main types of tea

33 Main Types of Tea: A Deep Dive into Their Distinct Features

What are the main types of tea? Tea comes in many types from cultures around the world. In this post, we explore 33 popular and interesting teas.

We look at main tea types like green, black, oolong, white, and pu-erh. You’ll learn where different teas come from.

You’ll learn how to make them. You’ll also learn about their tastes and health benefits. Whether you love tea or are just starting out, this guide will teach you. It covers tea flavors, profiles, and brewing.

With great photos and descriptions, it makes learning about tea fun. So grab a cup and let’s start our tea adventure!

33 Different Main Types of Tea and Their Benefits

1. Black Tea

Black tea is obtained from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. The leaves are usually crushed or rolled and left to oxidize before being dried.

The oxidation process makes the black tea have a strong dark flavor profile. Sometimes the process usually reduces the level of flavonoid content.

The good news is that black tea is rich in health properties.

Generally, black tea is sold in some sort of blend. The season and location where the plant is grown determines the flavors.

Black tea supports heart health and protects the body against oxidative stress. It is one of the reasons behind its popularity in the United States of America.

If you’re looking to brew the perfect cup, check out How Long Do You Steep Black Tea Bags for the Perfect Brew? to learn proper steeping times. And be sure to Unlock the Secrets: 10 Best Ways to Store Black Tea for Optimum Quality to keep your tea fresh.

What Are the Main Types of Tea?

2. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea is an excellent example of herbal tea. Many people prefer this herbal tea due to its therapeutic purposes. It is an excellent choice for those people having a problem with sleep.

The tea is made from the dried flowers of the chamomile plant. These flowers release a sweet fragrance that also helps to describe plants belonging to the Asteraceae family.

Roman chamomile and German chamomile are two main blends of this herbal tea. These blends are obtained from different plant species.

Chamomile tea supports the health of the digestive system. It also brings a calming effect that enhances a healthy sleeping habit. Going for chamomile tea would be an excellent choice.

To Read More About Chamomile tea and Recipes Click Here

3. Ginger Tea

Ginger tea is a spicy herbal tea loved by many people. The tea is derived from a spicy rhizome of the ginger plant. It comes with a lot of health benefits worth the value of your money.

Ginger spice adds flavors to a variety of culinary dishes and beverages. The spice makes the dishes delicious and healthful tea.

Research shows that ginger spice is reputable for therapeutic purposes since ancient times. It is an excellent choice for every household.

Ginger tea contains gingerols and shogaols compounds ideal for boosting the immune system. It enables the body to respond to the inflammations.

Besides that, intake of steaming hot ginger tea helps treat nausea. It also helps some people get through motion sickness.

4. Green Tea

Green tea is a true tea with a lot of health benefits. The tea is popular in Millenia and originates from China. Green tea is a popular choice in the Eastern part of the planet like Japan.

Green tea comes with unique types of tea flavors. Some of the most common types of green tea are matcha, sencha, and genmaicha.

Regular consumption helps to reduce the risk of cancer, insulin resistance, and blood pressure. It also increases glycemic control.

green tea

5. Hibiscus Tea

Hibiscus tea is made from flowers of hibiscus plants. The plant is native to North Africa and Southeast Asia. The plant thrives in subtropical and tropical climates across the world.

The red brew is usually sweet and tart. The hibiscus tea is fantastic and refreshing in summer. It is usually enjoyed as iced tea.

The tea is rich in antioxidants that help to flush out toxic elements from the body. It also helps to manage and control cholesterol levels in the body.

I’m a big fan of this tea because it boosts the level of metabolism rate. It is an excellent option for those people battling with excess weight gain. It also supports the health of the liver.

To Read More About Benefits of Hibiscus Tea Click Here

6. Mint Tea

Mint tea comes from peppermint leaves and stems. It is a popular herbal tea commonly used in many herbal infusions.

Mint brew has an exciting smell and taste. The excellent tastes and health benefits happen to be the reason behind its popularity.

Mint tea is ideal for settling stomach upsets. The peppermint oils help to support digestion and also make the belly feel better.

Another important feature to note is that mint tea causes relaxation in the tummy, and it helps to ease spasms in the gut.

Besides that, this herbal tea is free from caffeine. But it also helps to boost the energy level in the body which reduces the feeling of sleepiness.

