Move Over, China and India: African Teas Deserve a Spot in Your Cup

Tea is one of the most beloved and widely consumed beverages in the world, with a rich history and cultural significance across many countries and continents. However, when most people think of tea, they associate it with China and India, overlooking the many unique and delicious teas from Africa. Despite being less well-known, African teas offer a variety of health benefits and flavor profiles that are just as worthy of attention as their Asian counterparts.

The Origins and Production of African Teas

Tea is grown in over 20 countries in Africa.  Kenya leads the production, but other countries such as Malawi, Tanzania, Mozambique, and South Africa have an impressive array of offerings. Like Chinese and Indian teas, African teas are produced from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, however, most African teas are derived from the assammica variety.  Camellia sinensis is native to China, in fact, the word sinensis means from China.  And while the varietals may be different, the tea is produced in much the same fashion as that of other teas, involving withering, rolling, oxidizing, and drying the leaves before they are packaged and sold. 

Despite the similarities in production methods, African teas often have unique flavor profiles and qualities that are influenced by their terroir; factors such as soil composition, altitude, and climate. Grown near the equator, the teas are sun-kissed and naturally sweet.  Most are grown at extremely high elevations. For example, teas grown in the high-altitude regions of Kenya and Malawi are known for their bright, brisk flavors, while teas from South Africa's Cederberg Mountains are prized for their fruity and floral notes. In addition, some African teas, such as Rooibos, are produced from plants that are native to the region and are not related to Camellia sinensis at all.

While many factors can influence the flavor and quality of African teas, one thing that remains consistent is their high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail. Many African tea producers are committed to sustainable and ethical farming practices, ensuring that their teas are not only delicious but also environmentally and socially responsible. By seeking out these high-quality teas and learning more about their origins and production methods, tea lovers can gain a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural and culinary traditions of Africa.

The Benefits of African Teas

African teas have a variety of health benefits that make them a great addition to any diet. One of the main advantages of African teas is their high levels of antioxidants and polyphenols. These compounds help fight inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. In addition to their antioxidant properties, African teas offer a range of other health benefits. For example, certain teas like Kenyan black tea have been shown to help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, while Malawian white tea has been linked to weight loss and immune system boost.   African purple tea, also known as Kenyan purple tea, has a distinctive purple color due to the presence of anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants like those found in blueberries.  African purple tea contains higher levels of antioxidants than green tea and black tea. Some African tea, such as Rooibos from South Africa, is also naturally caffeine-free, making it a great alternative for those who are sensitive to caffeine.

Compared to Chinese and Indian teas, African herbal teas offer unique benefits and flavors. For example, while Chinese teas like green tea are known for their high levels of catechins, African teas like Rooibos are rich in unique compounds like aspalathin and quercetin. Similarly, while Indian teas like Darjeeling and Assam are prized for their bold, malty flavors, African teas like Malawi white tea offer a more delicate and nuanced taste. By incorporating a variety of African teas into your diet, you can enjoy a wide range of health benefits and flavors that are unique to this often-overlooked region of the world.

African teas are delicious and healthy beverages that are all too often overlooked in favor of teas from China and India. African teas offer numerous benefits, unique flavors, and aromas reflecting their growing regions. By exploring the origins and production of African teas and tips for brewing and enjoying them, you can gain a deeper appreciation for this wonderful beverage. So why not give African tea a try for yourself and discover its vibrant flavor? Your taste buds and your body will thank you.

References

Rasheed Z. (2019). Molecular evidence of health benefits of drinking black tea. International Journal of health sciences, 13(3), 1–3.