Confused About the Differences Between Black Tea Vs. Green Tea? By Mary Rose Antonio At Isnare.com Ezine Articles

On the surface, the differences between black tea vs green tea may seem numerous - and indeed they are! However, there are countless similarities between the two as well.

Let's learn a bit about what these similarities and differences are and just how they can help start you on the path to a healthier, more energetic lifestyle.

Both black tea and green tea come from the leaves of the same plant, Camellia sinensis. However, it is the way the leaves are processed that determines the outcome of the final product.

Green tea is very high in antioxidants and out of the two, it's processed the least. Unlike its darker, more full-flavored cousin, it isn't allowed to ferment or oxidize at all.

This part of the process ensures the final product still retains most of its beneficial antioxidants and polyphenols.

The phytochemicals present in tea leaves are highly sensitive to the oxidation process.

During oxidation, the leaves are exposed to air which allows "fermentation" or oxidation to take place. This increases caffeine levels as well tannins, whilst lessening some of its other phytochemical components such as catechins - the antioxidant powerhouses responsible for green tea fame

Fret not, even though black tea is fully fermented, all of its free-radical scavenging antioxidants are not lost. It still has a variety of health benefits associated with its consumption as well and studies have shown the theaflavins found in a fermented leaf may be just as powerful an antioxidant as those inherent in unfermented leaves.

The catechins found in fermented leaves are simply converted into theaflavins during the oxidation process. This means that black tea, although offering different beneficial properties than green tea, still delivers a wealth of healthful properties.

Aside from processing, these two possess two different flavor profiles and brewing methods.

Due to its minimal handling, green tea has more of well, green flavor. It has been described as having a flavor profile ranging from a grassy and herbaceous taste to light and slightly sweet. Indeed, green tea came from different countries, hence, Japan, China, Sri Lanka, India, and Vietnamese.

Be aware that green tea from different parts of Asia varies as far as the quality, taste, and benefits are concerned. It is because of the soil, climate, and processing that makes the huge difference.

The flavor of a fully fermented black tea is cherished the world over. In fact, outside of Asia, this beverage is enjoyed second only to the consumption of water!

It is full-bodied, yet also described as sweet or even nutty.

Its robust taste, rich, dark color and moderate caffeine content makes it the perfect choice for coffee drinkers seeking a healthier alternative to their morning cup of coffee.

As an added bonus, the caffeine found in the fully fermented leaves not only gives your body a much needed midday energy boost, but you won't endure that jittery coffee feeling afterward.

So now you see, whether you're in the green corner or the black corner, there is no loser in the Black Tea vs. Green Tea battle!

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