Traditionally, organic white tea comes from Fujian, a province in China, from young and untreated Camellia sinensis leaves and various other tea bushes that are native to the area. These include Chaicha, Narcissus, Da Bai, and Xiao Bai. Tea buds from the bush are delicate and have less caffeine in them than most fermented teas, or those that are older. They are what gives the tea its flavor and character.
White tea is harvested for just two to three days per year, which means supplies are extremely limited. Silver Needle tea is one of the most common. Handpicked from the first flower buds before they have a chance to open, they are dried immediately with minimal processing. It has a mild and sweet floral flavor, both delicate and refreshing, but very distinct and lingering.
Never steep this type of tea long, as people are prone to do because of the mild flavor. It is meant to be soft and smooth, and not a bold or overpowering blend.
Though the usual growing areas in Fujian, China have been the place for "original", there are now merchants producing white teas in India and having them certified organic for sales in the United States. Processing of organic white teas in the Sri Lanka area seems to be catching on with several of the large estates as well.
Tea merchants typically offer a pure selection of unblended and organic white tea made from the Chinese tea plants. However, some also have embraced the newly hybridized versions which are growing in other areas close to the region with similar climate. To get the highest quality white tea, only the new buds are harvested, and only before they sprout.
Processing means allowing them to wither naturally, pan bake them or dry them in the sun. Each of the buds is covered with silvery down, some long and some short depending on the exact varietal where they grew. Organic white tea is not chemically processed in any way, and is the most natural of all teas. It is very low in caffeine, and provides lots of anti oxidants to help drinkers live a healthier lifestyle.
About this Author
Angela Carey is a freelance writer and lifelong learner. Learn more about a variety of teas, their health benefits and where to purchase high quality teas at http://www.buyteaonlinenow.com.
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