9 Teas that promote longevity and where to find them

Tea has long been celebrated for its numerous health benefits, from improving digestion to boosting mental alertness. Scientific studies suggest that certain teas contain compounds that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve overall well-being, making them valuable allies in the quest for longevity. Below, we explore nine teas known for their potential longevity benefits, with examples of brands you can buy.

1. Green Tea (Sencha, Matcha, and Gyokuro)

• Why: Green tea is rich in catechins and EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), antioxidants that may help prevent heart disease, reduce inflammation, and boost metabolism.

• Where to Buy: Ippodo offers high-quality Japanese green teas like Sencha and Matcha, sourced sustainably. Tealyra also provides a wide variety of green teas, including Gyokuro, a prized Japanese tea known for its intense flavor and high antioxidant content.

Green Tea leaves Sencha – Buy on Amazon
Jade Leaf Matcha – Buy on Amazon
Organic Gyokuro – Buy on Amazon

2. White Tea (Silver Needle and Bai Mu Dan)

• Why: White tea is the least processed of all tea types, preserving high levels of antioxidants, particularly polyphenols, which support heart health and may help prevent cancer.

• Where to Buy: Teavivre offers premium Silver Needle and Bai Mu Dan white teas directly from Fujian, China, known for their delicate flavors and high quality. Art of Tea also sells organic white teas with sustainable sourcing practices.
  
  Teabloom Organic White Silver Needle – Buy on Amazon
  Original Bai Mu Dan – Buy on Amazon
  
  

3. Oolong Tea (Tie Guan Yin and Da Hong Pao)

• Why: Oolong tea contains a unique blend of catechins and caffeine that can improve metabolism, aid digestion, and support heart health. It’s also associated with reduced cholesterol levels.

• Where to Buy: Wuyi Origin specializes in Chinese oolongs like Tie Guan Yin and Da Hong Pao, which are rich in flavor and antioxidants. Tea Spot also offers a variety of high-quality oolong teas from ethical sources.
  
  FullChea - Oolong Tea – Buy on Amazon
  
  

4. Pu-erh Tea (Shou and Sheng Pu-erh)

• Why: Pu-erh tea is fermented, which adds probiotics beneficial for gut health. It’s known for aiding digestion, supporting weight management, and helping to lower cholesterol.

• Where to Buy: Yunnan Sourcing is renowned for its authentic Shou and Sheng Pu-erh teas from Yunnan, China, where they are traditionally produced. Numi Organic Tea also offers an aged Pu-erh line that’s both organic and fair-trade certified.
  
  Jinglong Tea Factory – Buy on Amazon
  Aged Pu Er Sheng Tea – Buy on Amazon
  
  

5. Black Tea (Assam, Darjeeling, and Keemun)

• Why: Black tea is high in theaflavins, antioxidants that may help support heart health, reduce inflammation, and improve gut health. The caffeine content also boosts alertness and cognitive function.

• Where to Buy: Vahdam Teas offers single-origin Assam and Darjeeling teas, which are sustainable and fair-trade. Harney & Sons provides a premium selection of black teas, including Keemun, a smoky Chinese black tea known for its depth.
  
  Assam Loose Leaf Black Tea – Buy on Amazon
  Darjeeling Tea Pouches – Buy on Amazon
  Keemun Panda China Black Tea Pouches – Buy on Amazon

6. Herbal Tea (Rooibos and Honeybush)

• Why: Although not a true “tea” from the Camellia sinensis plant, rooibos and honeybush are caffeine-free herbal teas rich in antioxidants. They support heart health, reduce inflammation, and contain unique compounds like aspalathin that aid in blood sugar regulation.

• Where to Buy: Freshpak offers sustainably sourced rooibos, and Teabox sells organic honeybush, both of which are great options for a caffeine-free, longevity-boosting tea.
  
  Davidson's Organics, Tulsi Rooibos Chai – Buy on Amazon
  Frontier Bulk Honeybush Herbal Tea – Buy on Amazon

7. Jasmine Green Tea

• Why: Jasmine green tea combines the benefits of green tea’s antioxidants with the calming effects of jasmine, which may reduce stress and improve mental clarity—important factors for longevity.

• Where to Buy: Tealyra offers a high-quality jasmine green tea, while Harney & Sons sells a popular Dragon Pearl Jasmine tea, known for its fragrant, soothing aroma.
  
  Prince of Peace Organic Jasmine Green Tea – Buy on Amazon

8. Hibiscus Tea

• Why: Hibiscus tea is rich in anthocyanins, antioxidants that support heart health, lower blood pressure, and reduce cholesterol. It’s a caffeine-free option packed with benefits for the cardiovascular system.

• Where to Buy: Traditional Medicinals provides organic hibiscus tea, widely available and sustainably sourced. Republic of Tea also offers hibiscus blends with fair-trade options.
  
  Carlyle Blood Pressure Tea Bags with Hibiscus Flower – Buy on Amazon

9. Yerba Mate

• Why: Yerba mate is a South American tea rich in caffeine, antioxidants, and micronutrients like potassium, magnesium, and manganese. Known for enhancing mental clarity and energy, it’s a great option for longevity support.

• Where to Buy: Guayaki offers sustainably grown, fair-trade yerba mate, which is both eco-friendly and high-quality. EcoTeas also offers organic yerba mate that’s shade-grown and sourced sustainably.
  
  Yerba Mate Tea Bag – Buy on Amazon

These teas offer a mix of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and metabolic benefits that can support longevity and overall wellness. Choosing high-quality, sustainably sourced teas not only provides health benefits but also contributes to a healthier planet. Enjoy exploring these teas on your journey to a longer, healthier life!