. This led to him discovering the benefits of drinking tea.
The water had a brownish hue, and the emperor drank it and found it revitalizing. After that, he consumed the beverage that he had stumbled upon by accident.
diy-garden-water-features
Throughout the subsequent millennia, tea consumption began to spread throughout China and the rest of Asia before making its way to Africa, Europe, and the New World.
There are currently hundreds of different cultivars of the Camellia sinensis tea plant, first discovered in China.
Infusions of other plants from different parts of the world are now commonly referred to as "tea," reflecting the word's expanding scope.
Camellia sinensis, the tea plant, comes in two primary varieties: Camellia sinensis sinensis and camellia sinensis assamica.
Camellia sinensis Sinensis is a plant that is native to China. It has a small leaf and can withstand colder temperatures better in higher altitudes.
camellia-sinensis-sinensis.
It is typically used to produce teas with a lighter body, such as white tea and green tea.
Camellia sinensis assamica, on the other hand, can only be found in its natural habitat in India, more specifically in the state of Assam in the north-eastern part of the country.
camellia-sinensis-assamica
It is typically utilized in the production of more robust teas such as oolong tea, black tea, and Pu Erh tea. It can bloom in both high and low temperatures.
The same tea plant is used to make all "true" tea varieties, including black, dark, oolong, yellow, green, white, and Pu Erh. This is because there is only one tea plant.
This is the case with hot tea, iced tea, and even the significantly sweeter bubble tea made with tapioca.
On the other hand, Tisane and herbal teas are not technically considered "true teas" because they are made from other plants or herbs rather than tea leaves. In general, however, we do count them among the various kinds of tea because that is how they are sold these days.
how-to-build-an-outdoor-water-feature.
When speaking about teas that are considered "true," the level of oxidation black tea and the processing that each variety of tea goes through determines the differences between them.
This can be better understood by looking at the accompanying diagram. As can be seen, the only processes that white tea leaves go through are withering and drying, and this is in contrast to the additional functions that other types of tea go through.
garden-water-fountains.
Processing the tea is essential to transforming the plant into a beverage that can be consumed. Leaves from the Camellia Sinensis plant, which are used to make tea, are converted into dried leaves through a process that can last a few weeks to several months.
The tea plant must first start by being grown and harvested to begin making tea, and this is the first step in the process. They can have a significant impact on the taste of the finished tea.
You will gain a better understanding of what takes place during each procedure if you first familiarise yourself with the fundamental steps of the tea processing method.
plucking-tea-leaves.
Picking fresh leaves is the first step in making any tea. Only the best tea leaves are plucked by hand from the tea bush's youngest, most tender leaves.
The flavor of the tea frequently reflects the standard of work that went into producing it.
withering-tea-leaves.
After the tea leaves have been plucked, they are put through an enzymatic oxidation process, which causes them to wither. This is done so that the tea can be extracted. This process involves drying out damaged leaves to disperse the leaf's water content throughout the surrounding environment.
Wilting is a natural method, but the leaves can be dried more quickly in the sun or an area with a cool breeze if they are done so at the same time.
On occasion, the leaves will be positioned atop holders, and then hot air will be circulated underneath them.
bruising-tea-leaves.
The process of disruption makes the oxidation reaction much easier to perform. Shaking and tossing the tea leaves causes them to become bruised and torn as part of the process. This process is also referred to as leaf drenching in some circles.
oxidation-of-tea-leaves.
During the manufacturing process of tea, oxidation is an essential step that modifies the taste, appearance, and chemical composition of the tea leaf.
During this process, an enzymatic reaction causes the leaves to turn brown, similar to the color of the peel of a banana or an apple that has been cut.
The primary characteristic that sets different kinds of tea apart is the method used to make them. As an illustration, the tea leaves used to make black tea go through complete oxidation, whereas the leaves used to make green and white tea do not require any oxidation at all.
fixing-tea-leaves.
Heating the tea leaves stops the oxidation process and allows them to be used. This correcting act is sometimes referred to as the kill green, but its purpose is to maintain the green color in the leaf in whatever form it has already taken.
It is possible to accomplish this by baking, panning, or steaming the food, and the production of black tea does not involve this step.
yellowing-
Tea leaves that are still damp and at room temperature after being brewed with kill green can be mildly heated in an airtight container, which will cause the leaves to turn yellow.
