When you travel the isle at the supermarket and see all the different kinds of tea, it is hard to believe that most of the tea comes from the same plant. Most people do not realize that green tea, black tea and Oolong tea all come from the same plant. All tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant.

The only difference is how the tea leaves are processed after they are harvested. White tea is slightly different by virtue of the way it is grown. We have all heard about the wonders of green tea and how good it is for our health. Studies tell us that it can prevent cancer, boost our immune systems, lower our blood pressure, and even reduce hypertension.

The fact is that all tea’s come from the same plant and therefore will all have similar health benefits. Black tea is not as healthy because of the way it is processed. Green tea usually gets all the health benefit glory.

We are learning that other tea has just as many benefits. Oolong tea is another healthy tea. Teas are beneficial because they are very high in antioxidants. These naturally occurring antioxidants are also present in other foods like: nuts and fruits, vegetables and wine.

These antioxidants help our bodies eliminate free radicals. Free radicals are linked to cancer and many other diseases. Green tea and Oolong tea contain several components that are antioxidants. They are: catechins, flavanoids, and polyphenols.

When tea is processed it loses its healthy benefits. If tea all comes from the same plant what makes them different? The difference is in how the tea is oxidized. Oolong tea is only allowed to oxidize for a very short time after picking. Black tea is fully oxidized and green tea is un-oxidized.

The more tea is processed the less healthy it becomes for us. White tea contains the highest levels of antioxidants. Green tea is the next best healthy tea followed by Oolong tea. There is a debate about which tea is best for your health. Some believe that substances found in Oolong and black tea can be good for anti-allergy, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. These two substances are theaflavins and thearubigins. These increase in processed tea as the antioxidants decrease.

More study is needed in order for black tea to claim its stake in your good health however. We do know that green tea and Oolong tea are both good for your health. We do know that both green tea and Oolong tea has healthy benefits. You can feel good about consuming either of them.