How To Brew Silver Needle White Tea? All Answers

What exactly is white tea? Originally grown in China’s Fujian province, but now also produced in India and Japan, these delicate, rich, spring-harvested teas owe their name to the pearly white hairs on the tea plant’s buds that emerge after they dry or wither in the sun.

Only lightly oxidized white teas are never fermented or roasted, so they retain a much more subtle flavor and an abundance of the tea’s natural antioxidants.

Types of White Teas

White tea of ​​the highest quality can appear in bud-only form, such as the precious Silver Needle (Yin Zhen Bai Hao), or in mixed bud-and-leaf form, such as White Peony (Bai Mudan). White teas that consist only of buds take longer to wilt after plucking and also take longer to steep in water than white teas with more leaves.

Tea Tip: Whole leaf tea is almost always preferable to tea bags, both for the quality of the tea inside (whole and no broken shards or dust) and the amount of space the tea is given to move around during steeping to expand

what you will need

For a practical, everyday white tea device, you need a small pot like a ho-hin (or a gaiwan) that allows for leaf expansion, decent temperature control, and the joys of reinfusion. (For these reasons, avoid a tall, tea-thirsty British teapot, for example, or a stylish modern pot that confines your tea to a filter basket high up.)

How to make steep

Rinse the soaking vessel with hot water first to clean and heat it.

White teas like a temperature of 180 to 185°F, so be careful not to scald the tea with water that is too hot. Some electric kettles can be set to turn off before the water boils. If you’re using a stovetop tea kettle, measure the water with a thermometer to familiarize yourself with how long it takes to heat to 180°, or how long it takes to cool after boiling correct temperature.

Be generous with the tea – use at least 2 tablespoons for every 8 ounces of water. For leafy white teas, steep for 4 to 5 minutes. For bud-only teas, add an extra minute or two to allow the flavors to really develop.

What you will experience

White tea offers greater body dimension and lacks some of the bitterness that you may be familiar with from other teas. The smooth, delicate flavors range from buttery to sweet, fruity and floral, and of course every tea is different. Since white tea has a lower caffeine content than other teas (and higher catechins content), you should enjoy a few more cups!

Why is silver needle tea so expensive?

We have already explained how tea is made and the definition of white tea in the previous article. The next question our customers usually ask is “why is silver needle tea so expensive?”.

Silverneedle tea is a type of white tea – meaning it is made from new leaves and buds of the tea plant. The leaves are picked and sun-dried, meaning the process retains many more antioxidants than other types of tea.

The finest tea among the white teas is the silver needle, which is harvested by hand from tiny, young leaves of the tea plant. The tiny buds are then withered and air dried once they are harvested.

During this process you will find that the tea farmers only take the youngest buds. Great care is taken to preserve the fine white hairs on the tea leaves. And the most expensive of the white teas is the silver needle, which is made from just the individual tips of the tea stem. The harvesting process is very time consuming and production is limited – making it one of the rarest teas on the market.

Busting some myths

Well, wait a minute. Shouldn’t white teas be like…super delicious, delicate and fragile and all?

I was told that for a long time too. And many of these myths actually keep us from fully understanding Silver Needle, so let’s clear up a few big things first before we dive deep into the details.

Myth #1: White tea has the least caffeine of all teas.

“Only 1% of the caffeine in a cup of coffee!” I was told when I first bought a Silver Needle.

In fact, white teas often contain more caffeine than other types of tea (more on that in a minute). Silver Needle in particular can contain some of the highest levels of caffeine per cup!

And that really makes sense when you think about it.

Why would the buds, which are basically supposed to be the young whippersnapper parts of the plant, be weak and low in energy? (Spoiler alert: They really aren’t. Just try drinking a Silver Needle late at night and see what happens.)

This leads us to another misunderstanding.

Myth #2: Silver Needle is a delicate tea that requires cooler water to brew.

So the idea here is that the young buds are so tender and fragile that boiling water would scorch them. For example, I was told to brew my first Silver Needle at 85°C (175°F) and I did that for a long, long time.

On the contrary. Naturally, tea buds are delicate but tough, and the protective fuzz on the tea buds helps to repel water to a certain extent – so we need to use hot water and a little force to extract the goodness inside.

So unless you have a broken (and probably substandard) Silver Needle, you no longer need that lukewarm weak water for white teas. OK?

We’ll talk more about brewing later. But now that we’ve dispelled those myths, we have a better chance of REALLY getting to know this tea.

And boy is it worth it. From what I’ve seen, the “tender” Silver Needle can come in a surprising array of flavors: some are light and floral with some vanilla ice cream vibes, while others are wilder, herbier, and downright zesty!

Myth #3: Silver Needle is always better than other white teas because it’s higher quality and/or more expensive.

While it’s true that Silver Needle is quite expensive in the tea market and commands attention, what exactly you get will depend on a few factors, which we’ll cover in the rest of this guide.

And while I’m by no means an expert on Silver Needle, I think this is more than enough to keep you confident and comfortable with your Bai Hao Yin Zhen.

So go ahead and explore!

White tea

White tea is one of several types of tea that generally contain young or minimally processed leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. The color of the brewed white tea is pale yellow. Its name derives from the fine, silvery-white hairs on the unopened buds of the tea plant, which give the plant a whitish appearance. The taste of white tea is very light compared to black tea and green tea. Some people describe the taste of white tea as sweet and silky.

