HOW TO MAKE THE BEST TEA

 

It is estimated that tea dates back more than 5,000 years to ancient China. The blend of legend and fact in its history has as much flavor as the drink itself. One of the most lasting legends is set in the time of Chinese ruler Shen Nung. He was known as a shrewd scientist, a patron of the arts and cautious man who always boiled his water prior to drinking, simply as a matter of hygiene. He was preparing his water as usual one day, when a few leaves fell from a nearby bush, into his pot of steaming water. He drank the water nonetheless and found it to be a refreshing and medicinal brew, which he continued to drink from that day forward. Today tea is still a popular drink and continues to be used or both its flavor and health benefits.

Types of Tea

White Tea

This is purest of all the teas because it is the least processed. Its caffeine content is very low and it has a light flavor. White tea contains antioxidants that reduce cholesterol, decrease blood pressure and improve circulation.

Green Tea

This comes in several varieties from China and Japan. It has recently become popular in the West because of its health properties. Green tea contains enzymes, amino acids and antioxidants making it beneficial for the blood, heart, digestive system and metabolism.

Oolong Tea

This traditional Chinese tea has a strong flavor and sweet fragrance. It is dried under the sun and has numerous health properties including the ability to reduce inflammation and improve heart function.

Black Tea

This is the most common type of tea in the West. It contains around 20 percent of the amount of caffeine in a cup of coffee. Black tea can help lower cholesterol, improve cardiovascular function and improve circulation.

Earl Grey Tea

This tea has an unusual orange flavor procured by adding the oil from the bergamot plant. It can help prevent diabetes and depression and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.