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27 August 2019

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Green Tea or Black Tea? Here are the main differences between the two most drunk types of tea in the world

te-verde-o-te-nero-ecco-le-differenze
How many varieties of tea do we know? The most famous are black tea, green tea, and red tea, and then there's white tea, yellow tea, and many others. However, what you may not know is that all these teas, no matter their type, come from the same plant: Camellia Sinensis

Otherwise known as the "tea plant," the Camellia is not limited to just this. In fact, while the buds and leaves are used for tea production, an oil extracted from its more woody parts is still used today by tribes in Bangladesh as a powerful natural antiseptic. This speaks volumes about the various beneficial properties of tea, regardless of the mentioned type. 

Many Varieties, One Plant 

It is the processing that makes the difference in distinguishing the different families of tea. In this journey to discover one of the most drunk beverages of all time, we reveal the main curiosities and differences between the two most well-known types of tea in the world. To which of the two teams do you think you belong: green tea or black tea

Does Green Tea or Black Tea Contain More Caffeine? 

A common myth is that black tea contains a higher rate of caffeine compared to green tea. However, the reality is different: each tea – even of the same variety – has its specific content of caffeine. It is not possible to determine in advance, using the family of belonging as the only discriminator, the amount of caffeine contained. It depends on multiple factors, including production methods, aging, and the correct fermentation of the raw material. This is why it is always better, whether our favorite is green or black tea, to rely on trusted producers. To be safe, knowing the excellence of the products, I always trust Dersut – not only for coffee but also for tea and infusions. 

Here are 3 main differences between the two types of tea 

1. Green tea is originally from China and Japan, while black tea is from India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and Africa. 
2. The substantial difference between green and black tea lies in the fermentation process. The processing of black tea requires that once harvested, the leaves are laid out to dry and ferment; only once fully dried will they be ready to be packaged. Green tea, on the other hand, does not undergo the fermentation process as the natural oxidation of the leaves is stopped through steam or heat immediately after harvesting. 3. Green tea – nomen omen – has a green coloration, and the aroma, as well as the taste, brings to mind that of grass or wet hay. Black tea, besides the dark color, has a stronger and more pungent smell and taste, marked. 

So, is Green Tea or Black Tea "Better"?

The benefits provided by the consumption of green tea 

In Japan, when you say "tea," it means, by definition, "green tea." In this part of the East, it is seen indeed as the principal beverage, a panacea for all ills. Rightly so, in fact. It is a very powerful antibacterial, stimulates the elimination of fluids, and promotes the purification of the body. But not only that, to delve deeper into the subject, we refer you to our dedicated article, where we have extensively discussed all its properties and characteristics! 

The properties of black tea 

Black tea, the most widespread and known among the different types of tea, is also renowned for its richness in antioxidants, including flavonoids. These substances help the body prevent cellular aging, counteract the action of free radicals, and maintain a healthy cardio-circulatory system. 
In this regard, a recent study conducted in Sweden has shown that constant consumption of black tea reduces the risk of stroke. In particular, researchers have emphasized that drinking black tea helps reduce the risk of blood clot formation in the brain by 21%. 
Black tea is also used as a natural remedy for minor common ailments. For example, paired with lemon, it proves to be a remedy as an astringent in case of diarrhea. Moreover, the stimulating and toning effects of black tea also involve our cognitive functions, increasing concentration.


Were you already aware of these curiosities about black and green tea? Do you have others to suggest?