Let’s face it – for many of us, the thought of a nice cup of tea is the only thing that gets us out of bed. But what actually is the best tea in the world?
We’ve decided to do a bit of research and try to work out exactly what the answer to this question is. Come on a journey through tea with us!
All teas contain antioxidants, meaning that they are actually good for you as well as being delicious – but what IS the best tea you can drink?
Obviously, it is entirely down to the individual and their tastes. Why not try out all of the below, and you can decide which is the best one for you?
English Breakfast
This is what most of us think of when we think of tea – a good cup of Builder’s Tea. You can add sugar to it, use lots or little milk – or even have it black. This is a standard cup of tea that contains caffeine, which is a stimulant and can help us get through the day. It is what most of us know and think of when someone says “Would you like a cup of tea?” so it will be familiar to most people!
Earl Grey
This delicate tea, flavoured with Bergamot, is a black tea that is generally drunk without milk, or with a little lemon. Many people find it very refreshing, and there is no doubt that it can help you get out of bed in the morning. It contains caffeine, around the same amount as English breakfast, so it should be avoided if you have caffeine sensitivities.
Assam
Another black tea, this one is named after the region in India where it is grown. Assam tea tends to have a darker brew colour and a malty flavour, so it’s great for those who like a darker cuppa, and it can be drunk with or without milk or sugar, depending on your taste. It also contains caffeine, so watch out for this one if caffeiene does not agree with you.
Oolong
Oolong tea is a Chinese tea, that is semi-oxidated – in this, it falls between a black tea and a green tea. Oolong has an interesting production method; it is withered in the sun, then the leaves are curled and twisted to make the characteristic shape. Oolong is generally considered a fairly sweet tea, with woody and roasted notes, and it has a surprising array of health benefits. Like all teas, it contains antioxidants, and it can also improve heart health and control blood sugar.
Chai
Also known as Masala Chai, chai tea is a black tea that is flavoured with various aromatics such as ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves and black pepper. It is usually brewed with milk and sweetened, either with honey or sugar. Originating from India, chai tea has had cultural significance for many centuries, and can now be enjoyed the world over. It is a very comforting drink, and can help with a variety of health problems thanks to the spices that are used to flavour the tea.
White Tea
White tea is made from a standard tea plant, but only the youngest leaves and buds from the first spring harvest are used. It is the least processed of all the teas, giving it a lighter colour and a natural flavour. It has a delicate, floral taste which can even be described as mildly fruity. Although this tea does contain caffeine, it has lower levels than either green or black tea, making it ideal for those with a caffeine sensitivity.
Green
Green tea is made from the Camellia Sinensis plant and is subject to minimal oxidisation in processing. The leaves are generally dried, steamed or pan fried to halt the oxidising process, which allows the natural green colour to remain. There are a lot of different types of green tea, including matcha, that are becoming increasingly popular due to their health benefits. Green tea is particularly high in antioxidants, making it very good for the health.
Ginger
Ginger has been known for its use in digestive health for many years, as it is very calming and soothing to the stomach. Feeling bloated, gassy or nauseous can all be helped by sipping on a cup of ginger tea – and it’s delicious too! You can sweeten it with honey, add lemon, or just enjoy on its own. Ginger tea contains no caffeine, so it may not give you as much of a buzz as other types of tea, but it is a lovely drink as well as being good for you.
Mint
Another great tea for the digestion, mint tea is tasty as well as being gentle on the body. It is very soothing for gastric issues, and will give you a nice little lift first thing in the morning. Mint tea has also been shown to be helpful at combating headaches, reducing stress levels and reducing anxiety – though more research is needed to cement these claims. Mint tea has a cultural significance in many countries, including Morocco, where it is a staple drink when mixed with green tea and sugar.
Lemon
Lemon tea is zesty and refreshing, and is a great way to give yourself a little boost in the morning. You can make your own lemon tea by simply steeping lemon slices in hot water, or you can buy it as tea bags which will generally be mixed with green or black tea leaves. There is minimal caffeine – none whatsoever if you make your own – and it is a delicious drink to wake up to.
If, like many people, you can’t imagine a life without tea, then this guide is for you! Working out which is the best tea in the morning is a great way to start your day (with a cuppa, of course).
We hope you enjoyed this guide and can now work out what your favourite cup of tea to have first thing is – and, we hope that you have discovered something that might just become your favourite brew!
