Green tea finds its origins in China with the earliest known occurrence of consumption being during the Han Dynasty in the Second Century BC. The exact origin of Green Tea is surrounded by myth rather than fact, due in large part to the time period in which it was discovered. It was originally used as medicine and eventually spread to surrounding areas.
Initially, green tea was pressed into cakes and then ground into a fine powder, which was whisked. This method was later adopted in Japan and became Matcha. Later on, tea evolved into the leaf-brewed form we are familiar with today.
Green tea was the first tea exported from China to the US and Great Britain. Due to politics (such as the Boston Tea Party) and the long sea voyages, black tea became favored by the Western world.
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What is Green Tea?
Green tea is a leaf which typically derives from the Camellia Sinensis, a species of plant that originates in China. It is a derivative of the umbrella species Camellia Sinensis which is the basis for both green and black tea. The Camellia Sinensis strain distinguishes itself from other varieties of Camellia Sinensis are their smaller leaves. Green teas maintain their colors by a process of pan firing or steaming and drying. This process allows the tea leaf to maintain its natural green color and its namesake. The maintenance of the green color is a byproduct of heating and drying process which prevents oxidization.
Despite some common misconceptions most green teas are caffeinated. A cup of green tea has far less caffeine than a cup of coffee and has similar amounts of caffeine to most black teas. Green tea also contains the amino acid L-theanine which works in partnership with caffeine in order to stimulate brain activity. When these two compounds work together they stimulate the human brain in a way which is similar to coffee but without the traditional jitters associated with over consumption of caffeine.
Green tea also has a wide range of tastes which range based on a variety of factors including, the leaf size, the location where it was cultivated, and how it was heated. Specifically, one large distinction between the tastes in different green teas is Chinese and Japanese based heating. The heating method used for green teas in China is pan frying the leaves. This methodology creates a grassy, earthy flavor profile which can be found in teas such as Dragonwell. By contrast, Japanese production of green tea involves steaming of the tea leaves in order to heat them. The steaming process creates a sweet, vegetable like taste which is highlighted in a variety of green teas including Sencha.
Varieties
Because of its age, green tea has evolved into many different styles. The way the leaves are processed affects their taste and appearance.
One large distinction between the tastes in different green teas is Chinese and Japanese based heating. The heating method used for green teas in China is pan frying the leaves. By contrast, Japanese production of green tea involves steaming of the tea leaves in order to heat them.
Processing Green Tea
As discussed in Tea 102: Tea Processing, green tea is not allowed to oxidize and retains its natural green color. After picking, the leaves are withered to make them more malleable. Then, heat is applied to stop oxidation: pan-fried in a large wok for Chinese teas or steamed for Japanese teas.
Taste
The pan frying method used to heat tea leaves in China imparts a vegetal, or grassy taste to the tea. This flavor can be found in teas such as Dragonwell (aka Long Jing) and Gyokuro.
The steaming process used more in Japan creates a sweet, vegetable like taste which is highlighted in a variety of green teas including Sencha.
It is important to brew the tea properly; otherwise, the resulting brew can become extremely bitter.
Caffeine in Green Tea
Despite some common misconceptions most green teas are caffeinated. A cup of green tea has far less caffeine than a cup of coffee and has similar amounts of caffeine to most black teas. Green tea also contains the amino acid L-theanine which works in partnership with caffeine in order to stimulate brain activity. When these two compounds work together they stimulate the human brain in a way which is similar to coffee but without the traditional jitters associated with over consumption of caffeine.
Brewing Green Tea
Almost all green tea is brewed at lower water temperatures compared to black tea. This can vary from 160 degrees to 195 degrees Fahrenheit. Some teas are more sensitive to temperature, so it's important to read the directions. Steeping time is also shorter, typically 1-3 minutes. The recommended leaf volume is generally 1 teaspoon per 8 oz cup, but this can vary from tea to tea.
There are additional ways to brew green tea, which we'll discuss in advanced lessons. Green tea also pairs well with certain meals, especially Asian cuisine.
Green Tea Health Benefits
Antioxidant Properties
Green tea is packed with antioxidants called catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). These antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and potential cell damage.
Heart Health
Regular consumption of green tea has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease. The catechins in green tea may help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, improve blood vessel function, and reduce blood pressure, thus supporting cardiovascular health.
Weight Management
Green tea is often associated with weight management and metabolism. It has been shown to increase fat oxidation and boost metabolic rate, potentially aiding in weight loss and weight maintenance when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.
Brain Health
The combination of caffeine and the amino acid L-theanine found in green tea can have positive effects on brain function. It may enhance focus, attention, and cognitive performance while promoting a calm and relaxed state of mind. It was often used by monks during long meditation sessions.
Diabetes Management
Some studies suggest that green tea consumption may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, potentially reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Oral Health
The antimicrobial properties of green tea can help inhibit the growth of bacteria and viruses in the mouth, contributing to improved oral health. It may help reduce the risk of dental caries, gum disease, and bad breath.
Reduced Risk of Certain Cancers
The high concentration of antioxidants in green tea, particularly EGCG, has been associated with a lower risk of certain types of cancer, including breast, prostate, colorectal, and lung cancers.
Green Tea and You:
Green tea ought to be the beverage of choice for almost anyone! Green tea is the perfect tea for people looking to enjoy a relaxing tea with a broad flavor pallet. This style of tea is great for individuals looking to add more antioxidants to their diet. Drinking green tea is a lifestyle choice that can simultaneously add healthy value to your diet while limiting your consumption of sugary drinks. In the end green tea is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants to enjoy a delicious beverage, both hot and cold.