Nutritional Value of White Tea

White tea contains nutrients and antimicrobial properties that protect the body from the onset of diseases. It contains polyphenols, a range of phytonutrients, and varying amounts of catechins, a category of polyphenols. In addition, white tea also contains other tannins, fluorides and flavonoids. These are responsible for the various benefits that white tea offers.

Nutritional values ​​Per 1 serving

0.3 calories 0.3 mg sodium 2.7 mg potassium 0.1 g total carbohydrates 0 protein

vitamins and minerals

0.10% magnesium

Health Benefits of White Tea

Listed below are the top health benefits of white tea

Antioxidant properties of white tea

White tea contains antioxidants in larger amounts. These antioxidants have many health-promoting properties, including promoting cardiovascular health, lowering cholesterol, reducing the risk of cancer, and promoting weight loss. The presence of free radicals in the body causes damage to various body organs. White tea contains polyphenols that help neutralize these free radicals, making them less harmful to the body. White tea extracts, with their antioxidant properties, also help with cellular neuroprotection.

White tea for antiaging

High phenol content strengthens elastin and collagen and EGCG promotes hair growth. It reduces premature aging by repairing and maintaining cells. It shields the body from harmful UV rays, promoting healthy and youthful skin.

White tea for cancer prevention

White tea is a potential anticancer and chemopreventive agent, and its extract can induce apoptosis, or cell death, and help prevent new cell growth in lung cancer. White tea has anti-mutagenic properties, it is packed with antioxidants and flavonoids which are known to inhibit cancer cell proliferation. It has already achieved a success rate of up to 50% in fighting stomach, colon and prostate cancer.

White tea to prevent diabetes

White tea’s antidiabetic properties help stave off type 2 diabetes. White tea intake may relieve diabetics from symptoms such as excessive thirst (polydipsia), decreased plasma glucose levels, and increased insulin secretion.

Improves cardiovascular diseases

Flavonoids in white tea have been linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. The flavonoids help lower blood pressure. It also helps improve dyslipidemia, endothelial function and inhibits the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins. This tea helps protect the heart and the entire circulatory system by lowering cholesterol, lowering triglycerides, thinning blood, and improving the functioning of arteries and blood vessels.

strengthening of the bones

Regular consumption of white tea can improve bone density and strength and reduce the symptoms of osteoporosis

White tea acts as an antibacterial agent

White tea is a natural killer of bacteria and viruses. The antioxidants are so abundant in white tea that it boosts the overall immune system and offers protection against a wide range of germs and a variety of diseases. It protects against cold and flu and can relieve the symptoms of HIV. Various products such as hand soap are made with this tea as the main ingredient.

Whiter tea is good for healthy teeth and gums

White tea contains fluoride and other nutrients that help keep teeth strong and healthy. It also kills the bacteria that cause plaque, tooth decay and bad breath. The fluoride, flavonoid and tannin content in white tea kills the viruses and destroys the cavities. Also because the color of white tea is much lighter; so it helps in teeth whitening.

Anti-inflammatory properties of white tea

White tea’s anti-inflammatory properties may reduce the risk of rheumatoid arthritis. For those who already have rheumatoid arthritis, white tea can curb inflammation and joint damage, and reduce some of the pain of arthritis and help relieve body aches.

White tea stimulates lipolysis and metabolism

In addition to inhibiting and mobilizing fat, white tea also helps stimulate lipolysis. Lipolysis is a process that burns fat in the body. So by drinking white tea one can burn the excess fat in the body. This leads to the loss of extra weight and the attainment of a normal body weight. A rich source of antioxidants, white tea helps in stimulating the body’s metabolic activities. When metabolism is improved, one can shed some extra pounds.

White tea to lower cholesterol

Catechins, another group of antioxidants, have been found to lower cholesterol, and white tea is teeming with them. Cholesterol is a special type of fat and is necessary for health. There’s good cholesterol and bad cholesterol, and white tea increases the good while decreasing the bad. This helps prevent hardening of the arteries and blockage of blood flow.

Use of white tea

White tea is low in caffeine compared to coffee, energy drinks, and other highly caffeinated beverages. White tea is high in the amino acid L-theanine. L-Theanine is known for many health benefits. White tea is a powerful antioxidant, promotes relaxation, aids in weight management, relieves anxiety, improves focus, and more. And L-Theanine has been shown to significantly increase alertness when combined with caffeine (which white tea contains). White tea aids in reproduction and improves memory, prevents hypothyroidism, contributes to a healthy liver, etc.

Allergy and side effects of white tea

Side effects related to white tea are mainly caused by its caffeine content. Some of the most common side effects of consuming white tea internally include insomnia, dizziness, and gastrointestinal distress. Topical application of white tea extract can cause skin irritation. White tea can also cause heart problems if consumed in excess. Consuming white tea before bed is also not recommended, as its caffeine content can inhibit sleep and keep you awake.

cultivation of white tea

Tea has many health benefits such as: B. reducing the risk of heart disease, protecting your bones, weight loss and high in antioxidants. However, there are studies that suggest that tea leaves contain more caffeine than coffee beans. Caffeine isn’t really that bad in small doses, but it can still cause anxiety and insomnia in some.

To ensure you’re getting just the right amount of caffeine into your system, let’s look at the different types of tea and their caffeine content. This can also be a good resource for people looking for a reason to leave Java completely.

