Green tea is more than just a beverage—it’s a tradition, a wellness tonic, and a gentle ritual cherished for over 4,000 years. From serene Japanese tea ceremonies to modern wellness routines, this vibrant green leaf has stood the test of time. At Velora Tea, we honour this legacy by selecting the finest green teas and blending them with complementary botanicals to bring you clarity, calm, and vitality in every cup.
The Origins of Green Tea
All true tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant, but green tea is distinguished by the way it’s processed. Unlike black or oolong tea, green tea leaves are quickly steamed or pan-fired after harvest to halt oxidation. This preserves the chlorophyll, polyphenols, and signature green hue that give the tea both its colour and its wellness properties.
Originating in China, green tea eventually took root in Japan, Korea, and the wider world. It has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and revered by Buddhist monks for enhancing focus during meditation.
A Craft of Cultivation
From the misty mountain slopes of China’s Zhejiang province to the shaded fields of Uji in Japan, the best green teas are grown in cool, high-altitude regions where the leaves develop more slowly and acquire a deeper flavour profile.
Green tea varieties include:
- Sencha – Japan’s most popular green tea, steamed and grassy with a crisp, clean taste.
- Matcha – Finely ground powdered green tea with intense antioxidant content.
- Longjing (Dragon Well) – A hand-roasted Chinese green tea with chestnut notes.
- Gyokuro – A shade-grown Japanese tea with a rich, umami character.
Each style offers unique aromas, textures, and benefits—but all share a core set of health-supporting compounds.
The Health Benefits of Green Tea
Green tea’s natural chemistry has been the subject of hundreds of scientific studies. It is rich in catechins, especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), one of the most powerful antioxidants found in nature.
1. Boosts Metabolism and Supports Weight Loss
Green tea has been shown to support fat oxidation and energy expenditure. A meta-analysis published in the International Journal of Obesity titled “The effects of green tea on weight loss and weight maintenance” found that catechins and caffeine significantly increased thermogenesis and fat oxidation.
While not a substitute for diet or exercise, green tea can complement a healthy lifestyle when used consistently.
2. Enhances Brain Function and Focus
Green tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes a calm, alert state by influencing alpha brainwave activity. When combined with moderate caffeine, it may improve working memory, reaction time, and mood.
According to “The combined effects of L-theanine and caffeine on cognitive performance and mood”, a study published in Nutritional Neuroscience, this combination improves attention and reduces mental fatigue.
3. Promotes Heart Health
Regular green tea consumption is linked to lower levels of LDL cholesterol, reduced blood pressure, and a lower risk of heart disease. The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health explains this well in its article, “Tea and Health”, which summarises several large-scale findings on cardiovascular benefits.
Additionally, a major study published in JAMA, titled “Green Tea Consumption and Mortality Due to Cardiovascular Disease”, found that individuals who drank five or more cups per day had a 26% lower risk of cardiovascular death.
4. Strengthens the Immune System
EGCG has demonstrated antiviral and antimicrobial effects. In Frontiers in Immunology, the article “Green Tea Catechins as Immunomodulators” outlines how green tea polyphenols can enhance immune function and reduce inflammation.
This makes green tea a supportive choice during times of stress or seasonal illness.
5. Protects Against Oxidative Stress
Green tea is one of the most antioxidant-rich beverages, helping to counteract the cellular damage caused by free radicals. A review in Molecules, titled “Health Benefits of Green Tea Polyphenols”, confirms the anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and neuroprotective effects of green tea’s active compounds.
Its potential to reduce the risk of chronic diseases is one of the reasons green tea is a staple in health-conscious diets.
How to Brew Green Tea for Maximum Benefit
To enjoy the full flavour and preserve its beneficial compounds, brew green tea with water at 70–80°C (160–175°F) and steep for just 1–2 minutes. Avoid boiling water, which can scorch the leaves and create bitterness.
If you prefer a smoother taste, try adding a slice of lemon or a touch of raw honey.
Discover Green Tea in Our Blends
At Velora Tea, we pair green tea with botanicals that complement its character and elevate its benefits. Whether you’re seeking an energising start to your day, a cleansing post-lunch moment, or a calm cup before a creative task, our blends are designed to bring balance and nourishment.
Explore Our Green Tea Blends
Learn About Our Signature Velora Tea
Green Tea FAQ
Is green tea good for the skin?
Yes. According to the review “Green tea and skin health” in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, green tea polyphenols may protect against UV damage and support clear, youthful skin.
How much green tea is safe to drink daily?
Most research supports two to four cups per day. Higher intakes can offer additional benefits, but individuals sensitive to caffeine should moderate their intake.
Does green tea contain caffeine?
Yes, typically 25 to 35 mg per cup—less than coffee, but enough to gently boost alertness without overstimulation.