As a consequence of these shifts in chlorophyll, the leaves take on a color that can best be described as yellowish-green. This method is only utilized for the production of yellow teas.
rolling-tea-leaves
The rolling process, which is utilized for all tea varieties, is responsible for providing the tea leaves with their recognizable compacted shape or form.
Tea leaves are typically rolled very tightly during the rolling process to ensure that they keep their freshness.
This process can be done by hand or with automated equipment that causes the tea leaves to curl or wrap around themselves. Either way, the result is the same.
drying-tea.
The tea leaves must have the majority of their moisture removed before moving on to the next step, which is drying or firing. Tea that has been dried has a longer shelf life and stays fresher for longer.
The length of time needed for drying is important. If it is done too quickly, the resulting tea may have a dull flavor and a coarse texture. This procedure is necessary for the production of all standard types of tea.
tea-fermenting.
This type of processing, also known as aging, is not always required to occur. Only in situations where the tea might benefit from fermentation and baking is it carried out.
An excellent example of a tea aged and fermented in the same manner as wine is Chinese Pu Erh.
It has a typically bitter and astringent taste, but through fermentation brought on by age or dampness, it can become sweet and mellow.
Following the completion of each stage, the finished tea leaves are allowed to rest and cool before being packaged, either in tea bags or in a variety of other containers.
Have you ever given any thought to the differences between using traditional tea bags and using tea packaged in loose leaf form?
Most tea bags use broken or otherwise damaged tea leaves for their leaf filling. There will always be exceptions, but this is typically how things work.
outdoor-patio-wicker-furniture
Tea leaves can lose much of their flavor and aroma when ground into a fine powder or crushed into smaller pieces. When they are brewed, they give off a more bitter taste than whole leaf tea because they release more tannins.
The overall quality of the tea is affected not only by the size and shape of the tea leaves but also by their quality.
outdoor-water-features.
The popularity of tea bags can be attributed to their portability and convenience. But if you have a suitable tea infuser, you can brew loose leaf tea with ease at home or on the go. After that, you can conduct an accurate tea leaf reading to determine what the future holds in store for you!
While a cup of coffee contains significantly more caffeine than a cup of tea does, some tea varieties have considerably more caffeine than others. The following graph demonstrates that caffeine is present in all genuine types of tea.
garden-water-features-pinterest.
Now that we've covered the manufacturing process for various kinds of tea and some of the fundamental qualities that set them apart, let's look at some of the most well-known varieties available.
different-types-of-tea.
First, let's talk about traditional teas.
It has been established that true teas contain caffeine because the Camellia sinensis plant is used in their production. When most people talk about tea, they are typically referring to one of the following primary categories of tea:
The most common kind of tea made by fully oxidizing the leaves is called black tea, and it is a robust tea prepared from leaves that are either black or dark brown.
It has a higher concentration of caffeine compared to other options. The tea leaves are rolled, bruised, and wilted before being fully oxidized and produced into black tea.
black-tea
This robust tea is loaded with compounds and antioxidants that reduce inflammation throughout the body.
On the other hand, consuming excessive black tea can result in several unpleasant side effects, such as trouble sleeping, diarrhea, heartburn, and vomiting. It has a high amount of caffeine in it.
oolong tea puer, which has a high polyphenol content, effectively reduces stress. Because it is prepared in a semi-fermented state, it has a distinctly fruity flavor profile.
oolong-tea.
As a result of the high antioxidant content, it is beneficial to the health of the skin, bones, and brain.
However, because it contains a high concentration of caffeine, those who are sensitive to the effects of caffeine, including pregnant women and children, should consume it with caution, and ideally, no more than a tiny cup per day.
Dark tea, also known as post-fermented tea, is an anti-diabetic dietary supplement that is well-known for having a robust floral aroma and flavor that is, at the same time, refined. Because it contains so many beneficial nutrients in such high concentrations, this beverage is called the "tea of life."
dark-tea
In the ordinary course of events, it goes through the processes of secondary fermentation to unveil its alluring natural taste.
This particular variety of tea has beneficial properties for probiotics, and it is also abundant in antioxidants and other components that are beneficial to the immune system. In addition to that, it improves concentration.