Black tea

Black tea generally has about 40 to 70 milligrams of caffeine per 8-ounce serving, while coffee has about 95 to 200 milligrams. If you drink your black tea in a larger cup, you can consume a similar amount of caffeine each morning.

Green tea

Caffeine content in green tea falls in the mid-range at 35 to 45 milligrams per 8-ounce serving. While it’s definitely less than black tea, it’s still higher than other types of tea, such as black tea. B. white tea. Green tea is a gentler source of stimulants. If you want to significantly reduce your caffeine consumption but don’t want to eliminate it completely, green tea is a good choice for you.

White tea

This type of tea has the lowest amount of caffeine of all teas, at only 15 to 30 milligrams per 8-ounce serving. White tea is considered one of the most delicate types of tea because it is the least processed.

Oolong tea

Oolong tea is a traditional Chinese tea that offers a more diverse flavor, body, and complexity than all major tea varieties in the United States. Its caffeine content is between that found in black tea and green tea, at 37 to 55 milligrams per 8-ounce serving.

herbal tea

Herbal teas like chamomile, ginger, and peppermint contain no caffeine at all. This is because these teas are not made from the Camellia sinensis plant like most teas. They are instead made from dried flowers, leaves, seeds, or roots, which are generally caffeine-free. If you’re looking for a nighttime tea, herbal tea is a great choice.

Tea definitely offers more choices in terms of the amount of caffeine it contains while still enjoying its many health benefits. You can easily increase or decrease your caffeine intake depending on the variety of tea. So go ahead, pour yourself a cup or two and enjoy!

This article provides general information about medical conditions and treatments. The information does not constitute advice and should not be treated as such. The information is not intended to replace the advice or diagnosis of a physician. If you have specific questions about medical matters, consult your doctor or other professional healthcare provider.

If you’re looking to lose weight, we might have something to add to your eating plan. Move over your usual cup of tea with milk and replace it with these three concoctions that will speed up your weight loss – puerh tea (black tea), blue tea, green tea and white tea. These teas are designed not only to help you burn your belly fat, but also to speed up your metabolism, which further aids in weight loss. According to several scientific studies, drinking these teas actually helps reduce your hunger and cravings that prevent you from packing on calories. Let’s look at how these teas can really help you lose weight the healthy way.

Black Tea or Puerh

Puerh tea is a type of Chinese black tea that has been fermented. It is traditionally enjoyed after a meal and studies have shown that it can lower blood sugar and blood triglycerides. The boiled ripe Puerh tea can keep the stomach fit and warm, while the fresh raw Puerh tea has a better weight loss effect than the boiled tea because of its strong flavor. It helps burn fat and shed pounds, and has a deliciously smooth and deeply earthy flavor.

blue tea

Blue tea is made with the beautiful Butterfly Pea flower, which is said to help in effective weight loss. Studies have shown that regular consumption of blue tea boosts metabolism, which in turn burns excess fat. According to a study published in the International Journal of Obesity and Related Metabolic Disorders, blue tea helps prevent and combat obesity and fatty liver disease.

Green tea

Green tea is full of antioxidants and various health-promoting substances. Many studies have proven that green tea can help with fat burning and weight loss. The presence of caffeine, which is a well-known stimulant, has been shown in numerous studies to help burn fat and improve exercise performance. The active ingredients in green tea can help this process by increasing the effects of some burning hormones.

White tea

White tea has been shown to suppress appetite and increase metabolism; Therefore, drinking it regularly can help you shed those pounds. The catechins in white tea can also help boost metabolism. So, go ahead and add some white tea to your diet and lose weight the healthy way.

Combine these teas with exercise and a healthy eating plan to lose weight effectively.

White tea is a light and tasty beverage made from the same Camellia Sinensis plant as green tea. It is mainly found in China, eastern Nepal, India and Sri Lanka. For a long time not many knew about its benefits and it was limited to China, but now the world is catching on. White tea is good for the heart, liver, kidneys, skin and more. Here’s what happens when white tea is drunk regularly:

Helps with weight loss

Increases energy and alertness

Helps reduce inflammation

Improves digestion

Great for the heart

Read on to find out…

Additionally, you can check out some of the best body lotions and body whitening lotions in India.

Health Benefits of White Tea

1. Helps to lose weight

White tea helps burn fat cells and prevents new ones from forming. The catechins and antioxidants found in tea also fight free radicals and other contaminants to promote healthy and rapid weight loss. In addition, white tea also supports metabolism, which contributes to the body’s ability to burn fat. As a natural diuretic, it also reduces water retention, which leads to weight loss.

2. Increases energy and alertness

Drinking tea or coffee regularly provides a temporary boost of energy from caffeine. White tea, on the other hand, is low in caffeine, moisturizes and contributes to more sustained energy gains. The presence of L-Theanine helps increase your alertness, allowing you to work, exercise, or study well.

3. Helps reduce inflammation

Inflammation and stress in the muscles are caused by strenuous exercise or even a sedentary lifestyle. Catechins in white tea promote muscle recovery and reduce inflammation. They also reduce the risk of fibrosis caused by muscle injury. Drinking a post-workout cup of white tea along with a post-workout protein shake can do wonders.

4. Good for digestion

Undigested food can contribute to the formation of fat cells and reverse the effects of your exercise. When you consume white tea with every meal, you aid in the digestive process and ensure that the food you eat is used by your body as energy and not stored as fat.

