Green Tea originated in China then traveled to Asia, Japan and the Middle East with travelers and traders. This type is different from white in that it has been allowed to oxidize slightly during production (one step further than white tea).

Studies

This form of tea has become a very popular subject in the health and wellness arena. There have been many claims about its potential health benefits that are being reviewed extensively. Generally speaking, it's biggest claim to fame is as an antioxidant beverage. It’s thought that antioxidants help boost the immune system and fight age-related illnesses like heart disease. It may also prove beneficial for:

* weight loss
* decreasing the risk of cancer
* positively impact bone density
* improve memory
* support oral health
* provide important vitamins and minerals (include Vitamin C, selenium, and zinc)
* reducing bad cholesterol

While further studies continue, it appears that it is good for “what ails you” and a positive contributor to healthy living.

Types

There are many varieties, many of which come from the Fujian Province where weather is ideal for growing tea bushes. It gets harvested in spring and summer, then its heat cured in ovens. Here are just a few types:

Jade Dew: This comes from Japan and is grown in shady areas for a unique flavor.

Long Steamed is a stronger flavored , dark color green tea

Tamaryokucha: this tastes both fruity and nutty

Kamairicha: This gets pan-fried for a delicate taste

Dragonwell: vibrant, from West Lake region of China.

Ceylon also produces some varieties.

Brewing:

This type of tea is not quite as delicate and subtle as white, so you’ll only need about one teaspoon to five ounces of hot water. The higher the quality, the more you use and generally it’s traditional to steep the leaf for short periods, remove and repeat. No matter what do not allow the water to get above 190 degrees F. You need more heat and time for lower quality green teas.

Caffeine Amounts:

This type of tea may contain as much and possibly more caffeine than coffee so if you’re goal is reducing caffeine this won’t help much.

History:

Tea has been a part of the history of the Far East for thousands of years. We read about it in Eisai’s Book of Tea in the late 1100s. This tells the reader that it is good for the heart and has a variety of other healthful qualities.

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