Tea Types and Benefits

Are you a tea drinker? After water, tea is the most consumed beverage in the world. Many cultures acknowledge tea's soothing and restorative effects on people. Check out the information below to see if tea is worth its hype!

Health benefits of tea

You may have heard of the numerous potential health benefits of tea. The benefit that is most strongly supported by research is tea's antioxidant properties which have an effect on heart health.

Types of Tea

Tea types are typically defined by their level of leaf oxidation. Oxidation is naturally occurring and takes place when leaves are exposed to air. The oxidation impacts flavor and allows for the unique characteristics of tea. Typically, the longer the tea is oxidized, the darker the infusion and the more robust flavor.

Green tea

Green tea is likely the most well known and researched variety of tea. Green tea leaves do not go through the same process of withering and drying as oolong or black tea, which are derived from the same plant.

Caffeine Content: ~35mg per cup

Oolong tea

Oolong tea varies in flavor depending on the region where it's grown and processed. Oolong is partially oxidized, giving it a darker color. Leaves may be rolled or balled into beads.

Caffeine Content: 16-55mg per cup

Black tea

Black tea is oxidized longer than most other teas. It is thought to have the strongest flavor as well.

Caffeine Content: 50mg per cup

White tea

This simple tea requires only two steps to produce, harvesting and drying. White tea leaves are not oxidized at all, nor are they rolled.

Caffeine Content: 10mg per cup

Herbal teas

These teas are naturally caffeine-free, except for yerba mate. Herbal teas include pure rooibos, peppermint, and chamomile. Herbal teas are an infusion of warm water over leaves, seeds, roots or bark.

Caffeine Content: 0mg per cup

GenoPalate Challenge

Try one of these teas over the weekend!