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The Best Green Tea

Last updated on October 22, 2021
Best Green Tea

Our Review Process

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Our Picks For The Top Green Teas

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Product Overview
Key Takeaway
 Best Loose Leaf

VAHDAM Himalayan Loose-Leaf Green Tea Leaves

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VAHDAM

Himalayan Loose-Leaf Green Tea Leaves

This hand-plucked tea is from tea plantations in the Himalayas. It has low caffeine content and is ideal for detoxes and cleanses. One percent of the revenue from this tea is redirected towards education for tea-growers’ children.

Overall Take

Hand-PluckedThis green tea comes from high-elevation tea plantations in the Himalayas.

 Best Low Caffeine

chaganju Genmaicha Low Caffeine Green Tea, 60-Count

chaganju

Genmaicha Low Caffeine Green Tea, 60-Count

If you're looking for a green tea that won't leave you feeling jittery after you drink it, this bag is your best bet. In fact, the caffeine is so low that you can even make it for your children. The tea is mixed with high-temperature-roasted rice and features a more fragrant aroma.

Overall Take

Restful PickNot only is this green tea refreshing, but it's also super flavorful.

  The Best Value

FGO Organic Eco-Conscious Green Tea Bags, 100-Count

FGO

Organic Eco-Conscious Green Tea Bags, 100-Count

These green tea bags are eco-conscious, and made from abacá hemp fiber paper. The tea is certified USDA organic and fresh tasting. This packaging comes with 100 tea bags.

Overall Take

Eco-Friendly PickThe tea bags are made from hemp fiber paper and are free of dyes, glue or chlorine bleach.

 Best Matcha

Celestial Seasonings Matcha Gluten Free Green Tea, 20-Count

Celestial Seasonings

Matcha Gluten Free Green Tea, 20-Count

Organic matcha and green tea are the only two ingredients in this delicious tea. Each box contains a total of 20 bags, which can be used for an individual cup of hot tea on a cold winter morning or together to create a large pitcher of iced green tea on a hot summer day. Every serving of this green tea offers 20 milligrams of caffeine, should you n...

Overall Take

Only Two IngredientsThis green tea is both gluten-free and verified not to contain any GMOs.

Buying Guide

Sipping on a warm, freshly-brewed up cup of green tea is a relaxing ritual no matter what time of day. Green tea has a number of health benefits that make it a favorite of tea drinkers. Green tea contains a natural antioxidant called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which helps prevent cell damage. Plus, it also protects against many types of diseases as well as aging. Green tea is also known for protecting against breast, prostate and colorectal cancers.

In addition to helping you feel alert, green tea can actually improve brain function. It includes caffeine, which helps fire neurons and neurotransmitters, which improve brain function, reaction time, memory and mood. Plus, green tea can also boost your metabolic rate and help you burn fat.

There are many different types of green tea available in varying grades and price ranges, each with its own unique properties. Sencha is a type of Japanese green tea with a long finish and a sweet grassy flavor. Another Japanese green tea is Gyokuro, which is exceptionally flavorful with a brothy feel. Longjing is a Chinese green tea that tastes rich and refreshing. It can be pricey as it is a prized variety. Another Chinese variety is Bilochun, which is fragrant and has a flavor that resembles edamame. There are several other varieties available.

What to Look For

  • When looking for green tea, consider which format is best for you. Green tea can be sold in loose-leaf varieties, in addition to tea bags and ready-made drinks. For example, while loose leaf tea requires a little extra work in the process, tea bags are convenient, quick and easy to use. If you prefer to have your green tea cold instead of hot, you can try a prepared green tea drink that is infused with other flavors like cane sugar or honey.
  • Keep in mind that green tea doesn’t stay fresh for long. Once you open the package, the clock starts ticking. That’s why it’s best to consider the quantity of green tea you’re purchasing carefully. If you and your family members plan on drinking a lot of green tea on a frequent basis, then a large packaging of green tea will work for you. However, if you won’t be drinking a lot of green tea regularly, then go with a small package. You don’t want to end up with stale green tea as it is not flavorful.

More to Explore

Preparing green tea the right way is somewhat of an art, and depends on the variety of tea you’re using. In general, you will need to use around two grams of green tea per 100 milliliters of water. Aim for a water temperature of between 140 and 185 degrees Fahrenheit. The time you need to steep your tea will depend on the type, but it will be between 30 seconds and three minutes long. The flavor will amplify the longer you steep it. For lower-quality green teas, go with a higher water temperature with a longer steep time as compared to high-quality green teas.

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