Green tea

The Green Tea Guide: From Leaf to Cup

Green tea, made from the unoxidized leaves of Camellia sinensis, is distinguished by its characteristic green color and delicate taste. From Japanese tea ceremonies to daily tea breaks, this beverage has established itself as a true art of living, combining tradition and modernity in every cup.

The Origin of Green Tea: A Thousand-Year History

The origin of green tea dates back to ancient China, the cradle of this iconic beverage. According to legend, Emperor Shen Nong discovered tea in 2737 BC when tea leaves accidentally fell into his bowl of hot water. Initially used as a medicinal remedy, green tea gradually established itself as the beverage of choice throughout Asia.

In the 8th century, Japanese Buddhist monk Saicho introduced green tea to Japan, where it quickly became a central element of Japanese culture, giving rise to the famous tea ceremony. Over the centuries, green tea cultivation spread to other regions of Asia, particularly Vietnam, Korea, and India, with each country developing its own varieties and production techniques.

Today, although China remains the world's largest producer of green tea, this thousand-year-old beverage is appreciated and cultivated across the globe, testifying to its universality and timeless appeal.

The Benefits and Virtues of Green Tea

Green tea offers a multitude of health benefits, which explains its growing popularity worldwide.

Rich in Antioxidants

Green tea is a true source of antioxidants, particularly catechins, which protect our cells from oxidative stress. These compounds play a crucial role in preventing many chronic diseases and slowing down cellular aging.

Aids in Weight Loss

Numerous scientific studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of green tea on metabolism and weight loss. The caffeine and catechins present in green tea work synergistically to stimulate thermogenesis and fat oxidation. A study conducted by Smith et al. (2018) showed a 4% increase in basal metabolism, while Jones et al. (2020) observed a 1.3% reduction in abdominal fat mass.

Other Health Benefits

Green tea is also known to reduce stress thanks to L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation without drowsiness. It improves digestion by stimulating metabolism and promoting intestinal health. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties contribute to strengthening the immune system.

Storage and Preparation of Green Tea

Tea Storage

To preserve the freshness and aroma of your green tea, store it in an airtight container, away from light, moisture, and strong odors. Avoid temperature fluctuations by keeping it in a cool, dry place. Consume your green tea within 6 to 12 months of purchase for optimal quality. Avoid storing green tea in the refrigerator, as moisture can alter its quality.

How to choose a quality green tea?

The Origin of the Leaves

The geographical origin of green tea plays a crucial role in its quality and taste characteristics. China, the birthplace of green tea, offers a wide variety of flavors and styles. Japan is renowned for its umami green teas and unique production methods. Korea produces delicate green teas with mild and herbaceous notes, while Vietnam offers green teas with fresh and slightly bitter flavors.

The Manufacturing Process

The quality of green tea greatly depends on its manufacturing process, which includes harvesting, withering, fixation, rolling, and drying. The best leaves are hand-picked in spring, then carefully processed to preserve their beneficial properties.

Freshness and Aroma

To evaluate the quality of your green tea, use your senses. The leaves should be intact, bright to dark green. The smell should be fresh, vegetal, sometimes floral or fruity. To the touch, the leaves should be dry and crisp. The taste should offer a balanced flavor, without excessive bitterness.

FAQ on Green Tea

How to Properly Dose Green Tea?

The ideal dosage depends on the type of tea and your personal preferences. Generally, use 2 to 3 grams of leaves for 200 ml of water. For tea bags, one bag per cup is sufficient. Adjust the quantity according to the desired intensity.

Can Green Tea Help with Weight Loss? 

Green tea can contribute to weight loss through several mechanisms. It stimulates metabolism thanks to caffeine and catechins, increases thermogenesis (heat production by the body), and reduces fat absorption. A 2009 meta-analysis published in the International Journal of Obesity concluded that green tea consumption was associated with a significant reduction in weight and maintenance of lost weight.

How much green tea per day?

The optimal amount of green tea to consume daily varies among individuals. Generally, 3 to 5 cups per day are considered safe and beneficial. People sensitive to caffeine should limit their consumption to 2-3 cups. It is recommended not to exceed 8 cups per day to prevent potential side effects. Dr. Michael Greger, author of "How Not to Die", recommends consuming 3 cups of green tea per day to maximize health benefits without side effects.

Green Tea or Black Tea?

Differences Between Green Tea and Black Tea

Green tea and black tea come from the same plant, Camellia sinensis, but their manufacturing process differs:

• Green tea: The leaves are picked and quickly heated to stop oxidation, thus preserving their green color and beneficial compounds.
• Black tea: The leaves are left to fully oxidize before being dried, which gives them a dark color and a more pronounced taste.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Type of Tea

Green Tea:

Green tea is richer in antioxidants, particularly catechins. It promotes concentration and mental clarity, and contains less caffeine than black tea. However, its taste can sometimes be perceived as bitter or astringent by beginners.

Black Tea:

Black tea is characterized by a more pronounced and full-bodied flavor. Its higher caffeine content makes it an ideal choice for an energy boost. It pairs well with milk and sugar. However, it contains fewer catechins due to complete oxidation of the leaves.

How to Prepare and Enjoy Green Tea

Tea Preparation

To prepare the perfect green tea, follow these steps:

1. Choose quality water, ideally filtered or spring water
2. Heat water to the recommended temperature for your type of green tea
3. Preheat your teapot or cup by pouring some hot water in it, then empty it
4. Place the appropriate amount of tea leaves (usually 2-3g for 200ml of water)
5. Pour hot water over the leaves
6. Let steep for the recommended time, stirring gently once
7. Strain the leaves and serve

Brewing Techniques

Explore different methods to enhance your tea:

• Western brewing: In a teapot or mug, pour hot water over the leaves and let steep for the recommended time.
• Gong Fu Cha: Traditional Chinese method using a small teapot and short, repeated infusions.
• Cold brewing: Place the leaves in cold water and let steep in the refrigerator for 6 to 8 hours for a refreshing iced green tea.

Green Tea Tasting

To fully appreciate the aromas of your green tea, follow these steps:

1. Observe the color of the infusion, which can vary from pale green to golden yellow
2. Smell the aromas that emerge, note the vegetal, floral or fruity notes
3. Take a small sip and let it roll on your tongue
4. Note the different flavors: vegetal, fruity, umami, sweet or astringent

When to Drink a Cup of Green Tea During the Day?

Morning Green Tea

Starting the day with a cup of green tea can offer many benefits. It provides a natural energy boost thanks to caffeine and L-theanine, improves concentration and mental clarity, and stimulates metabolism for the day.

Afternoon Green Tea

A cup of green tea in the middle of the day can be beneficial for overcoming post-lunch fatigue, improving digestion, providing an energy boost without disrupting sleep, and promoting hydration.

Evening Green Tea

Although green tea contains caffeine, some varieties can be consumed in the evening. Here are some recommendations: