Tea is a common beverage made from steeping processed Camellia sinensis leaves with hot water. Numerous studies show that it might have some health benefits. However, all teas are different, and some might offer more benefits than the others.
Use this guide to learn about the hidden benefits in each tea type and the brewing methods for a perfect cuppa.
Choosing a Good Tea
Tea made in the traditional way (called the orthodox method) retains the sophistication that natural soil, and climatic factors induce. Tea packed at source, retaining its freshness and in particular tea that maintains the purity of its origin – single origin, single region or single estate tea – is best.
Storing Tea
Tea is hygroscopic, absorbing moisture and similarly odours or fragrance. Store your tea in an airtight container, and keep it away from moisture, heat, light and odours. Stored in a cool and dry place never warmer than 86F (30C). For medium term storage, keep your stocks of tea in an airtight foil pouch or ceramic container in the refrigerator.
Brewing
Brewing is the extraction of the goodness nature has induced in the tea leaves. Using the right amount of tea for the volume of tea you wish to brew is critical, as is the method of brewing. Check out details of brewing for each tea type below.
Stirring
Once the tea and freshly boiled water are combined, the leaves or tea bag tend to settle at the bottom of the teapot, reducing the contact between tea leaves and water. Stir to agitate the tea and allow proper extraction.
TYPES OF TEA
BLACK TEA
Benefits: Energy Booster
This tea is made from the same plant that’s used to make green tea. However, the leaves are dried and fermented, giving black tea a darker color and richer flavor. This tea accounts for roughly three quarters of the worlds consumption, which isn’t that surprising considering it has the highest levels of caffeine at around 40mg per cup, making it perfect for a pre workout booster. It also contains flavonoids that combat inflammation and support healthy immune function.
Brewing guide:
- Loose leaf/ Tea Bag: 1 tsp = 1 Tea bag
- Water: 7.5 fl oz. (220ml)
- Brewing: 200-210F (95-100C)
- Brewing Time: 3-5 Minutes
3 Minutes Normal brew
5 Minutes for strong brew
GINGER
Benefits: Enhanced Recovery
Thanks to it’s powerful anti-inflammatory properties, this herbal tea is a perfect post-workout brew as it can help to sooth aching muscles. It can also help fight morning sickness, nausea and relive joint pain. You can also make it from a slice of fresh ginger or half teaspoon powdered ginger) just by adding
it into a cup with boiling water.
Brewing guide:
- Loose leaf/ Tea Bag: 1 tsp = 1 Tea bag
- Water: 7.5 fl oz. (220ml)
- Brewing: 200-210F (95-100C)
- Brewing Time: 3-5 Minutes
GREEN TEA
Benefits: Fat Burner
This tea originates from China and Japan. It can help speed up metabolism to burn more calories, making it a popular supplement. It is exceptionally high in flavonoids that can help boost your heart health by lowering bad cholesterol and reducing blood clotting. Studies also show this type of tea can help lower blood pressure, triglycerides and total cholesterol. It’s also packed with potent antioxidants that can help prevent certain forms of cancer. For maximum impact, drink the matcha variety, made with powdered green leaves, that contain even more antioxidants that regular green tea.
Brewing guide:
- Loose leaf/ Tea Bag: 1 tsp = 1 Tea bag
- Water: 7.5 fl oz. (220ml)
- Brewing: 150-160F (65-70C)
- Brewing Time: 2-4 Minutes
CHAMOMILE
Benefits: Relaxation and Sleep
Made from the flower of the same name, this sweet beverage has been found to reduce anxiety and stress levels making it a perfect choice for improved sleep and relaxation. Bonus: it can also help to alleviate chesty coughs.
Brewing guide:
- Loose leaf/ Tea Bag: 1 tsp = 1 Tea bag
- Water: 7.5 fl oz. (220ml)
- Brewing: 200F (90C)
- Brewing Time: 3-5 Minutes
PEPPERMINT
Benefits: Digestive Aid
This minty brew contains menthol, which can improve mobility in your digestive tract to help relieve the symptoms of upset stomach, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome and motion sickness. This tea variety can also offer pain relief from tension headaches and migraines. It’s also an easy herb to cultivate in your garden, for a homegrown cup. Just dry the leaves and add boiling water.
Brewing guide:
- Loose leaf/ Tea Bag: 1 tsp = 1 Tea bag
- Water: 7.5 fl oz. (220ml)
- Brewing: 200-210F (95-100C)
- Brewing Time: 3-5 Minutes
OOLONG TEA
Benefits: Mental Alertness
Oolong tea is a traditional Chinese tea variety that’s made from the same plant used to make green and black teas, the difference is in how it is processed. Oolong tea contains l-theanine, an amino acid that reduces anxiety and increases alertness and attention. It is also high in polyphenols, which are linked to lowering inflammation, preventing the growth of cancers and decreasing type 2 diabetes risk.
Brewing guide:
- Loose leaf/ Tea Bag: 1 tsp = 1 Tea bag
- Water: 7.5 fl oz. (220ml)
- Brewing: 175-190F (80-90c)
- Brewing Time: 2-3 Minutes
WHITE TEA
Benefits: Defying Age
A delicate and smooth tea that is native to China and India. The leaves are picked when very young. This variety of tea contains the least amount of caffeine at just 15mg per cup. It has high levels of polyphenols, which strengthen the elastin in your skin to help combat wrinkles. It’s also high in antioxidants and contains a high source of fluoride, catechises and tannins, which can strengthen teeth.
Brewing guide:
- Loose leaf/ Tea Bag: 1 tsp = 1 Tea bag
- Water: 7.5 fl oz. (220ml)
- Brewing: 160-175F (70-80C)
- Brewing Time: 2-3 Minutes
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