A cup of tea can do many things, whether it is helping you start the day, helping you unwind in the evening, or simply helping you enjoy a moment of comfort. But not all teas are made the same way. Fiyinfoluwa Odukoya looks at 10 popular tea varieties and what makes each one unique.
1. Black Tea
Black tea is the most popular tea variety globally and is commonly consumed in Nigeria. It is fully oxidised, giving it a bold flavour, darker colour, and higher caffeine content than many other teas.
2. Green Tea
Green tea undergoes minimal processing, which helps preserve its antioxidants. It has a lighter taste than black tea and is often chosen for its potential health benefits.
3. White Tea
White tea is one of the least processed tea varieties. Made from young tea buds and leaves, it has a delicate flavour and contains high levels of antioxidants.
4. Ginger Tea
Prepared from fresh or dried ginger root, ginger tea has a spicy, warming flavour. It is widely consumed in here and is often taken for digestive comfort and general wellness.
5. Hibiscus Tea (Zobo Tea)
Made from dried hibiscus petals, this tea has a tart, fruity taste and is rich in antioxidants. It can be served hot or cold and remains one of Nigeria’s most familiar herbal teas.
6. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is made from dried chamomile flowers and is naturally caffeine-free. It is commonly consumed in the evening because of its calming properties.
7. Peppermint Tea
This herbal tea is made from peppermint leaves and has a cooling, refreshing taste. It is often used to help relieve bloating and digestive discomfort.
8. Fruit Tea
Fruit teas are blends made from dried fruits, flowers, and herbs rather than traditional tea leaves. They come in flavours such as berry, apple, peach, and tropical fruits and are usually caffeine-free.
9. Rooibos Tea
Originating from South Africa, rooibos tea is naturally caffeine-free and has a mild, slightly sweet flavour. It is rich in antioxidants and has become increasingly available in Nigerian supermarkets.
10. Oolong Tea
Oolong tea is partially oxidised, placing it between green and black tea in terms of flavour and strength. It offers a more complex taste profile than many other teas.
