What is white tea?
Originating in China, white tea is one of the most delicate teas. Its young shoots and buds are carefully hand-picked, giving it its purity. White tea, also known as "Bai", undergoes very little processing, allowing its leaves to retain a maximum of their properties. There are different types of white teas, such as Bai Mu Tan, Bai Hao Yin Zhen or Pai Tan, all prized for their delicate aromas and health benefits.
Why choose organic white tea?
Opting for organic white tea ensures a drink free from pesticides and chemicals, while allowing you to enjoy the numerous health benefits of white tea. Organic white tea leaves retain more nutrients and antioxidants, thereby helping to better protect your body against free radicals.
White tea: a delicate drink
White tea is the most delicate of all teas. Young shoots and buds are carefully hand-picked in spring, just before they bloom. This tea owes its name to the fine white down that covers the tea leaves at harvest time. White tea is the least processed tea, offering superb flavour. There are only two processing steps:
- withering, which is traditionally carried out in the open air (or sometimes in a temperature-controlled room).
- then drying, which allows it to dry (first in the sun, then in the shade) for packaging and preservation.
A precious tea
So, if white tea requires fewer processing steps, why is it so prized? Well, it is because these two stages are carried out gradually, in harmony with the natural development of the leaves. Neither roasted nor rolled, white tea is handled so little that it undergoes only slight oxidation, on the surface alone. And that is precisely what makes it so precious. The pale yellow liquor of white tea offers sweet, floral notes on the palate, brimming with freshness and refinement. In China, it is especially enjoyed in teapots during summer as a thirst-quenching infusion.
The different types of white teas
There are several types of white teas, each with its own specific characteristics and benefits. Among the most popular are:
- Bai Mu Tan (or Pai Mu Tan): a grand cru white tea, with floral and woody notes.
- Bai Hao Yin Zhen: renowned for its finesse, this tea is composed exclusively of silver buds.
- Hao Yin: another great white tea, prized for its sweetness and refined fragrance.
These white teas stand out for their quality ingredients and artisanal preparation. Their price varies according to the rarity of the leaves used and their origin. Feel free to check customer reviews to find the one that best suits your preferences.
Pai Mu Tan, an exceptional white tea
This name literally means "White Peony" in Chinese, which says a lot about its delicacy, floral fragrance and purity. Pai Mu Tan is particularly fresh, sweet and velvety, revealing delicately zesty floral accents. Its slightly woody flavour is reminiscent of chestnut. The fragility of its leaves requires careful brewing: water brought just to a simmer (preferably mineral) at 70-80°C, no more, or you risk burning its delicate aromas during infusion.
The properties of white tea
Because it undergoes minimal processing, the white tea leaf retains a maximum of nutrients, properties and therefore benefits. This wellness drink is said to hold many virtues!
White tea, your slimming ally
White tea is well known for its weight-loss benefits. A study revealed that white tea extract can promote fat breakdown and limit the formation of new fat cells. Incorporating this tea, whether loose or in teabags, into your diet can support your slimming goals.
Discover also our slimming tea!
A drink for a radiant complexion
Thanks to its antioxidants, white tea protects the skin's collagen and elastin, slowing down the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Your skin looks younger and more radiant.
When the skin's collagen and elastin are damaged, fine lines and wrinkles can appear. In your cup from teabags or brewed in your teapot, white tea is believed to hinder the activity of enzymes that break down this very collagen and elastin. Regular consumption contributes to healthy skin.
A tea that is gentle on the heart
White tea is believed to reduce bad cholesterol levels. Cholesterol strains the heart by hindering good blood circulation. Cardiovascular diseases can then arise: heart failure, heart attack, stroke… It is said that people who drink three or more cups of tea daily have a 21% lower risk of heart disease.
Immune system support
The catechins and antioxidants found in white tea strengthen the immune system, helping your body defend itself better against infections.
Discover also our immunity tea!
A brain-boosting drink
Beyond its flavour, the catechins in white tea are believed to support brain health. Their antioxidant effect helps protect neurons from oxidative stress. An exceptional brew capable of transforming your simmering water into a true wellness infusion.
Promotes good oral health
Rich in fluoride, white tea helps protect your teeth against cavities and acid attacks. The catechin in white tea is a powerful antioxidant that helps restore your smile's full radiance! Delicate, elegant and beneficial, white tea has it all! Low in theine and caffeine-free, white tea can be enjoyed at any time of day as an alternative to coffee!
A flawless smile
Discover the entire range of Kusmi white teas. For lovers of fruity flavours, Tropical White is the one for you! This white tea with notes of mango and passion fruit will delight your taste buds! If you prefer delicate and floral notes, treat yourself without delay to a cup of our Alain Ducasse White Tea with hints of raspberry and rose. Finally, for those who already know our Anastasia black tea, discover its white tea version White Anastasia for even more sweetness!