The debate on different types of tea is endless, as everyone prefers to have their own tea, be it the green tea, black, tea, white tea, or the milk tea. Tea is one such beverage that is popular all over the world. In some places, herbal teas are also popular. It is the most consumed beverage, not just in India, but in most of the places. We are going to talk about green tea and white tea here. Both green tea and white tea are beneficial, but saying or deciding that which of the two is more beneficial is a bit difficult. Tea comes in different flavors, and you will be surprised to know that green tea and white tea are the teas that come from the same plant but they still taste different. They are made from the leaves and buds of the Camellia Sinensis Plant. Now, let’s know the difference between the two.
Green Tea – We have already mentioned above that from which plant the green tea comes. You should also know that green tea is made using the tea leaves of the Camellia Sinensis Plant. The origin of green tea is in China, but now it is being popular all over the world. Depending on the variety of Camellia Sinensis, its growing condition, and the temperature, the green tea also varies.
White Tea – White tea is also obtained from the same plant. It is said to be a delicate and different variety of tea because it is being processed minimally. They are being made from the buds and tea leaves which are quite young and are covered with fine white hair only. They are being handpicked, and are then dried quickly. The tea leaves which are kept for white tea are not oxidized.
Differences:
We are sharing with you the differences between the green tea and white tea based on different factors.
Processing of the tea – The processing of green tea is different than the processing of white tea. Green tea is processed more in comparison to the white tea, and they are being oxidized also. However, white tea is not oxidized and is processed less as we have already mentioned above. You should also know that green tea is partially fermented. Whereas the white tea is, first of all, steamed and then it is being dried.
Tea leaves – The tea leaves which are chosen for the green tea are quite mature. And that is why they are greenish-yellow in color. Whereas for the white tea, young tea leaves and buds are picked. Those tea leaves and buds which have white hair present on them are being used for preparing white tea. Because of picking young buds and tea leaves and minimal processing, white tea, get the white color, and not any other color.
Presence of Catechins – Green tea has fewer catechins present in them in comparison to the white tea. And it is because white tea is not oxidized. Catechins are the kind of oxidants that are present in the tea. These oxidants are quite beneficial for our bodies. So, looking at the presence of the catechins, we can say that white tea is healthier than green tea.
Taste of the tea – Many of you must be thinking that both these teas must be having the same taste as they are from the same tea. But you should know that just like their color, they do differ in the taste as well. That is why green tea is said to be bitter and stronger in taste. Whereas, white tea is said to be a bit sweet and mild in taste.
Presence of Caffeine – Green tea is said to have more caffeine content present in it, in comparison to the white tea. Like in 1 cup of green tea, you will find around 1 to 30 mg caffeine content. Whereas in 1 cup of white tea, you will find around 6 to 20 mg caffeine content.
Antioxidants – We have already mentioned above that green tea has a smaller number of antioxidants (catechins) in comparison to the white tea. And that is why white tea, is said to be more beneficial for preventing cancer in comparison to the green tea.
Weight Loss – Considering the weight loss, so green tea is said to be more beneficial than white tea for weight loss. As the caffeine content in green tea is more and that is why it has more effect on weight loss.
Now, as you can see the difference between the green tea and white tea, so you can now check yourself that which of the two is better for you. Somewhere it is also the taste preference or individual choice which makes one decide whether they would like to go for the green tea or the white tea.