CAMELLIA SINENSIS
GREEN, BLACK AND WHITE TEA LEAF
Green, black, and white teas all stem from the Camellia sinensis plant, a native shrub of China and India. While they originate from the same plant, their distinct colors and flavors result from varying processing methods. Green tea, with its minimal oxidation, retains a light color and is rich in antioxidants. Black tea, fully oxidized, has a deeper hue and robust flavor, while white tea is the least processed, derived from the plant's young leaves and buds, preserving its delicate flavor and natural properties. Historically, these teas have not only been esteemed beverages but also holistic medicines in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic practices. The myriad health benefits of these teas are attributed to their rich polyphenol content. They are known to improve heart health, enhance metabolism, and offer anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties. For the skin, the antioxidants in these teas combat oxidative stress, reducing signs of aging, while their anti-inflammatory properties help soothe skin irritations. Particularly, green tea's catechins have been celebrated for protecting the skin against sun damage and reducing acne. In both beverage and topical form, the Camellia sinensis leaves—whether green, black, or white—continue to endow health and beauty benefits cherished across cultures and centuries.