5. Good for the heart

A healthy heart is the prerequisite for a healthy life. A weak heart leads to slower blood flow, which causes more pain in the body. It also decreases the ability to exercise or engage in physical activity for long periods of time. The antioxidants in white tea promote heart health by regulating blood pressure and improving blood vessel function.

10 important questions about white tea answered

1. Is white tea good for the skin?

Yes, drinking white tea is pretty good for your skin as it is rich in antioxidants that help eliminate free radicals, thereby preventing signs of premature aging. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, consuming white tea also helps reduce redness and inflammation caused by external factors.

2. Is white tea unhealthy?

No, white tea consumption is not harmful to health when taken in moderate amounts. White tea contains caffeine and its excessive consumption can cause insomnia, dizziness and gastrointestinal upset.

3. Which is better green tea or white tea?

White tea is a rich source of antioxidants and contains less caffeine compared to the antioxidants and caffeine found in green tea, so white tea would be a better and healthier tea choice.

4. Can white tea help with insomnia?

No, although white tea contains less caffeine, white tea cannot help cure insomnia.

5. Are there health benefits of white tea?

Yes, in addition to the above white tea benefits, this beverage also aids in effective weight loss and helps lower bad cholesterol.

6. Does white tea make you poop?

Yes, sometimes white tea can make you poop, which relieves constipation. White tea contains high levels of antioxidants, polyphenols, and catechins that help the body flush toxins and other harmful substances from the body.

7. What is the best time to drink white tea?

The best time to drink white tea is in the morning and after each meal. Make sure you don’t have more than three cups of white tea in a day.

8. Can white tea make blood thin?

Yes, drinking white tea can thin your blood and lower your blood pressure.

9. Is white tea effective in hair growth?

White tea is rich in antioxidants that can help your hair shine while promoting its health. One such antioxidant that aids in hair health and growth as well as curing premature hair loss is epigallocatechin gallate, found in abundance in white tea.

10. Can you drink white tea with milk?

You can add a small amount of milk or sugar to white tea as you like, but the mild and subtle flavor of white tea might be lost.

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Udyan tea

tea box

Most people are familiar with the classic true teas like green, black, and oolong, but there is actually a fourth true tea that has recently gained popularity and scientific acclaim. White tea first appeared in Asia and only became popular in the West in the last 200 years.

White tea is a real tea and the least processed, making it a delicate tea that packs a punch when it comes to health benefits. White tea benefits include preventing tooth decay, promoting healthy skin and hair, and increased energy and alertness. Drinking a cup a day can help prevent colds and eliminate free radicals, which can cause a range of ailments from acne to cancer.

What is white tea?

White tea comes from the camellia sinensis plant, just like black tea, green tea, and oolong tea. It is one of the five types of tea known as true teas. Before the white tea leaves open, the buds are harvested to make white tea. These buds are usually covered in tiny white hairs, which give the tea its name. White tea is mainly harvested in the Fujian province of China, but there are also producers in Sri Lanka, India, Nepal and Thailand.

oxidation

Real teas all come from the leaves of the same plant, so the difference between teas is based on two things: the terroir (the region where the plant is grown) and the production process.

One of the differences in the production process of any real tea is the amount of time the leaves are allowed to oxidize. Tea masters can roll, crush, roast, fire, and steam leaves to aid in the oxidation process.

As already mentioned, white tea is the least processed real tea and therefore does not undergo a long oxidation process. Unlike black tea’s long oxidation process that results in a dark, rich color, white teas simply wither and dry in the sun or a controlled environment to preserve the herb’s garden-fresh nature.

flavor profile

Because white tea undergoes minimal processing, it has a delicate flavor profile with a smooth finish and pale yellow color. It has a slightly sweet taste. When brewed properly, it doesn’t taste greasy or bitter. There are different varieties that have fruity, herbal, spicy and floral notes.

Types of White Tea

There are two main types of white tea: Silver Needle and White Peony. However, there are several other white teas, including Long Life Eyebrow and Tribute Eyebrow, as well as artisanal white teas such as Ceylon White, African White, and Darjeeling White. Silver Needle and White Peony are considered to be the highest when it comes to quality.

Silver Needle (Bai Hao Yinzhen)

The Silver Needle variety is the most delicate and finest white tea. Consisting only of silver colored buds of around 30mm in length, she offers a light sweet taste. The tea is only made from young leaves of the tea plant. Silver Needle White Tea has a golden sheen, floral aroma and woody body.

White Peony (Bai Mu Dan)

White peony is the second highest ranked white tea and has a blend of buds and leaves. Generally, White Peony is made from the top two leaves. White peony teas have a stronger flavor profile than the silver needle type. Complex flavors combine floral notes with a full-bodied feel and a slightly nutty finish. This white tea is also considered a budget buy compared to Silver Needle as it is cheaper while still offering a fresh, robust taste. White peony tea is lighter green and golden than its more expensive alternative.

Health Benefits of White Tea

1. Skin Health

Many people struggle with skin imperfections such as acne, blemishes and discoloration. While most of these skin conditions are not dangerous or life-threatening, they are still annoying and can affect self-confidence. White tea can help with an even complexion thanks to its antiseptic and antioxidant properties.

A study from Kinsington University in London showed that white tea can protect skin cells from damage caused by hydrogen peroxide and other factors. White tea, rich in antioxidants, also helps eliminate free radicals that can lead to signs of premature aging, including pigmentation and wrinkles. The anti-inflammatory properties of white tea antioxidants may also help reduce redness and inflammation caused by skin conditions like eczema or dandruff (1).

