What is tea?
All teas, including green, black and oolong, are from one evergreen shrub Camellia sinensis. Herbal teas are in fact not true teas at all, but rather infusions of various herbs. The common usage of the term "tea" for herbals probably arose due to the fact that infusions are also steeped in boiling water.
When was tea first used as a beverage?
Nearly 4,000 years ago -- a Chinese Emperor 'discovered' this wonderful beverage in the year 2737 BC.
What's the 'shelf life' for tea?
While tea doesn't really spoil like fresh vegetables might, it is better when it's fresher. It's best to brew tea within two years. After that, the flavor can fade.
How are green and black teas different?
The difference between green, black and oolong teas is in the manufacturing process. Black teas are fermented, oolong teas are semi-fermented and green teas are not fermented at all.
How much caffeine is in green tea?
Caffeine content of a cup of tea varies based upon total time steeped, the quality of the tea and even from crop year to crop year. Generally speaking, the following numbers represent averages to demonstrate the relationship between various teas and coffee per 8 oz. serving.
| Black Tea | 35-150 mg |
| Green Tea | 11-31 mg |
| Decaffeinated Green Tea | 9-15 mg |
| Coffee | 185 mg+ |
Does decaffeination affect the polyphenols in green tea?
Long Life uses a natural water process to decaffeinate our tea. Absolutely no chemicals, including CO2, are used on our tea. This protective process is very gentle and does not significantly affect the amount of polyphenols in the tea.
Is the water I use important when making tea?
Yes. We suggest filtered or distilled water. If you use tap water, let it run so it's cold, fresh, and aerated. Then, bring the water to a full boil before steeping for 3-5 minutes.
What are some long-term health benefits in tea?
Studies show tea can help keep your arteries clear, thanks to antioxidants called catechins. Other studies suggest tea can inhibit cancer growth, due to a compound called TF-2. Still other studies are showing that tea can help prevent cavities, slow cataracts, block the loss of brain cells.
Are there some short-term health benefits, too?
Research suggests tea can deactivate some viruses, boost immunity, and neutralize germs.
What about fitness benefits?
Besides the fact that tea is low in calories, antioxidants in teas help the body burn calories faster.