Tea is often thought of as a beverage for people who are looking for a healthy alternative to coffee or soda. But what if you aren't already the tea drinking type? How do you know which type or flavor of tea is right for you?
There are many different types of tea, and, honestly, the best way to figure out which tea taste you might like best is simply to experiment. But you may not even know your options for experimenting with or why you would even WANT to.,
That being said, perhaps a little Tea 101 is in order to kick it off...
Why Tea Is Even Worth Your Time
Tea is often lauded for its MANY various health benefits, and with good reason. Numerous studies have shown that tea can help improve heart health, reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, and oh so much more.
Tea is also a good source of antioxidants. These nutrients scavenge harmful molecules called free radicals, which can damage cells, leading to inflammation. Free radicals have been linked to a variety of chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Health Benefits Of Tea
Different types of tea offer different health benefits, so it’s important to do your research and choose the most appropriate tea for you if better health is your main objective here. You can find a variety of articles on specific tea types (spearmint tea, peppermint tea, and ginger tea to name a few) by visiting WholisticHealthJunkie.
Regardless of why you're here stepping into this new world of tea, let's be honest- enjoying what you're drinking is still a worthwhile consideration.
And, lucky for you, one of the beautiful things about this word is that there are SO many types I can almost assure you there's something out there you're going to like.
Tea Types
That being said, let's start figuring out a safe place for you to start experimenting with a quick overview of some of the most popular tea types.
Black Tea
Black tea is a type of tea that is fully oxidized, which gives it its signature dark color. It is one of the most popular types of tea in the world and can be found in many different varieties, such as Earl Grey and English Breakfast.
If you're used to drinking coffee and enjoy the full-bodied experience of it as much a I do, black tea is a good place to start. It too has a bold, robust flavor whos sometimes bitter taste can be tempered with whatever milk (almond, coconut, oat, etc.) and sweetener you're into.
It also contains the highest level of caffeine, so it’s perfect if you need an energy boost.
Green Tea
Green tea is a type of tea that is made from the Camellia sinensis leaves and buds that have not undergone the same withering and oxidation process used to make oolong and black tea.
Green tea originated in China, but its production has spread to many countries in Asia and is enjoyed all over the world for its many health benefits and super rich antioxidant content.
If you're used to drinking sweeter beverages like soda and juice, green tea might be a good choice because it has a mild flavor and goes lovely with honey and other sweeteners.
While some describe green tea as having a light, grassy flavor, many people thoroughly enjoy it, as its lighter, more delicate flavor makes it a more refreshing option. Adding lemon and other spices can easily enhance this tea's tastiness as well.
Bonus! It contains lower levels of caffeine than its oxidized counterparts- black tea, oolong, and pu-erh- making it a good choice if you’re looking for a calming drink.
White tea
White tea is the least processed of all the teas, which accounts not only for it having a higher antioxidant concentration than most teas but also for its extra light and delicate flavor... Yes, even more antioxidant rich and an even more delicate tea taste than green tea!
White tea is made from the young leaves and buds of the Camellia sinensis plant, which are dried and then usually rolled or twisted. The young leaves and buds are covered with fine white hairs, hence the name “white” tea.
White tea is very low in caffeine, making it a good choice for those who are sensitive to caffeine or looking for a more gentle option.
Oolong tea
If you’re looking for a tea that has a little more flavor but isn’t quite as strong as traditional black tea, oolong tea is a great option. Oolong tea is semi-oxidized, meaning it falls somewhere in between black and green tea on the oxidation spectrum. This results in a flavor that is subtly sweet with floral notes and a slightly woodsy finish.
Additionally, oolong teas are known for their health benefits, which include aiding in weight loss, reducing stress levels, and improving heart health. So if you’re looking for a delicious and healthy tea to add to your repertoire, oolong could be the one for you!
Herbal Tea
Herbal teas are any type of infusion made from herbs, spices, and fruits – not from Camellia sinensis leaves. Herbal tea tastes naturally sweet on its own in many instances, so if you're looking for an alternative to sugary drinks like soda, an herbal loose- leaf tea would be a great choice.
When brewed properly, herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free, making them a great choice for those looking to avoid caffeine or for nighttime sipping. Chamomile, lavender, and mint are all popular herbs that make delicious teas on their own or in combination with other ingredients.
Side Note On Herbal Tea:
Herbal teas/tisanes may be the easiest way to ease you into your tea journey, as the flavor combinations are truly endless. But, just like with regular tea, herbal teas can vary greatly in taste and strength, so it’s important to experiment until you find a blend you love.
Chai Tea
Chai tea is a type of spiced black tea that originated in India. Chai tea contains a mixture of spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and ginger. If you're looking for a warm and comforting beverage, chai tea is a great choice. It kinda tastes like Christmas in a cup in my humble opinion! ;)
Matcha Tea
Coffee Drinkers! This one is ESPECIALLY for us! According the blog, Breakaway Matcha, matcha green tea is far superior to our beloved for a number of reasons!
