Tea Benefits

There are so many nutritional benefits to tea I cannot name them all.  Let's discuss the different types of tea, the benefits of tea, and where to get your best teas.  I have friends that know much more than I do about tea - so if I am wrong with any of the information I provide - I KNOW they will set us all straight!  :)  Here are the most common types of tea.

Black Tea - Goes through the most processing.  Tea leaves are picked and set out to wilt in the sun.  Then, they are twisted and crushed to ferment and fully oxidize in the sun.  This process changes the color of the leaves black when complete.  There are different types of black tea - typically named for the region in which the tea is grown (i.e. darjeeling, assam, and ceylon).  Black tea has a stronger, sometimes more bitter flavor and higher caffeine levels than other types of tea.

Oolong Tea - Is a hybrid of Black and Green tea.  It is also wilted but only partially oxidized.  There is a wide range of Oolong teas some almost black, some almost green. 



Mighty Athena - Green Tea



Green Tea - There are two different types of green tea.  Primarily the Chinese variety is roasted to dry the leaves.  And the Japanese style to steam dry the leaves.  Green tea leaves do not go through the fermentation stage like black and oolong teas.  Green tea has a grassier / flowerier flavor and fragrance and much lower caffeine levels.

White Tea - Is the least processed of all tea.  The top leaves and bud are picked very early in the season while the white hairs are still on the plant and the bud has not opened yet.  They are not fermented, nor are they roasted / steam dried but let dry naturally in the sun.  The flavor is much more delicate and sweeter than any other type of tea and is often mixed with fruit.  It has the lowest amount of caffeine.

Herbal Tea - Is a combination of herbs, flowers, and fruits - anything except tea leaves.  Herbal teas are typically used to heal maladies. 

Up until recently, I have always gone to the store and chosen a variety of different prepackaged teas - usually green, white or herbal.  My cousin introduced me to Phuong Le a master Tea Craftsman.  And OH MY GOSH!  I had no idea what I had been missing out on... all these years wasted! :)  To enjoy her fabulous teas, you will need a diffuser - she has them on her site too.  AH-MAZING!  I can't say enough.  Her teas are all organic and hand crafted. 

So, what are the benefits of tea?  Tea has a high concentration of antioxidants.  White tea having the highest concentration.  High in Vitamin C which boosts immune system and helps promote healthy skin.  Tea contains polyphenol which fights certain cancers.  It is known to soothe the digestive tract.  Tea lowers cholesterol, boosts metabolism, and regulates blood sugar levels.  It is also a detoxifier and a stress reliever.

Visit Phuong's site - my favorite so far is definitely Mighty Athena - but I am trying new ones every day!  She has new combinations that were just released... enjoy!!  http://www.iloveono.com/

Thank you Tracie for introducing me to Phuong.  And to Phuong, thank you for the bright and shining star you are - you are a good role model for us all.  Blessings...E