Key Facts
- There are five main types: green tea, black tea, oolong, white tea, and pu-erh.
- They all come from the same plant ( Camellia sinensis )
- Difference: Processing, Oxidation & Maturation
- Taste, effect & preparation vary greatly
- Ideal for anyone looking for the right type of tea for their everyday life.
What distinguishes the most important types of tea?
Whether invigorating or calming, floral or earthy: every type of tea has its own unique character. The biggest difference lies in the processing after harvesting:
- White tea: minimally processed, often only withered and dried.
- Green tea: steamed or roasted, not oxidized
- Oolong: partially oxidized, lies between green and black tea.
- Black tea: fully oxidized, strong in flavor
- Pu-erh: fermented, some aged for years
Comparison table: Taste, effect & preparation
| type of tea | oxidation | The taste | preparation |
|---|---|---|---|
| White tea | almost none | delicate, floral, light | 70–80°C, 2–3 min. |
| Green tea | no | fresh, grassy, nutty | 70–80°C, 1–2 min. |
| Oolong | partially oxidized | creamy, floral, mineral | 85–95°C, 2–3 min., refill several times |
| Black tea | fully oxidized | malty, spicy, sometimes bitter | 90–95°C, 2–4 min. |
| Pu Erh | post-fermented | earthy, soft, complex | 95–100°C, 20–30 seconds, pouring several times |
Which variety suits you best?
Do you need focus and energy?
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Green tea (e.g., Moonlit Sencha ) or oolong (e.g., Tie Guan Yin ) offer gentle clarity.
Are you looking for peace and grounding?
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Pu-erh (e.g., Yunnan Pu-erh ) or white tea (e.g., Silver Pearl) add depth.
Are you looking for comfort and warmth?
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Milky Oolong or black teas like Special Golden Black have an enveloping effect.
Do you want a detox or a clear start?
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Green tea or white tea are ideal – light, cleansing, focusing.
