White Tea

There are several types of tea that are so popular as a source of antioxidants among tea connoisseurs in the country, namely black tea, oolong tea and green tea. But actually there is one more type of tea that is known in the world as the 'king' of antioxidants. It's called white tea. What makes this tea different from other types?

White tea comes from the youngest tea leaves that are still rolled up at the top of the tea tree. These young tea leaves are usually covered with fine hairs which will turn silvery white after the leaves are dried. This white color is the origin of the name white tea. Because of its straight and sharp shape after going through the drying process, white tea is often also referred to as 'silver needle'. Based on historical records, white tea was first discovered in China during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). At that time white tea became a secret royal recipe that was believed to maintain health, make young and live long. Because this tea is special, it can only be consumed by the upper class.

One more thing that makes white tea more special than other types of tea is that it tastes fresher, softer and has a more fragrant aroma. This specialty comes from the difference in the age of the leaves used and the processing process. Black tea, oolong tea and green tea use tea leaves that grow two or three levels below the shoot. While white tea comes from really young tea leaves.