7. Oolong Tea

Oolong tea is a partially oxidized tea type. But the level of the oxidation process usually ranges between green and black.

Green oolong tea is lighter. The flavor of the tea is similar to that of green tea. The tea usually lacks the grassiness and floral tastes.

Black oolong tea is similar to black tea. It is made from roasted florals and ripe fruits. The production of oolong tea is unique and different from others.

The most common types of oolong tea are red robe, dancing, high mountain Taiwanese and Tieguanyin tea.

These kinds of oolong tea have plenty of health benefits.

8. Pu-erh Tea

Pu-erh tea is a fermented true tea also known as a detox tea. The tea is rich in properties that foster cleansing, slimming, and nourishing the body.

Pu-erh tea is processed through a unique microbial process. The tea usually has a bitter-tasting taste. The addition of addictive-like honey or sugar will foster sweet-tasting in the long run.

The detox tea has a reputation for boosting energy levels and flushing free radicals from the body. It also promotes healthy bone formation and heart health.

This bitter-tasting tea is popular in China. The tea has some content of caffeine which has helped to spearhead their popularity.

9. Rooibos Tea

Rooibos tea has a red hue with a sweet and slightly floral taste. The herbal tea is also known as red tea or red bush tea. It is made from fermented leaves of Aspalathus linearis shrub.

The plant is native to South Africa. But rooibos tea has no major reputation in the healthy food industry. A lot of research is being undertaken to determine crucial chemical compounds.

The rooibos tea is rich in antioxidant compounds that protect the body against oxidative stress and support heart health.

One of my favorite properties is the presence of mineral ions. These ingredients help to support teeth and bone formation.

10. White Tea

White tea is mild in taste when compared to other true teas. It has a low content of caffeine that makes it ideal for a lighter drink.

The white tea is made from freshly gathered and partially oxidized leaves to give it a delicate tasting.

The brewing is white tea usually takes about two to five minutes depending on your recipe.

The type of tea is rich in antioxidants that help to reduce the risk of heart diseases and other types of cancer. The chemical compounds also protect the teeth and foster weight loss.

The most popular types of white tea are silver needles and Pai Mu Dan. Silver needle white tea comes from young buds and Pai Mu Dan from buds, leaves, and stalks.

11. Yellow Tea

Yellow tea is lightly fermented and it belongs to a mysterious category of teas. The process of fermentation usually results in a mellow flavor.

main types of tea yellow tea

Keep in mind that the tea type is popular in China and it is not available in teabags. Some of the popular types of yellow teas are Junshan Yinzhen and Huoshan Huangyan.

The Junshan Yinzhen comes from young buds. The houshan Huangyan is made from buds, leaves, and stalks. The tea has a light and mellow flavor similar to that of green tea.

Yellow tea is an excellent choice for those individuals looking to shed extra pounds and treat inflammatory bowel diseases.

12. Dark Tea

Dark tea undergoes a long fermentation process. The tea producer and fermentation process usually determine the flavor of the tea.

The long fermentation process makes dark tea to be the most expensive tea in the market. The tea is produced in the Yuan Province, China.

The raw dark tea is closer to green tea, and ripe dark tea is similar to black tea. The raw dark tea needs to age to eradicate the bitter-tasting. But you can still drink it before aging.

The tea is rich in ingredients that have plenty of health properties. It contains nutrients that nourish your heart to prevent common diseases.

13. Matcha Tea

Matcha tea is a premium Japanese green tea. The finest shade-grown tea leaves are normally picked and crushed into powdery form.

The tea usually has a strong, bitter, and grassy taste. Many people prefer adding sugar and milk to make a taste-like green tea latte.

The grounded leaves used in making matcha tea are rich in health benefits. The antioxidant properties help to protect the body against potential oxidizing stress.

main types of tea matcha tea

Besides that, regular consumption of matcha tea helps to reduce the risks of heart diseases. These health benefits are the reason behind the high demand for matcha tea in the market.

14. Lemon Tea

Lemon tea is a combination of green and black tea. The lemon juice is added to the mixture to bring out the lemonade flavor.

You can drink lemon tea either hot or cold. The lemon ingredient helps to foster the burning of the belly fats and loss of excess body weight.

Besides that, it is an excellent source of hydration and detoxification drink. Excessive consumption of lemon tea might ruin your teeth’ enamel.

