Green tea has been used for general enjoyment and health promotion in China for centuries. It’s an important component of traditional Chinese medicine, and many tea-lovers swear green tea can improve your health, lower your risk of cancer and prevent obesity. Can green tea really do everything its fans claim?Teas can be split into two general categories: Those made from Camellia sinensis and teas made from other plants. Green, black, white and oolong teas are made from the leaves of Camella sinensis. Other teas, like chamomile, peppermint and rooibos, come from different plants.So what makes green tea different from other Camellia sinensis teas? The unique flavor, aroma and health benefits of green tea are created during the post-harvest process. Once tea leaves are plucked from the plant, they begin to oxidize. Enzymes within the tea leaf interact with oxygen in the air and start breaking down certain chemicals within the tea leaf. Oxidation is a natural process with many plants — you’ve seen it before with a cut apple turning brown after exposure to air. The process can only be stopped by heating the tea leaves. Green tea leaves are heated almost immediately after picking so they’ll retain their natural green color and helpful enzymes.
The exact method used to heat the tea leaves depends on the region. Japanese teas are often steamed, while Chinese teas are pan-fried in a wok. The leaves can also be dried in the sun or in an oven. As long as the oxidation is stopped quickly, it doesn’t matter which method is used.If you’ve tried green tea before and haven’t been a fan, give it another go. With so many different ways to grow, harvest and treat tea, you can enjoy a wide variety of tastes. Most green teas have similar health effects, too, so choose based on taste, not manufacturer claims.
