Exploring the different types of tea: From green to herbal
Tea has been enjoyed across the globe for centuries, with its rich history woven into the cultures of various nations. Whether you prefer a calming cup in the morning, a refreshing brew in the afternoon, or a relaxing drink before bed, tea is a beloved beverage with endless variations. Broadly speaking, tea can be divided into two main categories: traditional teas derived from the Camellia sinensis plant and herbal teas, which come from a variety of plants other than tea leaves. Each type of tea offers a unique flavour profile, a range of health benefits, and a chance to explore a world of flavours.
In this article, we’ll dive into the distinct categories of tea, from green to herbal, and explore what makes each type special:
Camellia sinensis teas
All traditional teas, including green, black, oolong, and white, come from the Camellia sinensis plant, which is native to East Asia. The differences between these teas are largely due to how the leaves are processed after they are harvested, which affects their flavour, colour, and health benefits. Let’s explore each of these types in more detail.
Green tea: Green tea is perhaps the most well-known of the Camellia sinensis family, particularly for its health benefits. The leaves are quickly steamed or pan-fired after harvest to prevent oxidation, preserving the fresh, grassy flavour. This minimal processing allows green tea to retain a high level of antioxidants, particularly catechins, which are thought to support heart health, boost metabolism, and aid in weight management. With its delicate, slightly vegetal taste, green tea pairs wonderfully with light meals such as salads, seafood, or sushi. It’s also a great option for those seeking a less caffeine-heavy drink, as it contains less caffeine than black tea.
Black tea: Black tea is fully oxidised, which gives it a darker colour and a more robust, bold flavour compared to green tea. The oxidation process allows the tea leaves to develop complex, malty, and sometimes slightly astringent notes. Black tea is the most commonly consumed tea worldwide and is often enjoyed with milk and sugar in countries like the UK. Well-known varieties of black tea include Darjeeling, Assam, and Earl Grey. Because of its strong flavour, black tea pairs excellently with heartier foods like breakfast pastries, sandwiches, or a full English breakfast. It also makes a great base for iced tea during the warmer months.
Oolong tea: Oolong tea is partially oxidised, sitting somewhere between green and black tea in terms of flavour and processing. The leaves are allowed to oxidise for a shorter period than black tea, resulting in a tea with a complex flavour profile that can range from floral and light to rich and creamy. Oolong teas like Tie Guan Yin or Da Hong Pao are highly prized for their intricate, layered flavours. This type of tea is often enjoyed in Chinese tea ceremonies and can be paired with dim sum, grilled meats, or lightly flavoured desserts. Oolong is a versatile tea that’s perfect for those who want a balance of the subtlety of green tea and the richness of black tea.
White tea: White tea is the least processed of all Camellia sinensis teas, made from the young buds and leaves of the plant that are simply air-dried and minimally oxidised. As a result, white tea has a delicate, light flavour that can be sweet, floral, or slightly fruity, depending on the variety. It’s often considered the most refined of all the teas and is a favourite for those who enjoy subtle flavours. White tea has high antioxidant levels and is believed to promote healthy skin and improve cardiovascular health. It pairs wonderfully with light desserts, fresh fruit, or a simple scone, making it a delightful treat for afternoon tea.
Herbal teas
While traditional teas come from the Camellia sinensis plant, herbal teas (often called tisanes) are made from a wide variety of herbs, flowers, spices, and fruits. These teas do not contain any tea leaves and are naturally caffeine-free, making them ideal for sipping throughout the day or before bedtime. Here are a few popular herbal teas and their health benefits:
Chamomile tea: Chamomile is well-known for its calming properties, making it the go-to herbal tea for a relaxing evening. The flowers of the chamomile plant are used to create a light, soothing infusion that can help ease anxiety, promote restful sleep, and reduce inflammation. It’s a perfect drink for unwinding after a long day or before heading to bed. Chamomile tea pairs well with light desserts or is lovely on its own as a nighttime ritual.
Peppermint tea: Known for its refreshing, invigorating flavour, peppermint tea is often used to aid digestion. The menthol in peppermint can help soothe an upset stomach, relieve bloating, and ease indigestion. It’s also thought to have mood-boosting properties, helping to reduce stress and improve mental clarity. A great option for after meals, peppermint tea can be enjoyed on its own or paired with chocolate desserts for a delightful combination of flavours.
Rooibos tea: Rooibos, a herb native to South Africa, produces a naturally caffeine-free tea that has a rich, slightly sweet, and earthy flavour. Packed with antioxidants, rooibos tea is said to support heart health, improve skin condition, and aid in digestion. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy a slightly fruity, full-bodied tea without the caffeine. Rooibos pairs beautifully with baked goods, especially spiced or nutty treats, and can also be enjoyed with a splash of milk or honey.
Flavours and uses
Each type of tea has its own unique flavour profile, and the possibilities for pairing them with food are endless. For traditional teas, green and white teas work wonderfully with light meals such as salads, fish, and seafood, while black and oolong teas are better suited to heartier meals, like sandwiches, grilled meats, and rich desserts. Herbal teas, on the other hand, are often enjoyed after meals to aid digestion or before bedtime to promote relaxation.
Tea is also incredibly versatile—whether you enjoy it hot or iced, with milk, lemon, or honey, there’s no wrong way to savour a cup. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavours, blends, and new ways to enjoy your tea to find your perfect match.
“Tea is more than a drink; it’s a moment of peace, a quiet companion in a busy world.”
Tea can be refreshing, comforting, exciting
Tea is a drink with infinite possibilities, from the refreshing notes of green tea to the comforting warmth of chamomile. By exploring the different types of tea, you can discover new flavours, health benefits, and ways to incorporate tea into your daily routine. Whether you’re seeking the antioxidants in green tea or the calming properties of herbal tisanes, there’s a tea out there to suit every occasion and every mood.
Let’s recap what we’ve learned today:
- Camellia Sinensis Teas: Traditional teas, such as green, black, oolong, and white, all come from the Camellia sinensis plant. They differ in processing, which affects their flavour, colour, and health benefits.
- Green Tea: Light, grassy flavour with high levels of antioxidants, supporting heart health, weight management, and metabolism. Pairs well with light meals like salads and seafood.
- Black Tea: Bold and robust flavour due to full oxidation. Rich in flavonoids that support heart health and improve blood flow. Pairs well with hearty foods like sandwiches and pastries.
- Oolong Tea: Partially oxidised tea with a complex flavour ranging from floral to creamy. Balances the characteristics of green and black tea. Great with dim sum, grilled meats, or light desserts.
- Herbal Teas: Made from herbs, flowers, or fruits, herbal teas like chamomile, peppermint, and rooibos are caffeine-free and offer health benefits such as digestion support and relaxation.
- Traditional teas can be paired with specific meals, while herbal teas are perfect for after meals or before bed. Experiment with different blends and flavours to find the perfect match for every occasion.
So go ahead, experiment with different varieties, and let your taste buds lead the way to discovering your new favourite brew.