Green tea, which is often the healthiest beverage globally and is known for its anti-aging and weight loss properties, is another type of proper tea. Both China and Japan are major consumers of the product.
green-tea.
The plucking of the leaves from the tea plant, followed by a brief period of withering and finally cooking, comprises its straightforward preparation.
drink green tea A significant amount of antioxidants can be found in green tea. The consumption of green tea is associated with numerous health benefits, including enhancements to cognitive performance and immunity and healthier skin, and reduced body fat. by the way there is green tea black
The most delicate and subtle of all true teas is white tea. Because it contains less caffeine than other kinds of tea, you can enjoy it more freely later in the day because it won't keep you up.
white-tea.
The youngest leaves are selected and then only slightly oxidized to preserve the finished product's subtle flavor.
White tea has a high antioxidant content, which can help protect your teeth, reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers, and assist you in losing weight if you so choose.
Pu-erh tea is a proper tea that has been fermented, and it is also known as a detox tea. It has properties that are beneficial for reducing body fat, cleansing the body, and making one feel refreshed.
pu-erh-tea.
It has a flavor that is slightly on the bitter side and is produced by a unique type of fermentation that uses microbes.
Your energy levels will increase, your body will be cleansed of harmful free radicals, your bone health will be protected, and your heart health will be improved when you drink Pur Erh Tea.
Yellow tea, which is not nearly as common as green or black tea, is characterized by a fruity aroma, a sweet flavor, and numerous positive effects on one's health.
yellow-tea.
Yellow tea is effective in treating inflammatory bowel disease and weight loss tea.
Drinking yellow Chinese diet tea can rid your body of dangerous toxins, boost your mental alertness, cure diabetes, and reduce the risk of having a brain stroke.
Matcha green tea is a powdered Japanese tea that differs from other types of tea because the shade-grown leaves are powdered to a more acceptable consistency.
matcha-tea
This tea with a flavor reminiscent of grass and vegetables has many beneficial qualities.
This particular variety of tea is among those that contain the highest levels of health-promoting antioxidants and catechins. It can improve mental capacity while also contributing to the preservation of the river.
It also has the potential to assist in weight loss and protect the heart.
The distinctive flavor of lemon tea is achieved by adding lemon juice to either green or black tea before steeping. Lemon tea can also be made with oolong tea, and you can consume this either warm or cold.
lemon-tea
Even though it is an excellent source of hydration and detoxification, consuming an excessive amount of it can erode the enamel on your teeth.
The primary categories of teas have been discussed up until this point. Now that we've covered some of the most common types of tea let's talk about some of the other varieties.
Although these beverages are not technically classified as "tea" because they are not produced using the Camellia sinensis plant, they are still delectable, revitalizing, and good for you.
Herbal tea, also known as tisane, is a type of tea that does not contain any caffeine and is typically made from various plants. These plants include hibiscus, chamomile, lavender, and many others.
herbal-tea
The use of a wide variety of plants in its production sets it apart from other types of teas in that respect. Caffeine is not present in herbal teas.
Originating in South Africa, Rooibos is a herb tea beneficial to the liver and is also known as African Red Tea. The leaves have become oxidized and have a flavor similar to sugar.
rooibos-tea.
It does not contain any caffeine, has a high antioxidant content, and aids in the body's ability to absorb iron.
Tea made from the Chamomile plant's edible flowers is known as chamomile tea and is traditionally drunk before bedtime. This tea has a flavor that is mild and calming to the palate.
chamomile-tea.
The practice is common because it helps relax the body and is suitable for the digestive system. Additionally, it is devoid of caffeine.
Hibiscus is another plant used to make herbal tea. Dry flower petals from the Roselle plant create a tea that tastes similar to that of a sour lemonade.
hibiscus-tea.
It is loaded with vitamin C as well as antioxidants. Those who have problems related to acidity, on the other hand, should be aware that this tea has a significant amount of acid in it.
A miserable day because of your cough? You don't need to worry because a soothing cup of ginger tea will help you get back on your feet. This robustly flavored tea is a favorite during the colder months, and it pairs wonderfully with honey.
ginger-tea
Ginger tea is rich in magnesium, vitamin C, and other minerals beneficial for the body's ability to heal and relax and bolster the immune system.