Why Matcha Green Tea Is Better Than Coffee
- Matcha provides a more gradual, longer-lasting caffeine high that makes one feel alert and focused vs anxious and jittery
- Matcha is LOADED with antioxidants which are vital to our health!
- Matcha is an ally in maintaining good oral hygiene with its antibacterial properties.
- Matcha does wonders for our skin, unlike coffee which dehydrates us and stresses the nervous system.
But all of THAT amazinginess aside, Matcha tea is a type of green tea that originated from Japan. Matcha powder is made from pulverized green tea leaves and has a bright green color.
It can be added to hot water or whichever variety of warm "milk" you prefer and can even be used as an ingredient in smoothies or baking recipes. What's not to love, right!?
Pu-Erh Tea
Pu-erh tea is a type of fermented black tea that originated from China. Pu-erh has a bold tea flavor and can be found in both loose leaf and compressed cake form. If you're looking for a unique tea experience with a bold flavor, pu-erh tea is a great choice. Especially if you're a coffee drinker!
So What Is THE Best Tea For Non-Tea Drinkers!?
I know... after all of that it would be so much easier if I could give you ONE tea that I KNOW is the best tea for y'all but, as most long-time tea drinkers would tell you: it just depends on YOU! It really just comes down to your taste buds and what flavors you prefer. But hopefully this post has given you a starting point and some ideas of which tea you THINK you may want to try first!
The Picking Process
Amazon reviews are a great way to get an idea of what people are saying about a product before you buy it. But trust me, I know it can be a lot of information to sift through, especially when you don't even know where to start.
But don't worry, that's where I came in and saved the day (AKA potentially HOURS of your time). After reading TONS of social proof tidbits, along with my own personal experiences with some of these teas, I've compiled a list of the best teas for those of y'all who are new to the world of tea. So sit back, relax, cuz I've already done all the work. You can thank me later after I've made a (satisfied) tea drinker outta you! ;)
The Goods
Best Tea For Non-Tea Drinkers
Full Disclosure: WholisticHealthJunkie.com is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate programs, meaning that any links you click below may result in commissions at no extra cost to you. And now that THAT'S out of the way...Happy Scrolling! ;)
Black Tea
US Wellness Naturals, English Breakfast Tea, CRISP, RICH & AROMATIC well-rounded loose leaf tea, 110+ cups, 8oz Organic Ceylon SINGLE ESTATE tea
Officially "Hooked"
"Lovely Large Leaves, Balanced Flavor: I drink loose leaf English Breakfast tea every morning, after coffee no longer agrees with my stomach. I love the balanced flavor and big full leaves that fill my teapot with this brand of tea. Other brands have much smaller leaves. This tea doesn't not get bitter, even after a long steep, and has a lovely scent and balanced taste. The gorgeous amber color in my cup is an extra delight for the eyes. Thanks for producing such a lovely tea!!" -Amazon Reviewer
Green Tea
VAHDAM, Organic Green Tea Bags from Himalayas (100 Pyramid Tea Bags) | 100% Pure Tea, Detox Tea, Rich in Antioxidants
Officially "Hooked"
"Incredibly Flavorful Tea: I continue to be amazed at how this tea impresses me with its quality and flavor. the myriad of different floral and citrus scents surprise your nose each time a new bag is covered in boiling water. I have given bags to my friends and they love it also, all ordering immediately. Both the Chamomille and Lemon Ginger are many levels above the standard bagged teas you get in the supermarket. I also have the Green and Oolong for the mornings and afternoon tea and love them too. keep doing the great work of providing such excellent teas." -Amazon Reviewer
White Tea
VAHDAM, Imperial White Tea Leaves from Himalayas (25 Cups) - World's Healthiest Tea Type - POWERFUL ANTI-OXIDANTS
Officially "Hooked"
"Impressed W/ This Company & The Flavor & Quality Of Their Tea: I’m new to the tea world so definitely not an expert but I was impressed with the quality of Vahdam’s Imperial White. The appearance of the leaves showed them to be uniform, clean and a rich, consistent color. I own a couple of loose teas from other sources that don’t look as nice and one of them looked like something that was shoveled off of a warehouse floor with dust, huge sticks and woody pieces." -Amazon Reviewer
Oolong Tea
Organic Oolong K-Cup Pods, 24 Pods by FGO, Keurig Compatible, Naturally Occurring Caffeine, Premium Oolong Tea is USDA Organic, Non-GMO, & Recyclable
Officially "Hooked"
"Love My Oolong Tea: Organic oolong tea in a K-cup. What could be better? Mmmmm. I actually get a couple of cups of tea out of one K-cup. It brews strong. 💕" -Amazon Reviewer
Final Thoughts
There are many different types of tea available, so it's important to find one that suits your taste preferences. Black teas are Bold with astringent notes while green teas can be more grassy with vegetal notes depending on the region where it's from. Herbal teas are naturally sweet without added sugar, while matcha teas have more of an umami richness due to the powder form. If you're unsure about which type or flavor of tea to try, I recommend starting with a variety pack so you can sample several different types before settling on your favorite. Thanks for reading!
