Tea is a common beverage made from steeping processed Camellia sinensis leaves with hot water. Numerous studies show that it might have some health benefits. However, all teas are different, and some might offer more benefits than the others. In this blog learn about the hidden benefits in each tea type and the brewing methods for a perfect cuppa.

CHOOSING GOOD TEA

Tea made in the traditional way (called the orthodox method) retains the sophistication that natural soil, and climatic factors induce. Tea packed at source, retaining its freshness and in particular tea that maintains the purity of its origin – single origin, single region or single estate tea – is best.

STORING TEA

Tea is hygroscopic, absorbing moisture and similarly odours or fragrance. Store your tea in an airtight container, and keep it away from moisture, heat, light and odours. Stored in a cool and dry place never warmer than (30C). For medium term storage, keep your stocks of tea in an airtight foil pouch or ceramic container in the refrigerator.

BREWING

Brewing is the extraction of the goodness nature has induced in the tea leaves. Using the right amount of tea for the volume of tea you wish to brew is critical, as is the method of brewing. Check out details of brewing for each tea type below.

STIRRING

Once the tea and freshly boiled water are combined, the leaves or tea bag tend to settle at the bottom of the teapot, reducing the contact between tea leaves and water. Stir to agitate the tea and allow proper extraction.

Types of Tea:

BLACK TEA

Benefits: Energy Booster

This tea is made from the same plant that’s used to make green tea. However, the leaves are dried and fermented, giving black tea a darker

colour and richer flavour. This tea accounts for roughly three quarters of the world’s consumption, which isn’t that surprising considering it has the highest levels of caffeine at around 40mg per cup, making it perfect for a pre workout booster. It also contains flavonoids that combat inflammation and support healthy immune function.

Brewing guide:

• Loose leaf/ Tea Bag: 1 tsp = 1 Tea bag
• Water: 7.5 fl oz. (220ml) 
• Brewing: 200-210F (95-100C)
• Brewing Time: 3-5 Minutes (3 Minutes Normal brew, 5 Minutes for strong brew)

GINGER

Benefits: Enhanced Recovery

Thanks to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, this herbal tea is a perfect post-workout brew as it can help to sooth aching muscles. It can also help fight morning sickness, nausea and relive joint pain. You can also make it from a slice of fresh ginger, or half teaspoon powdered ginger, just by adding it into a cup with boiling water.

Brewing guide:

• Loose leaf/ Tea Bag: 1 tsp = 1 Tea bag
• Water: 7.5 fl oz. (220ml) 
• Brewing: 200-210F (95-100C) 
• Brewing Time: 3-5 Minutes

GREEN TEA

Benefits: Fat Burner

This tea originates from China and Japan. It can help speed up metabolism to burn more calories, making it a popular supplement. It is exceptionally high in flavonoids that can help boost your heart health by lowering bad cholesterol and reducing blood clotting. Studies also show this type of tea can help lower blood pressure, triglycerides and total cholesterol. It’s also packed with potent antioxidants that can help prevent certain forms of cancer. For maximum impact, drink the matcha variety, made with powdered green leaves, that contain even more antioxidants that regular green tea. Be aware though that Green Tea is high in caffeine in case you think it is a caffein free option

Brewing guide:

• Loose leaf/ Tea Bag: 1 tsp = 1 Tea bag
• Water: 7.5 fl oz. (220ml) 
• Brewing: 150-160F (65-70C)
• Brewing Time: 2-4 Minutes

CHAMOMILE

Benefits: Relaxation and Sleep

Made from the flower of the same name, this sweet beverage has been found to reduce anxiety and stress levels making it a perfect choice for improved sleep and relaxation. Bonus: it can also help to alleviate chesty coughs. 

Brewing guide:

• Loose leaf/ Tea Bag: 1 tsp = 1 Tea bag
• Water: 7.5 fl oz. (220ml) 
• Brewing: 200F (90C)
• Brewing Time: 3-5 Minutes

PEPPERMINT

Benefits: Digestive Aid

This minty brew contains menthol, which can improve mobility in your digestive tract to help relieve the symptoms of upset stomach, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome and motion sickness. This tea variety can also offer pain relief from tension headaches and migraines. It’s also an easy herb to cultivate in your garden, for a homegrown cup. Just dry the leaves and add boiling water.

Brewing guide:

• Loose leaf/ Tea Bag: 1 tsp = 1 Tea bag
• Water: 7.5 fl oz. (220ml) 
• Brewing: 200-210F (95-100C) 
• Brewing Time: 3-5 Minutes

OOLONG TEA

Benefits: Mental Alertness

Oolong tea is traditional Chinese tea variety that’s made from the same plant used to make green and black teas, the difference is in how it is processed. Oolong tea contains l-theanine, an amino acid that reduces anxiety and increases alertness and attention. It is also high in polyphenols, which are linked to lowering inflammation, preventing the growth of cancers and decreasing type 2 diabetes risk.

Brewing guide:

• Loose leaf/ Tea Bag: 1 tsp = 1 Tea bag
• Water: 7.5 fl oz. (220ml) 
• Brewing: 175-190F (80-90c)
• Brewing Time: 2-3 Minutes

WHITE TEA

Benefits: Defying Age

A delicate and smooth tea that is native to China and India. The leaves are picked when very young. This variety of tea contains the least amount of caffeine at just 15mg per cup. It has high levels of polyphenols, which strengthen the elastin in your skin to help combat wrinkles. It’s also high in antioxidants and contains a high source of fluoride, catechises and tannins, which can strengthen teeth.

Brewing guide:

• Loose leaf/ Tea Bag: 1 tsp = 1 Tea bag
• Water: 7.5 fl oz. (220ml)
• Brewing: 160-175F (70-80C)
• Brewing Time: 2-3 Minutes

Why not make yourself a cuppa of your choice and join us online this Saturday, 10th December at 10am for our next Reflection, Coffee (or tea!) and Conversation with Claire Hollingsworth from the Fitfish team? It’s free to join and you can register to attend here.