Since acne is often caused by pollution and the formation of free radicals, drinking a cup of white tea once or twice a day can cleanse the skin. Alternatively, white tea can be applied directly to the skin as a cleansing detergent. You can also place a white tea bag directly on problem areas to speed healing.

A 2005 study by Pastore Formulations showed that white tea may be beneficial for people suffering from skin conditions like rosacea and psoriasis. This may be due to the epigallocatechin gallate found in white tea, which helps create new cells in the epidermis (2).

White tea contains high levels of phenols, which can strengthen both collagen and elastin, giving skin a smoother, more youthful appearance. These two proteins are critical to creating strong skin and preventing wrinkles, and can be found in a variety of skin care products.

2. Cancer Prevention

Studies have shown the strong link between real teas and the potential to prevent or treat cancer. Although the studies are inconclusive, the health benefits of drinking white tea are largely attributed to the antioxidants and polyphenols in the tea. Antioxidants in white tea can help build RNA and prevent mutation of genetic cells that lead to cancer.

A 2010 study found that antioxidants in white tea were more effective than green tea at preventing cancer. The researchers used white tea extract to target lung cancer cells in the lab, and the results showed dose-dependent cell death. As studies are ongoing, these results show that white tea can help stop cancer cells from multiplying and even contribute to the death of mutated cells (3).

3. Weight Loss

For many people, losing weight goes beyond a New Year’s resolution; It’s a real struggle to shed pounds and live longer, healthier lives. Obesity is one of the main reasons for shorter life expectancy and losing weight is increasingly high on people’s list of priorities.

Drinking white tea can help you achieve your weight loss goals by helping your body absorb nutrients more efficiently and shed pounds more easily by speeding up your metabolism. A 2009 German study found that white tea may help burn stored body fat while preventing new fat cells from forming. Catechins in white tea can also speed up digestive processes and aid in weight loss (4).

4. Hair Health

Not only is white tea good for your skin, it can also help build healthy hair. The antioxidant called epigallocatechin gallate has been shown to promote hair growth and prevent premature hair loss. EGCG has also shown promise in treating scalp skin disorders caused by bacteria that are resistant to conventional treatments (5).

White tea also naturally protects against sun damage, which can help keep hair from drying out during the summer months. White tea can restore the hair’s natural shine and is best used topically as a shampoo when you want to take advantage of shine.

5. Improves calm, concentration and alertness

White tea has the highest concentration of L-theanine among real teas. L-Theanine is known to improve alertness and focus in the brain by inhibiting exciting stimuli that can lead to overactivity. By calming stimuli in the brain, white tea can help you relax while increasing focus (6).

This chemical compound has also shown positive health benefits when it comes to anxiety. L-Theanine promotes the production of the neurotransmitter GABA, which has a naturally calming effect. The best thing about drinking white tea is that you can reap the benefits of increased alertness without the side effects of drowsiness or impairment that come with prescription anxiety medications.

White tea also contains a small amount of caffeine, which can help kickstart your day or provide an afternoon pick-me-up. On average, white tea contains about 28 mg of caffeine in each 8-ounce cup. That’s far less than the average 98mg found in a cup of coffee and slightly less than the 35mg found in green tea. With lower caffeine levels, you can drink multiple cups of white tea per day without the ill effects that strong cups of coffee can have. You can drink three or four cups a day and not worry about jitters or insomnia.

6. Oral Health

White tea is high in flavonoids, tannins, and fluorides that help keep teeth healthy and strong. Fluoride is popularly known as a tooth decay preventative and is commonly found in toothpastes. Both tannins and flavonoids help prevent plaque build-up, which can cause tooth decay and cavities (7).

White tea also has antiviral and antibacterial properties that help keep teeth and gums healthy. To reap the dental health benefits of white tea, drink two to four cups a day and re-infuse tea bags to extract all of the nutrients and antioxidants.

7. Help treat diabetes

Diabetes is caused by genetic and lifestyle factors and is an increasing problem in the modern world. Fortunately, there are many ways to regulate and control diabetes, and white tea is one of them.

Catechins in white tea along with other antioxidants have been shown to help prevent or regulate type 2 diabetes. White tea effectively inhibits the activity of the enzyme amylase, which signals glucose absorption in the small intestine.

In people with type 2 diabetes, this enzyme breaks down starches into sugars and can cause blood sugar spikes. Drinking white tea can help regulate these spikes by blocking the production of amylase.

In a 2011 Chinese study, scientists found that regular consumption of white tea lowered blood sugar levels by 48 percent and increased insulin secretion. The study also showed that drinking white tea helped alleviate polydipsia, a strong thirst caused by diseases like diabetes ( 8Trusted Source ).

8. Reduces Inflammation

The catechins and polyphenols in white tea have anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve minor aches and pains. A Japanese animal study published in MSSE Journal showed that catechins found in white tea contributed to faster muscle recovery and less muscle damage ( 9Trusted Source ).

White tea also improves blood circulation and provides oxygen to the brain and organs. Because of this, white tea is effective in treating mild headaches and aches and pains from exercise.

9. Heart Health

Having a healthy heart means living a longer and more fulfilling life. Because everything from diet to smoking to environmental factors contributes to heart health, it’s important to take steps to prevent chronic disease. White tea helps protect healthy heart function and helps prevent diseases like blood clots, strokes, and heart attacks.

