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Tea is one of the most popular and beloved drinks in the world. According to a blog on the Tea Culture of the World, a website all about tea and its traditions, it was first discovered in China, and later introduced to England by the Indians. This delicious drink can be consumed in so many different forms, temperatures, and there are numerous types available. Two of the most popular varieties are green tea and black tea. But what sets them apart and what benefits do they offer?
Origin and health benefits of green and black tea
Both green and black tea are considered healthy drinks, according to mindbodygreen. They both come from the leaves of the same plant, a plant by the name of Camellia sinensis, and share several similar and extraordinary health benefits. They are both rich in antioxidants, good for your heart and contain properties that have a calming effect on the person drinking it.
Although some enjoy the caffeine kick that tea gives them in the morning, green tea contains significantly less caffeine than black tea, and both have less caffeine than coffee. That makes it a great option for people looking to reduce their caffeine intake while still enjoying some of the mood-lifting and energizing effects.
Popular types of black teas you may have heard of include Earl Gray, chai, asaam, Ceylon and English breakfast. According to Mind Body Green, some of the black teas are named after the place they were produced, like asaam, while others are blends, such as Earl Gray. Common green tea options include sencha, sancha and the super popular matcha, which at this point is a staple in most coffee shops and can be consumed hot or iced.
Which one is better for you?
The main difference between green and black tea, explains Healthline, is that black tea is oxidized and green tea isn't. That means that in the process of making the tea, black tea is exposed to air in a way that causes the oxidation process. That is what gives black teas a dark color and intensified flavor compared to the lighter color and more mild flavor of green teas.
The bottom line is that both types of tea offer numerous health benefits. But is there one that is better for you than the other? According to Healthline, the answer is no. Both green and black tea are a great addition to your diet and provide valuable benefits to your physical and mental wellbeing as well. So drink up!
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