subject: The History Of White Tea [print this page] Of the different variations of tea, the white tea is the most delicate and is being referred to in ancient times as the Emperors drink. Discovered in China during the Song Dynasty, the youngest buds of the Camellia Sinensis plant produced a different kind of twist in Tea history.
Commoners were not allowed to take part of such beverage as it was enjoyed exclusively by the Emperor and his court. History would even say that Emperor Hui Zong became obsessed with the tea that it contributed to the downfall of his empire.
Soon after that, the precious tea was made available to everyone but was very expensive and rare. On the nineteenth century, the history of the white tea changed as a variety of tea bushes were developed and cultivated to produce white tea and from then on, trade to countries outside China started.
The modern day are drawn to the sweet and mild aromatic taste of the white tea. Its benefits also doubled the interest of the people. The term white tea is simply from the silver fluff that covers the buds and turns white when dried. Shortly after the buds are opened, the immature tea leaves are picked up to make such tea.
While the mild aromatic taste of white is enough reason why people are drawn to it, the health benefits of such drink is a reason enough why everyone should try it. Since it is rich in antioxidants, the white tea boosts the immune system and protects us from diseases such as cancer. It helps lower cholesterol and blood pressure, protecting the heart functions. It is also high in calcium and fluoride that enhances bone and teeth development.
To meet everyones demands, the valued white tea comes in different types based on the origin and processing namely the Silver Needle Tea, Long Life Eyebrow, Tribute Eyebrow, White Peony and Snow bud.
The Silver Needle tea is the most popular of all. It can be harvested shortly after spring when the when the buds have not turned into tea leaves yet. This organic white tea must be hand-picked before the buds are dry and warm to ensure the sweet and mild flavor it is most sought-after for.
After the Silver Needle tea, the white peony ranks second in terms of popularity with a taste slightly stronger as the bud is harvested with two leaves. Although the remaining types are still great to the palate, these first two are top-sellers in the market. Finding a perfect type of white tea depends greatly on your preference.
