Green Tea Introduction Green tea is a favorite among fitness enthusiasts. Unlike other teas, green tea is among the least oxidized of all teas. It is quickly preserved and heated to prevent oxidation, the same process that turns the color of an apple after you slice it because it is exposed to oxygen. Due to the difference in its processing, green tea retains the maximum amounts of antioxidants and polyphenols1 that are responsible for its many health benefits. Green teas (Indian) are grown mostly in tea estates in Darjeeling (West Bengal). High-altitude Darjeeling is grown green teas have a special astringent flavor to them, whereas Nilgiri green teas grown in South India have distinct vegetal notes with a stronger taste. What is Green Tea Like all other varieties of tea, green tea comes from the same evergreen plant named Camellia sinensis. However, it is made from unfermented leaves with minimal processing. It reportedly contains the highest concentration of antioxidants called polyphenols. Antioxidants are substances that fight and reduce free radicals and prevent some of the damage they cause to our cells, including cancer and heart disease. Although green tea is extremely popular in Japan and China, it is gaining popularity in India and other countries due to its health benefits and unique taste