Different types of tea leaves, especially due to variations in production processes, fermentation levels, and the tenderness of the tea leaves, require slightly different brewing methods. To savor the best flavors and reap health benefits, it's essential to understand the proper brewing techniques for each type of tea. This ensures that the tea is brewed healthily.

Green tea—Drink immediately after brewing. The health benefits of green tea, such as its antioxidant properties, ability to清除自由基, anti-aging, and抗病毒 effects, are primarily due to its polyphenol content. If brewed at too high a temperature or for too long, these polyphenols can be destroyed, turning the tea yellow and causing the aromatic compounds to evaporate. Generally, green tea should be brewed at 80°C, just as the water begins to boil, for 2–3 minutes. It's best consumed immediately. The ideal tea-to-water ratio is 1:50, typically 3 grams of tea leaves to 150 ml of water, resulting in a balanced flavor. The brewing methods for yellow tea and white tea are similar.

Black tea—Longer brewing for better health. Due to its fermentation process, black tea benefits from higher brewing temperatures, which help release flavonoids, enhancing both flavor and health benefits. It's best brewed with boiling water for about 5 minutes. The tea-to-water ratio is similar to green tea. Gongfu black tea can be brewed 3–4 times, while broken black tea is best brewed 1–2 times.



Oolong tea—Use more leaves. Oolong tea should also be brewed with boiling water. A larger quantity of leaves is recommended, typically 10 grams, filling half of a small teapot. Oolong tea can be brewed 5–6 times, with brewing times ranging from 2 to 5 minutes.

Dark tea—Focus on rinsing. Dark tea is a post-fermented tea with coarser leaves. Its characteristic "aged flavor" requires vigorous brewing with boiling water to fully extract its compounds. Loose dark tea infuses quickly, while compressed brick tea may need to be boiled. For the first brew, rinse the tea quickly for 10 seconds: add boiling water, wait briefly, pour it out, then add fresh boiling water and cover. This removes impurities and enhances the flavor. Subsequent brews should last about 5 minutes.