White Tea is considered healthiest of all teas. This is primarily because it is made from the baby plant only in a specific time in the spring and undergoes virtually no processing. White tea consists of highly nutritious tip of the plant, which also makes it the tea with the least amount of caffeine.

Processing

As mentioned earlier, white tea goes through virtually no processing. The tea leaves are immediately fired after withering them for a short period of time. The processing of white tea does not involve any form of rolling, breaking or bruising. The dried buds have tiny white hairs, which give them a silver-like appearance. When only the buds are processed for white tea, it is commonly known as silver tips or silver needle in the tea industry.

Flavor Profile

Since white tea is the least processed of all teas, the leaves tend to retain their natural appearance and characteristics. The color of white tea is generally pale light gold. They retain unique floral, jasmine aromas with taste notes of mildly sweet honey. White tea is absolutely mellow to taste yet has the highest health benefits, even more than green tea.

Brewing the Finest Cup

White is generally brewed at very low temperature to retain its mild flavors and aromas. To brew the finest cup of white tea, use about two grams (the amount of a single tea bag) of tea per 100 ml of water of temperature 79°C to 95°C (203°F). In general, use not quite boiling water or let the water cool down for about 45 to 60 seconds after boiling. Steep for about 4 to 6 minutes to enjoy the subtle flavors of white tea.

Health Benefits

• High amounts of anti-oxidants and theanine (a rare amino-acid found in high quality teas) are proven to promote good health, prevent damage cells and fight aging signs.
• Theanine present in white tea is believed to promote physical and mental relaxation and improve concentration.
• White tea is also considered to reduce anxiety and boost the immune system.
• White tea contains the least amount of caffeine and has stress-relieving and mood-uplifting abilities.