Tea Time: How long to step tea for the perfect taste

How long should tea be brewed for it to be healthiest and taste the best? According to Mother Nature Network, the right way depends on science, tea type and, of course, personal taste. The four most common teas — black, green, oolong and white — all come from the same plant, Camellia sinensis. Steep your black tea 3 to 5 minutes whether you're using tea bags or loose-leaf tea. Green tea doesn't take as long to steep. Steep 2 to 4 minutes for loose leaf, 1 to 3 minutes for tea bags. Most tea experts suggest steeping oolong tea for about 5 to 7 minutes for loose leaf and 3 to 5 minutes for tea bags. But it's a quick dip for white tea leaves, as they need only 2 to 3 minutes for loose leaf or 30 to 60 seconds with tea bags. Herbal teas are made from a mix of ingredients. Start with the recommendations on the container and adjust to taste!