What are the 3 different types of tea?

It's not quite as simple as 3 types of tea! While you might see tea categorized as black, green, and herbal, that's actually a bit of an oversimplification. Here's a more accurate breakdown:

1. True Teas (Camelia sinensis):

* These are all derived from the same plant, *Camellia sinensis*. The processing methods are what differentiate them:

* Black Tea: Fully oxidized, resulting in a darker color and bolder flavor.

* Green Tea: Minimally oxidized, resulting in a lighter color and grassy flavor.

* White Tea: Unfurled buds and young leaves, minimally processed, with a delicate flavor.

* Oolong Tea: Partially oxidized, with a wide range of flavors depending on the processing method.

* Pu-erh Tea: Post-fermented, with a complex earthy flavor.

2. Herbal Teas (Infusions):

* These are made from various herbs, flowers, fruits, and spices, not the *Camellia sinensis* plant.

* Examples: Chamomile, peppermint, hibiscus, ginger, rooibos.

3. Rooibos Tea:

* Rooibos tea is technically an herbal tea, but it comes from a specific plant, *Aspalathus linearis*, native to South Africa.

* It has a naturally sweet, slightly earthy flavor and is caffeine-free.

So, while it's common to hear "black, green, and herbal," there are actually many more types of tea out there!