Trying Out Different Types of Tea | Personal Experiences

Tea. It’s the drink that fuels mornings, soothes nights, and makes rainy days feel cozy. It’s also the second most consumed beverage in the world after water. That’s right—people love tea. And for good reason.

From the grassy freshness of green tea to the deep, bold richness of black tea, there’s a cup for every taste and mood. Need an afternoon pick-me-up? Black tea has your back. Want something to help you unwind? Chamomile is practically a lullaby in a cup.

But tea isn’t just about taste—it’s packed with health benefits. Some teas help with digestion, others boost focus, and a few even claim to keep you looking youthful. (We’re not saying tea is the fountain of youth, but it wouldn’t hurt to try, right?)

In this guide, we’re diving into everything tea—its history, types, benefits, and the best way to brew it. By the end, you’ll know your oolong from your pu-erh and never over-steep a delicate white tea again.

A Brief History of Tea: Accidental Brilliance

Like many great discoveries (looking at you, chocolate chip cookies), tea was an accident. Legend has it that in 2737 B.C., Chinese Emperor Shen Nong was boiling water when some leaves from a nearby plant drifted in. Being a curious guy, he took a sip and—boom—tea was born.

From China, tea made its way to Japan, where matcha became a cultural art form. India, meanwhile, brought us the bold, spiced goodness of chai. Eventually, tea reached Europe, where the British turned it into a daily ritual (and, let’s be honest, an excuse to eat scones).

Today, countries like China, India, and Sri Lanka are top producers, and tea culture is thriving worldwide. Whether you drink it for the taste, the health benefits, or just the ritual of it all, there’s no denying—tea is here to stay.

Now, let’s get into the fun part: the different types of tea and why you might want to pour yourself a cup right now.

Types of Tea from the Camellia Sinensis Plant

All “true” teas—green, black, white, oolong, and pu-erh—come from the same plant, Camellia sinensis. The difference? It’s all in the processing. Some leaves are left fresh and vibrant, while others are oxidized and aged into deep, bold brews. Let’s break it down.

Green Tea: Antioxidant-Rich and Refreshing

Green tea is like the overachiever of the tea world. It’s packed with antioxidants, great for your brain, and even helps with fat burning. The leaves skip oxidation, keeping their fresh, grassy flavor and their powerful catechins—the antioxidants that give green tea its superpowers.

Looking for a bold green tea? Try Numi’s Gunpowder Green, where tightly rolled leaves pack a punch of flavor. Prefer something a little more soothing? Jasmine Green, scented with night-blooming jasmine, brings a floral touch that’s both refreshing and calming.

Brewing Tips: Heat water to 175°F (not boiling—unless you enjoy bitter tea). Steep for 2–3 minutes, and sip your way to better health.

Black Tea: Bold Flavor and Heart Health

Need a caffeine boost with some serious flavor? Black tea is your go-to. It’s fully oxidized, which gives it its deep color, rich taste, and higher caffeine content. Plus, it’s loaded with antioxidants that support heart health and may help lower cholesterol.

For a classic, robust cup, Numi’s Breakfast Blend delivers a strong, malty experience. Want a twist? Aged Earl Grey, infused with fragrant bergamot orange, adds a citrusy flair. Or go for Chinese Breakfast, a Yunnan black tea with smooth, chocolatey notes.

Brewing Tips: Use boiling water and steep for 3–5 minutes. Drink it straight, or add milk and sugar—your call.

White Tea: Subtle and Antioxidant-Packed

White tea is the least processed of the bunch, which means it’s light, delicate, and full of antioxidants. It’s naturally sweet with floral notes and has lower caffeine than green or black tea—perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up without the jitters.

Numi’s White Rose brings a soft floral aroma, while Orange Spice blends citrus peel and warm spices with Bai Mu Dan white tea for a smooth, slightly zesty sip.

Brewing Tips: Use water heated to 170–185°F and steep for 2–3 minutes. Too hot? You’ll lose the gentle sweetness.

Oolong Tea: A Harmonious Balance

Oolong is the middle ground between green and black tea—partially oxidized, meaning its flavor ranges from light and floral to rich and nutty. It’s also known for aiding digestion and supporting metabolism (so maybe pair it with that second helping of dessert?).

Numi’s Ti Kuan Yin Oolong offers a beautifully complex profile with vegetal and nutty notes. It’s smooth, aromatic, and great for multiple steeps.

Brewing Tips: Heat water to 185–205°F and steep for 3–5 minutes. Try re-steeping—the flavors evolve with each infusion.

Pu-erh Tea: Aged for Rich Flavor and Unique Benefits

Pu-erh is the adventurous tea drinker’s dream. It’s fermented and aged, which gives it a deep, earthy flavor and a distinct smoothness. It’s often sipped after meals to support digestion and boost gut health.

Numi’s Emperor’s Pu-erh is rich, malty, and grounding—perfect for those who love a full-bodied tea with depth.

Brewing Tips: Use boiling water, steep for 3–5 minutes, and don’t stop at one infusion. Pu-erh evolves with every steep, unlocking new layers of flavor.

Now that you know your way around true teas, let’s talk about another category—herbal teas, the caffeine-free wonders that bring relaxation, bold flavors, and even a few medicinal perks.