Tea, or chai, is referred to in its native language of Hindi, and this tea is rich and comforting to the palate.
chai-tea.
The original recipe contains a lot of polyphenols, making it a perfect choice for your health. In addition, the spiced variety is frequently prepared by making a strong brew with milk and a sugar substitute.
However, commercial variations tend to be excessively sweet, so you should exercise caution when consuming them.
One of the most well-known flavored teas, Earl Grey Tea, is a traditional beverage in the United Kingdom. Classic black tea that has been infused with oil extracted from the rind of bergamot oranges is a popular beverage, and for a good reason.
earl-grey-tea.
It strengthens the immune system and makes it easier to lose weight.
Raspberry Leaf Tea is a refreshing beverage that does not contain any caffeine. It has a high concentration of B vitamins, potassium, iron, and magnesium.
raspberry-leaf-tea.
In addition, because it helps by thickening the uterus wall, this beverage is especially beneficial for women, particularly during pregnancy.
Dandelion Tea is an alternative to coffee that some people enjoy, and dandelion root is roasted to produce this substance.
dandelion-tea.
It has a flavor that is not overly floral and is thought to be beneficial for the digestion of food.
Peppermint Tea is a flavorful tea that you can drink, and you can add freshly squeezed lemon juice to it to make it even more delicious. It can calm the stomach.
peppermint-tea.
Peppermint essential oil has been shown to have a positive effect on mood.
One of the most well-known spices, Cinnamon, can be brewed into an excellently fragrant tea.
cinnamon-tea.
People who have rheumatoid arthritis may find that drinking cinnamon tea helps them lose weight, reduces inflammation, and has fewer clinical symptoms.
One of the most well-known herbal beverages in China, jasmine tea is produced by combining jasmine blossoms with either green, white, or black tea.
jasmine-tea
This tea contains a low amount of caffeine and has a relaxing taste with a moderate amount of sweetness.
Consumption daily results in a strengthened immune system and a decreased risk of suffering from heart disease and diabetes.
Nettle Tea is a herbal infusion made by using the withered leaves or roots of the nettle plant to make the tea. Nettle tea has anti-inflammatory properties.
nettle-tea
This particular variety of tea is among the most effective for treating urinary issues, allergic reactions, hives, and gout.
Darjeeling Tea, also known as the "Champagne of Teas," is one of the most well-known products that India ships abroad. It can be presented in white, black, green, or oolong tea puer.
darjeeling-tea
This tea, which has a floral aroma and light color, is rich in antioxidants, which provide several health benefits, including reducing body fat and improving oral and bone health.
Rosehip Tea is a herbal or fruit beverage typically extracted from the dried fruit or flowers of a rose plant. It is known for its high vitamin C content.
rosehip-tea
It is excellent for increasing the amount of vitamin C that you consume and enhancing your immune system's function.
Also known as English Breakfast Tea or Irish Breakfast Tea, It is grown in the region of India known as Assam, which is the largest tea-producing region in the world.
assam-tea
This beverage, which is dark reddish brown and contains caffeine, has a taste that is malty and sharply sour, and it is known to increase energy and promote mental vigilance.
Ceylon tea, also known as Sri Lankan tea, is typically consumed in the form of iced tea or milk tea. It is a black tea that has been processed by hand, and despite its bright color, it has a bold flavor.
ceylon-tea
As a result of its ability to regulate insulin and blood sugar levels, it can be considered an anti-diabetes tea.
English Breakfast, The most common type of tea consumed in England is "English Breakfast Tea." Its traditional black tea blend consists of Assam, Ceylon, and Kenyan teas, and it produces a beverage with a distinctively pungent flavor and an aroma reminiscent of raisins.
english-breakfast-tea.
Even though it contains a high concentration of caffeine, it is rich in flavonoids, which improve arterial and dental health and may also protect against certain cancers.
Chinese tea is a beverage that is low in caffeine and can be found in a wide variety of flavors, all of which are determined by the type of tea leaves that are used.
chinese-tea
This tea is beneficial to the immune system because it is high in antioxidant content. Additionally, it may control blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Ginseng Tea is a herbal tea with anti-obesity properties traditionally consumed in Korea. The tea gets its name from the root of the ginseng plant.
ginseng-tea.
