The benefits of white tea

White tea has quite a few health benefits. In this blog, you can read about what white tea is, where it is grown, what health benefits it has, and how best to brew a cup of white tea.

What is White Tea?

White tea, a gem among teas, comes from the young leaves of the

Camellia Sinensis plant. It is the most delicate and minimally processed tea variety, with a subtle flavor that leans towards floral and sweet. Think of a gentle breeze on a spring morning – that is white tea in a nutshell.

White tea is well-named. If you look closely, you can see white tea hairs on the tea leaves.

Growing white tea

The art of growing white tea is a very specific process. The tea leaves are carefully plucked before they fully unfurl, usually in early spring. This ensures that the leaves retain their natural flavors and antioxidants, making every sip an energy boost.

Why is white tea so healthy?

White tea is known for its abundance of antioxidants, such as catechins and polyphenols. These powerful substances have anti-inflammatory properties and help fight free radicals in our body. A true boost for your immune system and skin health!

Caffeine at a Zen level

For those of us who want to enjoy a cup of tea without the jitters of coffee, white tea is the perfect choice. Although it contains caffeine, the level is much lower than in black or green tea. A gentle energy boost without the caffeine rush – that sounds like a Zen moment in a mug. Moreover, tea also contains the amino acid L-theanine. This amino acid acts on the alpha waves in the brain and induces calm. Tea, and pure white tea in particular, is therefore very good for focused work. After all, you want to remain awake and focused, but you also want to experience tranquility.

How do you make the perfect cup of white tea?

1. Water temperature: Heat water to just below the boiling point, to about 80-85°C. Water that is too hot can affect the subtle flavors of white tea.

2. Water: the type of water for brewing a cup of tea is very important. If the water contains too many minerals such as Calcium (Ca+), it will combine with the caffeine in the tea, which will cause a dull and bitter taste. You want to avoid this at all costs. So, use water that is low in Ca+ such as Spa Blue or filtered water (a water softener or Brita can be used).

3. Let it Steep: Let the tea leaves reveal their magic by steeping them for 3-5 minutes. Taste and discover your perfect infusion time.

4. Enjoy with All Your Senses: Take the time to smell the aroma and taste the refined flavors. White tea is not just a drink; it is an experience.

White tea, in a nutshell

White tea, with its pure character and health benefits, invites us to slow down and enjoy the small pleasures of life. So, bring out those beautiful teacups, let go of the day's stress, and let the calming notes of white tea embrace your senses.

White tea from ZijTak

Pai mu than: this is a pure white tea.

Berry White: white tea with berries

Mont Blanc: white tea with orange and almond

Learn more about tea?

Would you like to learn more about tea? Then be sure to follow or organize a tea workshop from ZijTak. This can be done at our tea studio in Kortrijk or at your own location!

Until the next sip!