Because white tea is the least processed real tea, it also contains the most antioxidants. Catechins in white tea may help lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and reduce the risk of heart disease. Antioxidants in white tea have also been shown to lower cholesterol, specifically the bad LDL cholesterol (10).

How to brew white tea

Step 1: Prepare the leaves

For a tea made from buds: Use 2 teaspoons of tea for every 6 ounces of water

For a leaf tea: Use 2 tablespoons of tea for every 6 ounces of water

For a tea made from buds and leaves (like white peony): Use about 1 tablespoon of tea for every 6 ounces of water

Step 2: Boil the water

For white tea, boil water to 170 F.

As with most teas, using pure, filtered water results in better-tasting and more flavorful teas. You can use any type of water, from tap water to bottled or filtered water, but avoid using distilled water as it can taste stale.

Step 3: Steep

Depending on the type of tea and personal taste preferences, steep for 30 seconds to 5 minutes.

Buds take longer to soak than large leaves, and small leaves soak quickest. Taste the tea every 30 seconds to ensure the right taste, as steeping too much can lead to bitter flavors.

Drink white tea for health

White tea undergoes minimal processing methods to create a delicate flavor. It is one of the five types of tea known as true teas. The tea is mostly made from young leaves and unopened buds of the tea bush. Its use dates back to the Song Dynasty and Chinese white teas are still considered the gold standard today. The most popular varieties are Da Bai (big leaf), Silver Needle and White Peony.

Drinking a few cups of white tea daily can have a positive impact on your overall health. Along with the traditional health benefits of tea for your immune system, white tea can help prevent serious illnesses like cancer and heart attacks while keeping your hair, skin, and teeth healthy.

The best thing about white tea is that many varieties are easy to find. You can buy white tea at your local grocery store or buy it through an online tea shop. Some varieties are widely available as loose tea or in tea bags, while pure varieties like Silver Needle require a little more effort to acquire in the US.

Drink to your health and sip a soothing, golden cup of white tea while basking in the health benefits.

Sources:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3214789/

2. http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.696.8743&rep=rep1&type=pdf

3. https://nccih.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/092110.htm

4. https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/health/news/5254153/White-tea-may-help-combat-obesity-say-experts.html

5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17092697

6. http://www.lifeextension.com/Magazine/2016/3/Brain-Benefits-of-L-Theanine/Page-01

7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3491343/

8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22279681

9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23470311

10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11470725

Not many people are aware of the existence of white tea. Made from the same Camellia Sinensis plant as green, black, and oolong teas, this brew is extremely underrated. Black and green tea have been in the spotlight for decades, which is why white teas are still struggling to find global popularity. Deeply underestimated, white tea is very good for health and considered almost medicinal by the Chinese.

It is the most delicate type of tea because it is minimally processed. Made from the young buds of the Camellia Sinensis plant, which are quickly hand-picked, the tea is left to wither in the sun. The leaves are not allowed to oxidize, which means this brew contains high levels of antioxidants. There are many benefits of white tea when it comes to health.

More about white tea

It is hands down the freshest tea on the market as it is not rolled or fried. The buds and leaves are dried in a very controlled environment, giving the infusion a fresh flavor that transports you to the picturesque tea gardens with every sip. Aside from the health benefits of white tea, the taste of the infusion is very light on the palate and is ideal for those who aren’t a big fan of strong, malty, or astringent infusions.

Today, many countries produce white tea that was once only produced for royalty in China. Some of the famous white teas are Baihao Yinzhen, Bai Mudan, Monkey Picked White Tea and Darjeeling White Tea. Because of its delicate nature, white wine is difficult to store and transport, but there are some modern but expensive modes of transport. Because of this, white tea is a bit overpriced considering the amount of care that goes into making this brew.

The flavor profile

When it comes to flavors, there is only one word that can describe white tea and that is “delicate”. The aroma and flavor of white tea make it a truly blue delicacy. Tea connoisseurs from all over the world pay hundreds of dollars just to get their hands on this delicious variety of tea. The flavor profile of this brew is described as grassy, ​​fruity, floral, honeyed, peachy, melon, subtle, delicate, etc. Compared to other types of tea, it contains much less caffeine.

How do you make white tea?

White tea leaves placed in a kettle must be poured with boiling water. Let the kettle steep the brew for about 5 minutes and pour the brew into a cup. White tea is best drunk pure, without the addition of other flavors. The addition of milk, sugar, lemon or other spices will completely spoil the delicate flavor of this concoction, not to mention increase the calories.

If you are looking for a quality white tea but don’t know where to buy it then be sure to check out Teafloor. Teafloor is known for stocking up on rare, delicious brews.

Buy and store white tea

White tea can go stale very quickly, so it’s best to buy this brew in small quantities and consume it as soon as possible. This way you can enjoy the freshness of this tea. Always keep this concoction in a cool and dark place, away from heat, moisture, light and oxygen.

Also, never keep it in the fridge. Store in an opaque, airtight container to preserve its aroma and freshness. Also, make sure to keep it away from coffee, spices, and other tea varieties as these tend to leach out the flavor.

If you like drinking tea, one thought must come to your mind after your cup of tea – can I reuse these tea leaves? Seems too good to waste!

The short answer is YES, you can reuse tea leaves, especially loose tea!

