tea

 

 

Tea Information and Types of Tea

Tea is the second most consumed beverage behind water. There must be something special about this brewed beverage. If we are to discuss tea and the different types of teas, we must first cover what it actually is.

What is Tea?

Tea is basically the dried and processed leaves of only one species of plant called camellia sinensis. Interestingly enough, herbal teas or herbal infusions are not really teas, but simply dried leaves and/or flowers from various other plants and herbs.

Even though all teas come from only one species, there are three major varietals:

The China – Small leaves and generally thrives at higher altitudes.

The India (or Assam) – Larger leaves and generally thrives at lower altitudes.

The Hybrid – Kind of in-between the Chinese and Indian.

Earlier, I talked about the processing of the camellia’s leaves. There are four main methods of processing and each produces a different type of tea. These four main types are:

• White Tea
• Green Tea
• Black Tea
• Oolong Tea

A Tea for Everyone:

Sometimes, tea is sold as a blend of some combination of the four main types listed above. Teas can also be flavored with oils or scented with flower petals during the processing stage. They can also be combined with fruits and spices.

One of my favorites is chai tea which is black tea brewed with various spices. Finally, let's not forget refreshing iced tea!

---

Fun Tip:

One of the neatest things I've come across in a long time is a website that allows you to customize your own teas! - http://www.adagio.com/ -  They will literally blend, add fruits, spices, and other flavors to create a truly personalized experience.

You can even name your creation and upload a picture for the container. It's easy to do and to sweeten the deal, they'll give you discount points if someone else purchases your creation! Surprise someone you love with this unique gift.

Follow either of the links below to get your preferred discount and then go to the signature blends page to create your own. Have Fun!

http://www.2basnob.com/tea-types.html