Keep in mind that lemon tea is rare in many households. Many people prefer this concoction when treating common flu and sore throat.

15. Chai Tea

Chai and tea may sound like a repetition. But it is a type of tea consumed in Asia. Chai is a Hindi word that describes tea. The term is popular in East African Countries that grow tea.

Chai tea is a warming and creamy tea. It is rich in polyphenols which contribute to the health and well-being of an individual.

A strong brew usually has a bitter-tasting. The addition of milk and other sweeteners helps to eradicate the bitter taste.

Many Indians prefer a strong brew of chai tea. The high caffeine content helps to stimulate the mind and increases the energy level in the body.

16. Earl Grey Tea

Earl grey tea is yet another popular flavored tea of British origin. Many people usually prefer this concoction due to its medicinal properties.

The tea is made from the traditional black tea infused with bergamot orange rind oils. It is typically known for boosting immunity and enhancing weight loss.

17. Raspberry Leaf Tea

It is a relaxing and refreshing non-caffeinated drink. The raspberry leaf tea is rich in potassium, Vitamin B, and magnesium.

These ingredients are helpful to pregnant women. Intake of raspberry leaf tea helps to promote thickening of the uterus wall.

main types of tea raspberry tea

18. Dandelion Tea

Dandelion tea is an excellent alternative to a coffee drink. It is made from roasting dandelion roots. The tea has a floral tasting and helps to aid food digestion.

The dandelion plant is edible and is grown almost everywhere. The tea made from dandelion is usually light and mild in taste.

The plant is believed to have many health benefits. But there is no scientific proof to ascertain these health benefits.

19. Peppermint Tea

Peppermint tea is an excellent type of tea to consider. The tea is rich in flavors and a nice tasting for you. Addition of lemon juice helps to bring out the sour taste.

The brewing of peppermint tea usually takes about three to twelve minutes. But this depends on the taste and preference of a person.

Peppermint tea contains essential oils for boosting the mood. The tea can also be used to soothe stomach upsets and pain.

20. Cinnamon Tea

Cinnamon is a popular spice for many dishes. The aromatic tea fosters weight loss and reduces inflammation in the body associated with some health conditions.

Cinnamon tea is free from caffeine, and the addition of sugar makes it have a sweet taste. The type of tea is suitable for both adults and children.

main types of tea cinnamon tea

The calming and refreshing effect makes the tea suitable for boosting the mood. It would be best to consider drinking early in the morning.

21. Jasmine Tea

It is a famous Chinese infusion herbal tea. Jasmine tea is made from the blossoms of jasmine. It is later combined with either white, black, or green tea.

The brewing of this herbal tea usually takes about two to three minutes. Daily consumption of jasmine tea helps to boost the immune system and reduce the risk of heart diseases.

Besides that, the aromatic and relaxing effect of this low-caffeinated tea help to boost the mood. It also helps to relieve stress and anxiety in the long run.

22. Nettle Tea

The nettle tea is also known as stinging nettle tea. The type of tea is derived from dried leaves of the Urtica dioica plant.

Nettle tea has a light, grassy and earthy tasting. The tasting comes also with a mild and refreshing taste ideal for both old and young adults.

Research shows that the nettle leaves have phenolic compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties. These ingredients help to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia in men.

23. Darjeeling Tea

The type of tea is also known as the champagne of teas. The Darjeeling tea originates from India and it comes in a different form.

Some of the popular variations of Darjeeling tea are white, black, green, and oolong tea. Each variation has unique tasting and health properties.

The tea is lightly-colored with floral scents. It has plenty of antioxidants that help to prevent health-related issues. It is ideal for weight loss and good oral health.

24. Rosehip Tea

The herbal tea is rich in vitamin C since it is extracted from the parched fruits. Sometimes, the tea is also made from the flowers of a rose plant.

The fruit beverage is ideal for boosting the immune system. Vitamin C will help to protect the body against oxidative stresses.

25. Assam Tea

It is also known as Irish or English breakfast tea. The type of tea is mainly grown in the Assam region of India and other parts of the world.

The dark reddish-brown caffeinated tea has a malty and sharp sour taste. The ingredients help to boost energy levels and mental vigilance.

Read More About Assam Tea and How to make it Click Here

26. Ceylon Tea

It is also known as Sri Lanka Tea. The Ceylon tea is hand-processed from black tea. It is brightly colored with strong flavors.

