Green Tea

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Green Tea 101
What Is Green Tea and What Are the Different Types?

Green tea is made from the leaves of Camellia sinensis, which are heated soon after harvesting to halt or limit oxidation and then dried. Chinese green teas are traditionally classified by their primary heat-fixing method into four main styles: pan-fired, baked, steamed, and sun-dried. Representative examples include West Lake Longjing, Huangshan Maofeng, Enshi Yulu, and Yunnan Sheng Pu-erh, respectively.
Does green tea have less caffeine than coffee and black tea?

Generally, a cup of brewed green tea contains less caffeine than coffee or black tea, although the exact amount depends on how each beverage is prepared. Caffeine levels can vary depending on the cultivar, harvest material, amount of tea used, water temperature, and steeping time. Using less tea, cooler water, and a shorter steep generally results in less caffeine being extracted into the cup.

If you want to reduce your caffeine intake, you can discard the first infusion. Caffeine dissolves readily in water, so the first infusion can contain a substantial amount of the tea’s caffeine. Keep in mind, however, that this also removes some flavor and aroma compounds.
What are the benefits of green tea?

Each type of tea has its own unique characteristics and potential health benefits. Green tea is minimally oxidized, which helps preserve its natural catechins. Catechins are powerful antioxidants that can help protect cells from oxidative stress and neutralize free radicals. Free radicals are natural byproducts in our bodies, but too many can cause oxidative stress, which is associated with aging and may contribute to the development of certain serious diseases. Catechins may also bind with certain heavy metals and other compounds, helping reduce their harmful effects.
How to Brew Green Tea?

The key to brewing good green tea is to use the right water temperature and not steep the tea for too long. Green tea is usually made from young and tender leaves, so it is best to avoid very hot water. A temperature of around 85°C (185°F) is a good starting point. Water that is too hot or steeping for too long can make green tea taste bitter and astringent.

A glass cup or a gaiwan is a great choice. You can see the tea leaves open and watch the color of the tea, and these teaware do not absorb the tea’s aroma.

Different types of green tea can be brewed in different ways:
Top Brewing: Add water first, then add the tea leaves. This method works well for teas such as Biluochun, which has small, tender leaves and fine white hairs. The leaves slowly sink into the water, making a beautiful view and a fresh, sweet taste.
Middle Brewing: Add about one-third of the water first, then add the tea leaves. Let the leaves soak for a short time, then fill the cup with water. This method works well for most green teas.
Bottom Brewing: Add the tea leaves first, then pour in the water. This method is suitable for teas such as West Lake Longjing, with its flat and tender leaves.
Where to buy good Chinese green tea?

There are many ways to buy green tea today. You can find it at grocery stores, specialty tea shops, and online. But if you are interested in authentic Chinese green tea, take a look at our collection above. We offer a variety of green teas from different tea-growing regions, with different flavors, styles, and traditions to explore.