Several studies have shown that teas have quite several health benefits that you may not know about. Research shows that it may boost your immune system, avert various diseases such as cancer or even heart-related diseases. About 63% of the people in the UK consume tea daily.
Throughout the centuries, there have been a variety of techniques used to manufacture teas as well as several different forms in which it can be consumed. Additionally, they are either packaged in tea bags, as loose leaf tea, bottled or canned among others.
The main difference between tea bags and loose leaf tea is that the tea bags are packed in small bags of silk and may have a drawstring. A tea bag is usually reusable while loose tea is simply tea leaves that are packaged loosely in a foil pouch or canister. The good thing with loose tea is that it allows you to individually measure the number of tea leaves that you desire to use hence maximum satisfaction as well as convenience.
Herbal teas such as Oolong and green teas are promoted as health products. Research supports the fact that both herbal beverages are beneficial to our health. However, most consumers are not clear which between the two is better.
Here, you will find a detailed comparison of the health benefits of each tea.
Processing method
This is the basic stage of distinguishing oolong and green herbal drinks; later it will be the basis for explaining why one drink has more amounts of antioxidants than the other.
The processing method in oolong tea starts with withering, rolling, short- fermentation and finally drying and sorting, whilst its counterpart goes through steaming, pre-drying, rolling to post -drying and shaping.
Unlike oolong, green tea is not fermented, thus it maintains the greener color and at the same time preserves more antioxidants. Also, the heat treatment of the green tea – leaves deactivates the enzymes that cause fermentation hence its unique flavor. Oolong herb tea, on the other hand, is semi-fermented and therefore usually has a flavor between green and black tea.
Taste and appearance
Brewed green loose leaves make a pale green – tea that has a grassy flavor and can be deep and intense especially if brewed for a long time. Oolong on the other hand is darker and has a stronger taste than green brew.
Overall, the taste in oolong is much better than that of its counterpart.
Caffeine level
Caffeine functions to keep us alert. Both Green and Oolong tea have the same amount of caffeine in them. Research has it that a cup of either green or oolong brew contains approximately 70 milligrams of caffeine.
Caffeine level in green tea varies between 35-70 mg while that in oolong varies between 50-75 mg. It is important to know that other factors such as brewing time and packaging, whether in teabags or loose leaf affects the amount of caffeine found in both drinks.
Weight loss
When it comes to weight loss, both beverages help in fat loss in the body. A recent study, however, suggests that oolong is twice more efficient and effective than its counterpart in weight loss. This could be due to the fact that oolong herb tea contains more caffeine than its counterpart, therefore, increasing the person’s energy expenditure.
On the other hand, green brew is also effective in burning fat thanks to bioactive substances like the catechins. The compound speeds the metabolism rate thus speeding up the process of burning fat.
Choosing between the two is not necessary, choose the one with a better taste.
Other benefits
Green teas have significantly higher amount of antioxidants, therefore, having more health benefits than the other in comparison.
The antioxidants contained in green teas are responsible for an increased mental focus as well as a reduced chance of getting heart disease. They also help to lower the blood sugar levels in the body and are associated with a lower risk of serious diseases.
Oolong on the other hand helps to boost bone health and lower blood pressure.
The Green drink takes the lead in this area as it has more advantages than oolong beverage.
Side effects
In some people, a green teacup may cause stomach upsets when consumed alongside food. Oolong tea on the other hand has no such complaints reported and is, as a matter of fact, a very good accompaniment to greasy food.
If you are also sensitive to caffeine, you should also avoid drinking too much tea. This applies to both drinks. Other side effects that are associated with these two types of tea when taken in excess include a decrease in bone mineral activity or irregular heartbeat.
It is recommended that you take between 4-5 cups max in a day to avoid these side effects.
Final Verdict
Both types of beverages, as we have seen above have their own benefits that you can draw from consuming them. The choice on between the two drinks would entirely be a matter of personal preference. This could be attributed to the fact that both have different functions that they perform.
It is also important for you to be aware that you can now order your drink from anywhere, whether you are in the office or at home. Are you craving some nice green brew? Be sure to get your cravings satisfied by ordering through the online tea and coffee shop that are available across the country.