You can serve Ceylon tea as iced tea or milk tea. Intake of Ceylon tea helps to regulate insulin and blood sugar level. This type of tea is ideal for those people suffering from diabetic conditions.

27. Ginseng Tea

The herbal tea is made from the roots of Ginseng plants. Ginseng tea originates from Korea and it is ideal for promoting weight loss.

Ginseng tea variations are Siberian, Asian, and American. It has chemical compounds for reducing the menstrual cycle, mental and sexual issues.

28. Echinacea Tea

The tea is obtained from the leaves, flowers, and roots of the echinacea plant. The echinacea tea is usually consumed due to its medicinal properties.

Research shows that echinacea tea is rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral compounds. These ingredients help to boost the immune system of an individual.

29. Yerba Mate Tea

It is a popular traditional drink in South America. It has grown in popularity in Europe and many football players are consuming it.

Yerba tea is made from the leaves of the holly tree grown in the South American rainforest. It has a deep and strong taste.

It has a higher percentage of caffeine that boosts energy levels. The mood-boosting properties help to alleviate mental stress and anxiety.

The extracts of the leaves also help to promote improved blood flow, decrease belly fats and reduce blood viscosity.

30. Chrysanthemum Tea

The tea is made from the flowers of the Chrysanthemum plant. The tea has a deep and intense tasting infusion. It is highly consumed in East Asia.

The ingredients of chrysanthemum tea are known for treating hyperthyroidism, stabilizing blood pressure, and curing respiratory ailments.

31. Tulsi Tea

The herbal tea is made from the leaves of holy basil or tulsi plants. The natural healing tea is an excellent stress reliever, stimulant, digestive agent, and anti-inflammatory.

The drink has zero caffeine. But it is also ideal for boosting the energy levels in the body. Many people prefer drinking tea before bedtime.

32. Sencha Tea

It is a popular Japanese green tea. Sencha tea is grown under the sun, and it is made by infusing the whole tea leaves.

This traditional Japanese green tea has mild flavors and bold green color. The tea is rich in medicinal properties for healing several health conditions.

33. Valerian Tea

Valerian tea is another herbal tea last on the list. The tea is made from the dried stems and roots of the Valerian plant.

This herbal tea helps to relieve stress, improve the quality of sleep and alleviate menstrual symptoms in women.

Choosing the best type of tea for drinking is not that difficult. The taste and preference of every person usually vary.

FAQs

1. What are the six main categories of tea?

The main categories of tea can be summarized as follows:

Black tea – Fully oxidized and bold tasting
Green tea – Unoxidized with grassy, vegetal notes
Oolong tea – Partially oxidized with flavor between green and black teas
White tea – Minimally processed and oxidized, delicate flavor
Pu-erh tea – Aged, fermented tea with earthy flavors
Herbal tea – Caffeine-free blends made from fruits, flowers, herbs

In brief, most teas can be classified into one of these six major types: black, green, oolong, white, pu-erh and herbal. This encompasses the broad spectrum of teas enjoyed around the world.

2. Can i drink different types of tea a day?

Yes, you can. Here are a few points to consider:

Variety: Drinking different types of tea can provide a range of flavors and health benefits.
Moderation: It’s important not to overconsume, as some teas contain caffeine.
Hydration: Tea can contribute to your daily hydration needs.
Health: Some teas have specific health benefits, like aiding digestion or providing antioxidants.

3. What is the most common type of tea?

The most common type of tea worldwide is Black Tea. It’s known for its strong flavor and higher caffeine content compared to other teas. It’s the base for many well-known flavored teas like Earl Grey and Chai, and it’s commonly used in iced tea.

4. What are the 2 main types of tea?

The two main types of tea are:

1.Green Tea: Known for its lighter flavor and color, green tea is less processed than other types and retains more of its antioxidants. It’s popular in Asian countries and has been linked to various health benefits.

2. Black Tea: This is the most commonly consumed type of tea worldwide. It undergoes a full oxidation process, which gives it a darker color, stronger flavor, and higher caffeine content compared to green tea.

In Conclusion

Black tea and green tea are some of my favorites from the list. These teas have the most health benefits when compared to other true teas.

It would be best to consider herbal teas described in the guide. It is ideal for those individuals that do not consume caffeinated beverages. Most herbal teas are non-caffeinated drinks.

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