Green Tea
No one can deny the significant cultural and historical impact of Green Tea, which to some, is Tea in its truest form. Green Tea has presented itself as a bedrock of society in much of the Eastern world, and today is taking the West by storm as well. Green Tea is a type of Tea from the Camellia sinensis plant (Tea plant).
It differs from Black Tea, White Tea and Oolong Tea through its distinct methods of processing. After White Tea, Green Tea is the least-processed Tea type. Soon after harvesting, it is quickly pan-fired or, as the case with many Japanese Teas, steamed, which prevents too much oxidation occurring in the structure of the leaf. In preventing oxidation through either pan-firing or steaming, Green Tea maintains its freshness, grassiness and herbaceousness.
Following the initial pan-firing/steaming stage, Green Tea must undergo the rolling process, which involves the Tea leaves being broken up then rolled into a unique shape. Sometimes the leaves are twisted; sometimes the leaves are rolled; and sometimes the leaves are manipulated very little. It all depends on the type of Green Tea being made. The “drying process” is the final processing of the leaf, whereby the moisture content of the leaves is reduced from approximately 10-13% to 5%. At this point, the Tea is ready for shipping, distribution and then, finally, consumption.
This Type of Tea is, perhaps, the oldest Tea in existence, or at least according to legend. It is said that an ancient Chinese Emperor named Shennong discovered Tea in 2737 BCE by pure accident when he came to rest underneath an unknown Tree with a cup of boiling water by his side. The Emperor fell asleep in the midday sun, and when he awoke, he found that leaves from the tree above had fallen into his drink. An avid herbalist, Shennong decided to try the infusion - he loved it! Without knowing at the time, Shennong had just discovered Green Tea, or so the story goes.
Over 5,000 years later and Green Tea remains an immensely popular beverage. Nowadays, many choose it not just for its taste but also its proven health benefits. According to the latest scientific research, Green Tea contains an abundance of beneficial antioxidants, most notably Epigallocatechin-gallate (EGCG), capable of combating a multitude of ailments prevalent in today’s society. Studies suggest that the frequent consumption of Green Tea can improve cardiovascular health, boost the metabolism, enhance cognitive function, support the immune system and even reduce the risks of developing type-2 diabetes.
Whatever your reason is for drinking Green Tea, The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company have an extensive range of choice. There is bound to be a Green Tea that fits your lifestyle or personality, anything from the simple to the extravagant. We stock traditional Green Teas, Flavoured Green Teas, Organic Green Teas and Green Tea blends - start exploring!
