About Tea
The art of tea is an ancient ritual and practice. The cause of wars, espionage, riches and disease, all true tea comes from the Camellia Sinensis plant. The differences are the result of geography, growing conditions and methods of processing. Tea was accidentally discovered around 2737 B.C. by Chinese Emperor Shen-Nun who was sitting beneath a tree waiting for his water to boil when tea leaves fell into his pot.
Worldwide, tea is second most popular beverage, behind only water. American’s consumption of tea is growing – dramatically with specialty teas experiencing the biggest growth in recent years.
Loose tea is always preferable. Most commercial tea bags use tea ‘dust’ instead of the full leaf which will give you a much higher quality and flavor of tea.
Most Common Types of Tea
All tea has caffeine. Yet, the debate has continued for years about how much caffeine the various types of teas have. Some believe it is related to the steep time – the longer it steeps, the more caffeine. Thus, the prevailing thought is that black tea has the most caffeine. However, recent reports indicate that the short steep time of white tea prevents it from having more caffeine since it often includes the new leaf tips which may contain more caffeine. See below for comments about “herbal” tea.
| · White | Highest in anti-oxidants & undergoes minimal processing. The resulting brew has a light color and flavor. Generally, white tea should be steeped in water between 170 and 180 degrees for 1-2 minutes. |
| · Green | Rich in anti-oxidants and worldwide it is the most popular type of tea, mainly because of its popularity in Asia. Green tea has dramatically less caffeine than coffee. Generally, green tea should be steeped in water about 180 degrees for 1-2 minutes. |
| · Oolong | Partial fermentation and has less caffeine than coffee. Considered the most complex flavors of teas, Oolong teas can offer multiple infusions as they release different flavors with each steeping. Water temperature varies from 185 for green Oolongs (3-4 minutes) to 210 for darker varieties (up to 6 minutes). |
| · Pu-erh | Typically, a black tea that undergoes a unique fermentation process called post-fermentation, in which the tea leaves undergo a microbial fermentation process after they are dried and rolled. It can be purchased either as loose leaf or compressed bricks, some of which carved with interesting designs. |
| · Black | Full oxidation and the most popular type in the US. It is what most of us grew up drinking in tea bags, especially the sweet tea of the South. Steep in near boiling (200-210 degree) water for 2-4 minutes. |
| · Tisane/Herbals | Herbal ‘tea’ isn’t really tea as it is not made from Camellia Sinensis; therefore, the proper name is ‘tisane’. There are three main types of herbal teas: Rooibos (roy-bus), mate’ and herbal infusions that are typically an infusion of herbs, flowers and fruits. Mate’ does contain caffeine and is often a favorite among serious coffee lovers because it gives similar energy as coffee without the jitters. Rooibus, also called Red Tea comes from South Africa, is caffeine free and full of vitamins and minerals. |
Preparing Your Tea
- If you desire stronger tea, steep more tea leaves, instead of brewing for a longer time, which can make a bitter cup. White and green teas usually produce a much lighter colored brew.
- Store your tea in an air-tight container away from heat and light. Do not store in the refrigerator or freezer.
- Most tea leaves can be steeped a 2nd time for a delicious yet different resulting brew.
- Pack the tea leaves loosely in your infuser or filter bag. You want the hot water to flow through the leaves.
- Utensils that you’ll need: teaspoon, tablespoon, infuser (tea ball) or paper TEA filters
- For the finest experience, use a proper cup; good, fresh water, which you boil not microwave.
- White and green teas prefer slightly cooler hot water (175-185°) compared with oolong and black who steep better at 185-206°.
Steep Time and Measures
Type of Tea |
Amount of Tea per 8 oz. Cup | Time to Steep |
| White | 1 TBSP | 1-3 minutes |
| Green | 1 tsp | 3 minutes |
| Oolong | 1 TBSP | 3-5 minutes |
| Black | 1 tsp | 3-5 minutes |
| Tisane/Herbals | 1 TBSP | 5-7 minutes |
Benefits of Tea
Tea is a natural and healthy drink. Each type of type exhibits slightly different health benefits. But, tea is rich in anti-oxidants, vital minerals and many vitamins. Some types are known to aid weight loss, others to support heart health. The internet has a wealth of knowledge about the health benefits of tea.
Enjoying Your Tea
The Moment: use a special cup, put on some pleasing music, turn off the outside world then sit and
enjoy this very moment…create a mini-oasis moment right where you are.
Invite your friends, colleagues or clients: the ritual of afternoon or high tea is centuries old. Use this opportunity to network for business, talk about what’s important to you or simply to enjoy the presence of those you know and love. Practice the art of civility – the natural tone any time you drink tea.
Tea is served, which is one of the reasons why it’s such a special ritual. When we serve others, we are truly connecting with our innate nature. Allow yourself to focus on this way of serving and feel the goodness it brings.