American, Asian, and Siberian ginseng are the three distinct types available. Ginsenosides are found in this, and they are the active ingredient responsible for alleviating menstrual, mental, and even sexual issues.
For centuries, people have been drinking a beverage made from the leaves, flowers, and roots of the Echinacea plant, known for its medicinal properties.
echinacea-tea.
Because it contains antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and anti-viral compounds, this tea is considered a beverage that is beneficial to the immune system.
Yerba Mate is yet another traditional herbal beverage that has been around for centuries. It has a flavor similar to coffee but without bitterness. This beverage is trendy in South America, and its citizens consume it daily. It has recently been gaining more popularity in Europe and the United States, and you should give it a shot because of this. A Yerba Mate starter kit, which can be found on this page, is an excellent way to get started with this beverage.
yerba-mate-tea.
This tea has several beneficial effects, some of the most notable of which include improved concentration and mental focus and stronger bones.
Chrysanthemum tea is an infusion with a robust flavor that is typically consumed throughout East Asia. It is made from the flowers of the chrysanthemum plant.
chrysanthemum-tea.
It is frequently utilized to treat hyperthyroidism, regulate blood pressure, and assist in treating various respiratory conditions.
Be aware, however, that those who are allergic to ragweed and daisies may experience additional symptoms as a result of using this product.
Holy Basil, also known as Tulsi, is a plant used to make tea and is known for its natural medicinal properties.
tulsi-tea.
It is a beverage that does not contain any caffeine but includes a component called "eugenol," an effective stress reliever, stimulant, anti-inflammatory agent, and digestive agent.
Spearmint Tea is an anti-osteoarthritis beverage with a flavor that is not quite as pepperminty as peppermint.
spearmint-tea.
This type of mint tea, much like other mint tea made with tea, has beneficial therapeutic properties, especially for the stomach.
Sencha is a well-known type of green tea in which the entire leaf, after drying, is used to make the beverage. The polyphenol content of this tea is exceptionally high.
sencha-tea.
In addition to its potential for assisting with weight loss, the prevention of cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, and the slowing of the aging process, this substance is antibacterialValerian Tea
Valerian Tea is yet another delicious herbal tea, and it is prepared by drying the stems and roots of the valerian plant and then brewing the resulting mixture.
valerian-tea.
Reduced stress levels, improved sleep quality, and relief from menstrual symptoms are some of the benefits.
Rose Tea, also known as rosebud tea, is a sugary and moderately sour tea with gorgeous color. It gets its name from the rosebuds that are used to make the tea.
rose-tea.
This tea contains a high amount of vitamin C and anthocyanin, a type of flavonoid that has been shown to lower blood pressure and have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
It's never a bad idea to keep a supply of tea stashed away in your kitchen. The vast majority of teas are safe to consume daily without causing any adverse effects.
That means a lot of cups filled with happiness and relaxation and the myriad of health benefits that come along with drinking tea.
However, you shouldn't limit yourself to the typical tea brands. We have selected for you to dry a few unique kinds of tea that we thought you might enjoy, and you can place an order for each of them online.
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For example, the kind of drinker who only imbibes sometimes and prefers hot beverages when they are sick; for example? Or a tea addict? Or is there something that lies in between?
Because there are so many different kinds of tea available, it is pretty unlikely that you will not be able to discover one that suits your tastes. You may find an entire universe of teas that you can explore online, from Assam tea to teas that help you lose weight.
Without a doubt, tea drinkers are living in fascinating times right now.
woman-drinking-tea-at-home
Drinking tea can make you a healthier person and connect you with nature on a deeper level.
Because you’re not drinking just tea but sunshine and air and the wisdom of the plants and soil.
The main types of tea are true teas made from the Camelia sinensis plant, including green tea, white tea, black tea, yellow tea, white tea, Pur Erh tea, and Matcha tea as well as caffeine-free herbal teas.
True teas are all made from the Camelia sinensis plant but each type of tea undergoes a different process that may or may not involve withering, oxidation, fixation, baking, yellowing, or rolling.
The best type of tea is the one you like the most! Some people call green tea the world’s healthiest drink, but almost every type of tea has health benefits.