Reuse in the context of tea is re-steep. Re-steeping tea leaves is a common practice in China. By adopting the gaiwan with gong fu approach to brewing tea (the one with gaiwan!), teas can be infused multiple times – 6 to 8 times or even more. This method plays a big part in infusing tea as it combines lots of tea leaves with little water, so the tea doesn’t lose its flavor easily. Therefore, it is believed that the more you can refill your tea without losing the flavor, the better your tea is!

Another reason tea refilling is common in China is because there are some teas that can taste better after the first steep, such as pu-erh and oolong tea. Some teas, like Tie Guan Yin Oolong tea, are tightly curled and one steep is not enough to unroll the tea leaves. Other teas, such as Da Hong Pao Oolong tea and Pu-erh tea, may have a strong smoky flavor due to the processing method, and some people find the second steep more pleasant because the smoky flavor is gone.

Overall, teas (especially loose leaf teas) have a strong flavor that doesn’t just go away after the first steep, so throwing it out right away can be a waste.

But remember – in general, you should only reuse the teas for one day, and drinking night teas isn’t good either.

Can tea bags be reused?

The short answer is no, you cannot reuse tea bags. Tea bags contain smaller tea particles made from crushed tea leaves, which means the flavor dissipates faster than loose leaf tea. However, if you like to lightly brew your tea bag, you may still get some flavor from your second steep. However, this is not guaranteed! If you want a tea that can be reused multiple times, consider switching to loose leaf tea.

Can you reuse black tea leaves?

Yes, you can only reuse black tea leaves about 3-5 times (5-10 times for the traditional gaiwan/gong fu approach). Because black tea is already highly oxidized, you won’t get a strong flavor if you reuse it more than three times. You can brew the first brew as usual, but you have to expect a longer brewing time for the second brew, as there may not be much aroma left.

Can you reuse green tea leaves?

Yes, you can reuse green tea leaves 2-4 times (5-10 times for the traditional gaiwan approach). Fun fact, Japanese green tea can withstand more brews. So if you are looking for a green tea that still tastes strong after 4 infusions, Japanese green tea is your answer!

Can You Reuse Oolong Tea Leaves?

Yes, you can reuse oolong tea leaves at least 5 times (5-10 times for the traditional gaiwan approach) from a good quality oolong tea. Oolong tea is very easy to reuse because the leaves are only fully unfolded after the first infusion, so more flavor and aroma come out from the second infusion. You no longer have to worry about the flavor disappearing with every infusion!

Can you reuse pu-erh tea leaves?

Yes, you can reuse pu-erh teas up to 6 times (even more for the gai wan approach)! Pu-erh tea is the tea that can be post-brewed the most, especially great raw pu-erh tea. In general, the older the raw pu-erh tea, the more nuanced each infusion. Multiple pots of tea can also be made from mature pu-erh tea, but the flavor may not be as nuanced as its raw counterpart.

Can you reuse white tea leaves?

Yes, you can reuse white teas about 2-3 times (5-10 times for the traditional gai wan approach). White tea is one of the least processed teas, which makes it good to reuse a few times. Although it doesn’t have a strong flavor to begin with, you can expect its smooth and delicate taste to stand up to multiple infusions.

Conclusion

The next time you brew your loose tea, remember that you can brew it more than once! So not only can you get the most out of your tea, but you can also save your money and the environment by reducing your waste.

Get your quality loose leaf tea now at BornTea to get the best flavor and aroma in every subsequent brew.

Busting some myths

Well, wait a minute. Shouldn’t white teas be like…super delicious, delicate and fragile and all?

I was told that for a long time too. And many of these myths actually keep us from fully understanding Silver Needle, so let’s clear up a few big things first before we dive deep into the details.

Myth #1: White tea has the least caffeine of all teas.

“Only 1% of the caffeine in a cup of coffee!” I was told when I first bought a Silver Needle.

In fact, white teas often contain more caffeine than other types of tea (more on that in a minute). Silver Needle in particular can contain some of the highest levels of caffeine per cup!

And that really makes sense when you think about it.

Why would the buds, which are basically supposed to be the young whippersnapper parts of the plant, be weak and low in energy? (Spoiler alert: They really aren’t. Just try drinking a Silver Needle late at night and see what happens.)

This leads us to another misunderstanding.

Myth #2: Silver Needle is a delicate tea that requires cooler water to brew.

So the idea here is that the young buds are so tender and fragile that boiling water would scorch them. For example, I was told to brew my first Silver Needle at 85°C (175°F) and I did that for a long, long time.

On the contrary. Naturally, tea buds are delicate but tough, and the protective fuzz on the tea buds helps to repel water to a certain extent – so we need to use hot water and a little force to extract the goodness inside.

So unless you have a broken (and probably substandard) Silver Needle, you no longer need that lukewarm weak water for white teas. OK?

We’ll talk more about brewing later. But now that we’ve dispelled those myths, we have a better chance of REALLY getting to know this tea.

And boy is it worth it. From what I’ve seen, the “tender” Silver Needle can come in a surprising array of flavors: some are light and floral with some vanilla ice cream vibes, while others are wilder, herbier, and downright zesty!

Myth #3: Silver Needle is always better than other white teas because it’s higher quality and/or more expensive.

While it’s true that Silver Needle is quite expensive in the tea market and commands attention, what exactly you get will depend on a few factors, which we’ll cover in the rest of this guide.

And while I’m by no means an expert on Silver Needle, I think this is more than enough to keep you confident and comfortable with your Bai Hao Yin Zhen.

So go ahead and explore!

