Contents[Hide]

Tea Buying Guide

Tea is the most popular beverage in the world--next to water.  And with such a strong title, we wanted to make sure we did it justice.

Varieties

Properly, tea refers to the leaves and leaf buds of just one plant, the Camellia sinensis.  Often, natural botanicals and flavourings  are added to enhance the taste; popular flowers include jasmine  and rose,  and flavourful herbs such as peppermint  and lemongrass  are very commonly found in tea blends.   However, there are also many herbal infusions  made without tea leaves, known as tisanes  (read more below).  All varieties are sold in either a loose leaf  form or in a tea bag  and there are a variety of decaffeinated options  out there as well.   

Green Tea 

  • Many people believe in the medical benefits of green tea. It has been claimed that green tea can increase metabolism, lower cholesterol, treat arthritis, and cause increased brain and mental function. This is due to the high content of antioxidants found in green tea. 
  • Green tea ranges from light and mild to rich and earthy in flavour. 

Varieties to check out:

White Tea 

  • White tea is the mildest variety of tea made from the Camellia plant. It is harvested very early in the spring, before the leaves have unrolled; because they are so young, the leaves retain a very strong concentration of antioxidants.
  • This is a relatively rare and more expensive tea, with a delicate flavour and light colour.

Varieties to check out:

Black Tea 

  • Black tea is tea that has been fully fermented, thus resulting in a bolder flavour.  It is most popular in western cultures because of its strong taste and caffeine content; black tea is the preferred breakfast pick-me-up for many people.
  • It is often served with lemon, honey, or milk and sugar, and comes from a variety of different countries.

Varieties to check out:

Oolong Tea 

  • Oolong tea is partially fermented, putting it in a category that falls in between black and green tea in terms of flavour and strength.  It often comes from regions of Taiwan and China and pairs perfectly with many Asian dishes.
  • This tea brews up a medium to amber colour and flavour, making it the best of all worlds. 

Varieties to check out:

About Tisanes

Often known as "herbal tea, " tisanes are made with a wide variety of botanical ingredients. Many of them have medicinal properties as well! 

  • Chamomile : Known for its calming properties, a cup of chamomile tea can sooth tired nerves at bed-time. 
  • Chrysanthemum : This tea has a strong floral aroma, yet a light flavour.  
  • Cinnamon : This spice can improve your circulation, help you recover from a cold, and ease the pain of menstrual cramps. 
  • Ginger : Ginger tea is often a bit spicy and sweetened with honey.  It also helps with indigestion!
  • Hibiscus : This tea brews into a bright red drink with a tart flavour.
  • Lavender : This herbal tea has been used for centuries to ease tension.
  • Medicinal Blends : Many teas are made with special herbs that target sore throats or headaches. 
  • Peppermint : Peppermint tea has a pleasant aroma and is wonderful for soothing the stomach. 
  • Rooibos /Red Tea : This brews into a refreshing, reddish-brown, caffeine-free drink that is loaded with antioxidants. 
  • Rose Hips : These are a great source of vitamin C and are also filled with antioxidants.  They are also thought to help clear up a bladder infection! 
  • Rosemary : Besides smelling wonderful, rosemary teas can stimulate the liver and relieve joint aches and pains.
  • St. John's Wort : This is a useful herb for relaxation; it is thought to up your spirits and lift your mood! 

Tea Accessories

Tea Pot 

Tea Kettle 

Electric Water Kettle 

Teacups 

Travel Mugs 

Tea Canister 

Tea Strainers 

Tea Infusers 

Tea Cosies 

Honey 

External Links

  • About.com:  Blogs and recipes involving all kinds of teas.
  • HolyMtn.com:  Read about teas, caffeine, and their interesting health benefits.
  • SpecialTea.com:  Learn more about your favourite teas. 
  • Wikipedia.org:  Read more about the different kinds of tisanes.