Although there has been a lot of research done on the amazing benefits of green tea, the health benefits of white tea actually outperform its green counterpart in some circumstances.

Harvested primarily in China, white tea comes from the buds and leaves of the Chinese Camellia sinensis plant. These buds are allowed to wither in natural sunlight before being lightly processed. In fact, white tea is the least processed and oxidized tea available, and also has a very low caffeine content.

Research shows white tea reduces the risk of inflammation more than other teas, and contains more polyphenols – a powerful antioxidant that fights and kills cancer-causing cells – than any other tea.

Additionally, a 2004 study at Pace University found white tea can help your body’s immune system fight off viruses and dangerous infection-causing bacteria, and because the tea has fluoride, it can help prevent dental plaque.

The flavor is much lighter than green tea, and many brands, such as the Republic of Tea, offer it with other flavors infused.

Here are some other benefits:

-Studies show white tea can thin the blood and improve artery function, and can also help lower high blood pressure and maintain a healthy one.

-It increases good cholesterol while decreasing bad.

-It contains high amounts of catechin, an antioxidant that inhibits the growth of cancer cells

-As a natural antibacterial and antiviral, it can help tone the immune system, and ease inflammation and allergic response.