Herbal Teas: Caffeine-Free and Healing

Not a fan of caffeine? No problem. Herbal teas offer a world of bold flavors, calming aromas, and wellness benefits—without the caffeine buzz. Unlike green or black tea, these infusions don’t come from the Camellia sinensis plant. Instead, they’re made from herbs, flowers, spices, and fruits, creating an endless variety of flavors and benefits.

Chamomile: Calming and Gentle

Need to unwind after a long day? Chamomile is like a warm hug in a cup. This floral infusion has been used for centuries to promote relaxation, ease anxiety, and improve sleep. It’s packed with antioxidants, which may also help with digestion and inflammation.

Numi’s Chamomile Lemon blend takes the classic chamomile experience up a notch by adding a bright citrus twist. Perfect for sipping before bedtime—or anytime life feels a little too chaotic.

Brewing Tip: Steep in boiling water for 5–7 minutes. The longer it steeps, the stronger the calming effect (and the flavor).

Mint: Invigorating and Digestive

Ever had a stomachache and reached for a cup of mint tea? There’s a reason for that. Mint is a natural digestive aid, helping to soothe bloating, nausea, and indigestion. It also has a refreshing, cooling effect, making it a great choice when you need a little energy boost—without caffeine.

Numi’s Moroccan Mint is a powerhouse of flavor, made with organic North African spearmint. It’s crisp, naturally sweet, and perfect hot or iced.

Brewing Tip: Steep in boiling water for 5–7 minutes. Try it cold for a refreshing summer drink.

Rooibos: Antioxidant-Rich and Naturally Sweet

Rooibos (pronounced “roy-boss”) is a South African herb that’s naturally caffeine-free and rich in antioxidants. It has a naturally sweet, slightly nutty flavor and pairs beautifully with milk—making it a great alternative to black tea. Plus, it’s packed with minerals like calcium and magnesium, which support bone health.

Numi’s Rooibos Chai blends warm spices with rooibos for a comforting, spiced brew, while Chocolate Rooibos adds a hint of cocoa for a dessert-like treat—without the guilt.

Brewing Tip: Steep in boiling water for 5–7 minutes. Add milk and honey for a smooth, cozy drink.

How to Brew the Perfect Cup of Tea

Making tea is part science, part art. Get the temperature wrong, and you might end up with a bitter mess. Steep it too long, and suddenly your delicate tea is way too strong. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered.

Steeping Temperature and Time Guide:

• Green Tea: 175°F, 2–3 minutes
• Black Tea: Boiling, 3–5 minutes
• White Tea: 170–185°F, 2–3 minutes
• Oolong Tea: 185–205°F, 3–5 minutes
• Pu-erh Tea: Boiling, 3–5 minutes
• Herbal Teas: Boiling, 5–7 minutes

Want the best flavor? Ditch the tea bags and go for loose-leaf tea. It gives the leaves room to expand, releasing all their natural oils and nutrients. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

Incorporating Tea into a Healthy Lifestyle

Tea isn’t just a drink—it’s a daily ritual, a little pocket of peace in a busy day. Whether you need a caffeine boost to start your morning or a soothing cup to wind down at night, there’s a tea for every moment.

Caffeinated vs. Caffeine-Free: Timing Your Tea Right

Mornings can be rough, and that’s where teas like black, green, or oolong come in. They provide a steady energy lift without the jitters of coffee. Thanks to L-theanine, an amino acid unique to tea, you’ll get a calm, focused boost instead of a caffeine crash. Afternoon slump? A mid-day oolong or a lighter green tea keeps you alert without disrupting sleep later.

Evenings are all about slowing down, and caffeine-free herbal teas like chamomile, rooibos, or mint are perfect for relaxing before bed. Chamomile soothes, rooibos adds warmth, and mint refreshes—each one a little act of self-care in a cup.

Mindful Sipping: Turning Tea Into a Wellness Practice

Ever noticed how a warm cup of tea forces you to slow down? From the sound of water boiling to the aroma of steeping leaves, making tea can be a mini meditation. Instead of rushing through it, take a breath, feel the warmth of the cup in your hands, and savor each sip.

Tea drinking can be a mindful ritual—one that helps reduce stress, keeps you hydrated, and brings a moment of calm to a hectic day. Plus, it’s a great way to stay present, even if just for five minutes.

Numi Tea: Quality You Can Feel Good About

Not all teas are created equal. Numi is committed to organic, sustainable tea sourcing, ensuring every cup is free from synthetic additives and filled with pure, natural ingredients. They work directly with farmers, support fair trade, and focus on eco-friendly packaging—so your tea not only tastes good but does good.

The World of Tea Awaits

Tea has been cherished for centuries, crossing cultures, continents, and generations. From its deep-rooted history to its incredible health benefits, it’s more than just a beverage—it’s an experience.

There’s a tea for every taste, mood, and moment. Want a metabolism-boosting green tea? A bold black tea to kickstart your day? A soothing herbal infusion for bedtime? The choices are endless.

Explore different teas, experiment with flavors, and discover what suits you best. And if you’re looking for high-quality, ethically sourced options, Numi’s collection is a great place to start.

So go ahead—brew a cup, take a sip, and enjoy the journey.