Tea is becoming so popular it seems that it is everywhere. It has origins that go back hundreds of years. Some cultures drink their tea hot. Other cultures prepare tea a certain way. The people of India drink their tea with milk. People in the southern portion of the United States drink sweet tea, a long accepted southern custom. Tea is easy to make and can be purchased just about anywhere. Green tea is quickly becoming popular because of its many and amazing health benefits.
Here are a few quick facts:
- All tea is derived from the same species of plant called Camellia Sinensis.
- There are four main types of tea: black, white, green, and oolong. The only difference between these is the manner in which they are processed.
- There are numerous subtypes of tea that fall under these four main types.
- Tea contains caffeine but it is less than half that of coffee.
The caffeine levels vary depending by type of tea.- Tea can vary by color, flavor, aroma, and astringency (dryness).
- Herbal tea is not real tea. It is not derived from the Camellia Sinensis plant. Herbal teas come from infusions of fruit or herbs.
- Preparation of tea varies by tea type.