There are several types of tea, but they all come from plants that are rich in antioxidants called flavonoids. The Camellia sinensis plant is native to India and China, but it is grown in other parts of the world as well. The difference is in the processing, geography and growing conditions. In general, less processing equals more antioxidants in your cup of tea. Tea aficionados can agree that there are five main categories of tea. They include black, green, white, oolong, and pu-erh. Other categories that are sometimes included are blends, flavored teas and herbal infusions or tisanes. These may be derived from a combination of the five groups previously stated, the addition of flavorings like fruits, flowers, herbs and spices, or from any other leaf based drink, respectively. Look to this information to learn more about the five "true" types of tea.
Black Teas
Black tea is consumed the most throughout the world. It is made by fermenting the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant for several hours. Some call this method oxidation since the leaves are allowed to wither and the water evaporates allowing the leaves to absorb more oxygen from the air. This process gives it a dark rich brown or black color and more caffeine than any other variety. Black varieties may offer several health benefits including reduced risks of stroke and smokers may have added lung protection.
Green Teas
Green tea accounts for about ten percent of worldwide tea consumption. It is made using slightly withered leaves and a steaming process. Green teas contain a powerful antioxidant called Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) that is believed to protect against many types of cancers, Alzheimer's disease, stroke, osteoporosis and periodontal diseases.
Other Teas
White tea is so named for its almost clear appearance when brewed. It has a sweet delicate flavor that comes from hand processing only. It comes from the white buds of the tea plant, but some manufacturers may include parts of the leaf as well for a lower quality tea. This variety is considered by some to be the most powerful anticancer tea.
Oolong tea undergoes partial fermentation or oxidation. The pale yellow brew has a floral or fruity flavor that many connoisseurs prefer without sweeteners, creams or other additions. Wuji, is one type of oolong tea that may have weight loss properties although there is no scientific proof to support this claim.
Pu-reh is a type of Chinese black tea that is fermented and its leaves pressed into cakes. It has a strong earthy flavor that is consumed for medicinal reasons such as reducing cholesterol, weight loss and digestive health.
It is clear that tea is a popular beverage all over the world. It is preferred over coffee in the health community because of the antioxidant properties, lower amounts of caffeine and other health benefits. More scientific research is necessary, however, to really understand how much tea is needed to promote health. Still, it wouldn't hurt to add more of the healthy beverage to your diet and maybe even replace that morning coffee with a fresh brewed cup of tea.