Drinking white tea can reduce your risk for heart disease, dental cavities, and insulin resistance. Though there isn’t much research on it compared to more popular teas like green tea, it’s still a healthy addition to your diet.

Its leaves and buds are picked just before they are fully open, when they’re covered in fine white hairs. This is where white tea gets its name.

Green tea and black tea are also made from the Camellia sinensis plant. However, different processing methods give them their unique flavors and aromas.

White tea is the least processed of the three teas. Because of this, it retains a high amount of antioxidants.

This is thought to be one reason why studies have linked white tea with many health benefits. For example, it may help reduce the risk of heart disease, combat skin aging and even help with weight loss.

This article lists 10 science-backed benefits of drinking white tea.

1. It’s Rich in Antioxidants

2. May Reduce the Risk of Heart Disease

3. Could Help You Lose Weight

4. Help Protect Your Teeth from Bacteria

5. Has Compounds That May Fight Cancer

6. May Lower the Risk of Insulin Resistance

7. Compounds in White Tea May Protect Against Osteoporosis

8. May Help Combat Skin Aging

9. May Help Protect Against Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s Diseases

10. It Is Easy to Prepare

White tea is not only healthy — it is also very easy to prepare.

Simply add loose white tea to a pot and pour hot water over the tea leaves. Let the leaves steep for five to eight minutes, then strain and serve the tea.

Ideally, the water should be 170–185°F (75–85°C). Avoid using boiling water because it can ruin the delicate flavor of white tea.

Instead, bring the water to a rolling boil, then let it sit for a minute or two to cool down.

White tea has a subtle yet refreshing taste. It can be enjoyed both hot or as a cold brew.

If you prefer a stronger tea, then you can add more dry leaves if you’d like. It’s best to experiment until you create the right flavor balance for your taste preferences.

You can purchase white tea leaves online or from your local health food store.

Alternatively, you can purchase premade bags of white tea from your local grocery store. These bags can be steeped in hot water for two to three minutes and then removed, leaving you with delicious tea.