Tea, being one of the ancient beverages and delicious undertakings is the second most consumed beverage in the world after water. It is prepared by soaking dried leaves in water. There are some people that prefer choosing to drink tea instead of coffee as certain blends are highly refreshing without the same level of caffeine. Also, it has a stimulating effect in human body and mind.

Drinking a cup of tea in a day will help you to stay healthy and happy. It is a complex beverage having various flavors and varieties due to variation in regions of cultivation and methods of production. There are an innumerable number of various types of teas that range from black to endless spiced teas.

There are many varieties of teas and it is common for other flavors to get blended with these varieties. Some of the most common varieties of teas available in the market include the following:

1. Black Tea
2. Green Tea
3. White Tea
4. Oolong Tea
5. Yellow Tea
6. Herbal Tea

With a plethora of varieties, it is difficult to know where to start from. If you are new to tea or planning to try out new flavors, then below is a guide that will help you to understand the different types of teas available. The difference in flavors along with compositions has also been mentioned to distinguish the varieties of types easily. Here it is……

Black Tea:

Black tea, also known as red tea is among highly popular flavors of tea and is fully oxidized. The black color of the tea is due to the oxidation process that take place. The leaves are withered, rolled, fermented and dried for producing a strong, full-bodied flavor.

Some of the most popular black tea producing regions include Assam, Darjeeling, Nilgiri and parts of Sri Lanka. The flavor may vary based on the region and type of black tea cultivated. Fortunately, this particular variety of tea is available almost all around the year and stands out to be a great beverage.

Flavor profile: Distinctly dark, malty and strong

Aroma: Earthy, floral and sweet

Most popular varieties available: Assam CTC, Darjeeling leaf tea, Assam-Darjeeling Blend

Health benefits:

1. Works as an anti-oxidant
2. Helpful in fighting cancer
3. Promotes health of hair, skin and bones
4. Good for treating digestive problems
5. Prevents dehydration

Green Tea:

Green tea is un-oxidized and comprises less amount of caffeine in comparison to black tea. Leaves are picked and dried followed by heat-treated for preventing oxidization process. During the process of drying, the leaves are rolled into long twigs based on the varieties of green tea to be produced.

Green tea has been regarded as one of the healthiest choices. Tea lovers will prefer joining the bandwagon of tea leaves due to a plethora of health benefits. With high levels of natural polyphenols, green tea helps the body to combat a wide range of ailments,

Flavor profile: Flavorful, mild and light

Aroma: Grassy, light and fresh

Most popular varieties available: Herbal, Specialty, Royal, Premium

 Health benefits:

1. Promotes weight loss
2. Improves functions of the brain
3. Prevents further spreading of cancer causing cells
4. Best for people suffering from heart-related issues
5. Improves digestion-related problems

White Tea:

White tea, is becoming popular among tea lovers slowly. It is an exceptional variety and youngest variety of tea that is least processed in comparison to other types of teas. The buds and leaves are harvested before they become matured. The tea is known for benefitting people in terms of health manifold.

After plucking, the tea leaves are left for withering. Instead of using a machine for drying the leaves, they are allowed to dry on their own. The amount of caffeine content may be considered to be almost negligible. But it is rich in polyphenols and anti-oxidants.

Flavor profile: Delicate, naturally sweet and well-rounded

Aroma: Fresh and soothing

Most popular varieties available: Needle, Emarald and Tea Pearl

Health benefits: 

1. Prevents teeth from the attack of bacteria
2. Lowers the risk of insulin resistance
3. Provides high protection against osteoporosis
4. Combats aging of the skin
5. Protects against Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease

Oolong Tea:

Oolong tea is a traditional tea that is semi-oxidized due to which its taste varies in terms of oxidation level. The tea leaves are bruised by tossing and shaking in baskets due to which the process of oxidation varies. Also, these leaves are heat-treated for the purpose of stopping the oxidation process.

The amount of heating and preheating varies from one region-to-the other along with the type of flavor to be created. Being rich in anti-oxidant level, oolong tea is known for comprising numerous health benefits.

Flavor profile: Light, fragrant, dark and full-bodied

Aroma: Refreshing

Most popular varieties available: Royal, Marvelous, Exquisite, Elegant

Health benefits: 

1. Lowers blood pressure and levels of cholesterol
2. Prevents the growth of cancerous tumours
3. Boosts the immune system
4. Prevents heart-related ailments
5. Enhances mental and physical endurance

Yellow Tea:

Yellow tea is a special type of tea that is gaining wide popularity due to its distinguishable taste. Its smooth texture, pleasing aroma, fruity and distinct aftertaste are some exclusive characteristics. For achieving the bright yellow color, the tea leaves undergo “Sealed yellowing”.

Though similar to green tea, but is known for having lots more nutrients. During processing, the grassy smell is removed followed by preserving the health qualities of the green tea. Yellow tea is known especially for smooth, aromatic and sweet floral taste.

Flavor profile: Fruity and distinct

Aroma: Pleasing

Most popular varieties available: Whole leaves

Health benefits: 

1. Promotes easy loss of weight
2. Good for ensuring good health for liver
3. Prevents diabetes
4. Increases appetite
5. Helps treating signs of wrinkles

Herbal Tea:

Herbal tea refers to special types of beverages that are made by the infusion of herbs, spices and other plant materials. It is prepared from the cured leaves of Camellia sinensis. Unlike coffee, it is devoid of caffeine. The vitamins and anti-oxidants found are great for fighting disease and infections.

Herbal teas have been considered as warriors in the battle against poor health. The mixture of ginger, mint, tulsi, cinnamon and pepper land to a strong upper cut against illnesses of any type.

Flavor profile: Subtle

Aroma: Refreshing

Most popular varieties available: Kashmiri Kahwa, Lemon green, Earl grey, Blue tea, Chamomile, Hibiscus, Jasmine

Health benefits: 

• Helpful in reducing menstrual pain
• Helps in reducing stress
• Improves level of sleep
• Gives a boost to cholesterol
• Relieves the body from allergies