🍵 Tea Summary:
Tea is a popular aromatic beverage made by steeping cured or fresh leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant in hot water. It originated in China over 4,000 years ago and has since become one of the most widely consumed drinks globally.
Types of Tea (from the same plant):
Green tea: minimally oxidized, grassy and fresh.
Black tea: fully oxidized, robust and bold.
Oolong tea: partially oxidized, between green and black.
White tea: least processed, delicate and light.
Pu-erh tea: fermented and aged, earthy and smooth.
Herbal teas (technically tisanes) like chamomile, peppermint, and rooibos aren’t from the Camellia sinensis plant but are popular infusions too.
Health Benefits:
Rich in antioxidants (catechins, theaflavins)
May support heart health, digestion, and relaxation
Contains caffeine (varies by type)
How to Brew:
Water temp and steep time vary by tea type
Green: ~175°F (80°C) for 2–3 min
Black: ~200°F (93°C) for 3–5 min
Herbal: boiling for 5–7 min
