You are likely becoming very confused with all different tea varieties, green tea, oolong, black, Chamomile, and so on and so forth. Now, add white tea to that list. Confusing is it not? Of course it is. However, you should know that while there are many different names, that does not mean there are many different types of tea plants. No, in fact, all tea varieties come from one plant or one bush we should say, the Camilla Sinensis. It makes no difference what type of it you drink, it all comes from that same bush.

The difference really comes with what comes after the leaves have been plucked. Some are fermented, some are not, it all depends on the flavor and tastes desired. However, with white tea, it is derived from immature buds or leaves. This type is harvested just before the buds have opened fully. The name "White Tea" comes from the covering of the bud, before drying it is a silverish color, after drying it comes white.

The process of it's creation is short and sweet. There is no withering or fermentation involved. The leaves are steamed and that is all the process there is to producing it. What you get after processing is a silky, sweet flavor. However, the medicinal properties are extremely popular as well.

Research and studies have shown that because white tea leaves are left as close to natural as you can get, at the moment, you benefit from an increased number of polyphenols. This tea has been shown to contain a greater number of polyphenols then its cousins. Polyphenols are anti-oxidants that kills and fights off cancer causing cells. Of course, even if that were all the health benefits, that would be enough for many people.

However, there is more, in fact, white tea has been shown to boost the immune system of the body. It has properties that allows the body to fight viruses and fight bacteria that cause dangerous infections. Dental plaque may no longer be a problem with white tea drinkers either, because it has been shown to prevent dental plaque growth, thanks to its richness in fluoride.

Now that you know the good aspects of this tasty drink, you should also know the bad. It is expensive. For example, Silver Needles, which is the best variety and which is created entirely from buds plucked during the early spring, will cost Americans about twenty-five dollars for a forty to fifty cup, two ounce container.

However, for many people the delicious taste and health benefits a well worth the extra money.