Types Of Tea - Your Online Source for Information on Tea
Types of Tea – They Heal and Sooth and Comfort
There are so many different types of tea on the market today, it can be very difficult to determine which ones are truly good for you and which ones are just good for a treat. There are literally dozens of tea names and brands, and two of the most common types of tea are black tea and green tea, both of which can be found in a variety of flavors.
Black tea, green tea, oolong tea, Chai tea, ginseng tea – they all come from the same plant, the Camellia sinensis. The leaves from this single plant are made into all different types of tea depending on how it is grown, harvested and processed.
Black teas are grown all over the world. Some of the most well-known black teas are Darjeeling and Keemun. These types of tea are dried, oxidized and fermented to give them a unique, rich flavor.
Green tea undergoes far less processing than black tea, and that is why is has so many more healthful benefits. Green teas are not fermented, so the leaves retain more of the health-promoting antioxidants that are so good at fighting disease. In general, green tea has a much lighter flavor than other teas, but that can also depend upon the quality of tea and brand you choose.
Oolong tea falls just between the black and green tea varieties. It is slightly fermented, so it is probably healthier than black tea and a little heartier than green tea. All of these types of tea vary in taste, so it is best – and most fun – to experiment with several different kinds until you find your favorite. It’s also a good idea to keep a bunch on hand to enjoy something delicious depending on your mood.
Some kinds of tea, like white tea, are quite rare because of the way they are harvested or where they come from. In the case of white tea, it comes from the same plant but is picked before the leaves are fully developed. It is more difficult to harvest, so it is not very common and is also more expensive.
Other types of tea are not even really tea as we know it. Some healthful brews, like Essaic tea, are mixtures of different herbs and others are mixtures of a variety of plant products. A tea made from raspberry leaves is reported to be beneficial in toning the uterus and helping with pregnancy and delivery. Another kind of tea called kombucha tea is made by fermenting mushrooms.
All kinds of teas have different benefits and many are claimed to be miracle cures for cancer and other serious illnesses. The important thing when choosing a tea is that it is wonderfully delicious, soothing to both mind and body and gives you a moment to relax and enjoy some pleasant reflection on your day.