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White tea is a popular beverage packed with flavor and health benefits. Unlike black and green tea, which impart powerful aromas, white tea is known for its light, delicate aroma and flavor. As such, many people wonder if it contains the same amount of caffeine as its counterparts. This article tells you how much caffeine is in white tea. Share on Pinterest

What is white tea? White tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant and is commonly defined as a type of green tea native to Fujian, a province on the southeast coast of China. It is harvested from young tea leaves or buds covered in tiny white hairs – hence the name “white” tea (1). The most popular types of white tea include Silver Needle (Bai Hao Yin Zhen) and White Peony (Bai Mudan), which are the least processed and contain mostly the tea buds and not the leaves (2). The main difference between white tea and other teas is that white tea undergoes minimal oxidation – also known as fermentation. This makes it very tender with a uniquely light aroma and flavor (1, 2). Summary White tea gets its name from the tiny white hairs found on young tea buds before harvest. Unlike other teas, it undergoes minimal processing, resulting in a light taste and smell.

Does white tea contain caffeine? White tea is a form of green tea and also contains caffeine. However, experts estimate that white tea contains 15% less caffeine than traditional green tea (1). White teas contain 6-55 mg of caffeine per cup (250 ml), although this depends on numerous factors including (1, 2, 3, 4): type/rating. Silver Needle (Bai Hao Yin Zhen) contains the least amount of caffeine as it is made only from tea buds and not leaves. The buds contain hydrophobic — or “water-averse” — hairs that can make caffeine extraction difficult.

Silver Needle (Bai Hao Yin Zhen) contains the least amount of caffeine as it is made only from tea buds and not leaves. The buds contain hydrophobic — or “water-averse” — hairs that can make caffeine extraction difficult. Brand. Depending on the processing and harvesting techniques used, there can be significant differences in caffeine content between white tea brands.

Depending on the processing and harvesting techniques used, there can be significant differences in caffeine content between white tea brands. Size. Loose leaf tea usually contains less caffeine than crushed tea leaves in tea bags.

Loose leaf tea usually contains less caffeine than crushed tea leaves in tea bags. Temperature. Steeping white tea above 90°C (194°F) results in significantly higher caffeine levels.

Steeping white tea above 90°C (194°F) results in significantly higher caffeine levels. Time. The longer tea is steeped, the more caffeine is extracted from the tea leaves or buds. Studies show that steeping tea for more than 7-10 minutes significantly increases its caffeine content. However, compared to other caffeinated beverages, white tea is still a much better option when trying to lower your caffeine intake (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10): Beverage Caffeine Content (per cup/250ml) White Tea 6-55 mg Green Tea 30-70 mg Black Tea 47-90 mg Coffee 96 mg Energy drink 164 mg per regular can (16 ounces/473 ml) Soda 34 mg per regular can (12 ounces/354 ml) Summary One cup (250 ml) white tea contains about 6-55 mg of caffeine. However, it largely depends on the type of tea buds and leaves, their size, brand, brewing temperature and steeping time.

Caffeine-Free Alternatives If you continue to drink regular white tea but want to reduce the caffeine content, make sure you only steep it below 90°C (194°F) for 1–5 minutes (4). Alternatively, you can opt for decaffeinated white tea. However, be sure to read the label to make sure it clearly says “caffeine-free” or “decaffeinated.” Even then, traces of caffeine may remain. To make sure there is no caffeine at all, try herbal teas. Unlike other teas, herbal teas are not true teas because they are not derived from the Camellia sinensis plant, but rather from dried fruits, flowers, spices, or herbs (11, 12). Finally, you can opt for decaffeinated sodas, juices, or flavored water. Summary If you’re looking to cut down on your caffeine intake, opt for decaffeinated white tea or other beverages. Also, try to steep your tea for less than 1-5 minutes at temperatures below 194°F (90°C).

brewing instructions

Water temperature: 175-190 degrees

Water quality: Best with spring water

Leaf Amount (per 6 fl oz water): 1 rounded tbl. (2.5 grams)

Brewing time: 1-3 minutes

Number of infusions: 3

For best results, we like to rinse the leaves first to release the aroma and soften the leaves. The water temperature should be around 80-90 degrees Celsius. We use between 2.5 and 3 grams of tea per 6 ounces of water, which is about 1 good tbsp, and steep for 1 to 3 minutes. Our Chinese Silver Needle can be brewed in a standard teapot or in your favorite covered mug or gaiwan. We recommend that you always preheat your vessel before steeping your tea for up to 1-3 minutes. Like all green and white teas, our Silver Needle can be steeped at least three times. Slightly increase the time and temperature for each subsequent infusion. Experimenting with your own temperatures and steeping times is recommended. Cooler temperatures and shorter times yield smoother, fruity elements, while hotter water and longer times produce more floral and full-bodied complexities. Always use the best-tasting water you can find, and adjust steeping times, leaf count, and water temperature to suit personal preference.

We highly recommend brewing your tea in a teapot or mug with a removable strainer so you can remove the leaves at the end of the steeping time. Whole leaf teas of this quality need space to unfold and expand in the water in order to work their “magic”. If you don’t have a removable strainer, you can brew the loose leaves right in the pot. At the end of steeping, pour all of the tea into a warm serving pitcher or pitcher.

: a tea where voluntary monetary donations are usually given for special fundraising or charity purposes

: a tea where voluntary monetary donations are usually given for special fundraising or charity purposes

: a tea where voluntary monetary donations are usually given for special fundraising or charity purposes

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