Definition & Meaning of "tea leaf"

What is a "tea leaf"?

A tea leaf refers to the leaf of the tea plant, Camellia sinensis, that is used to produce tea. These leaves are harvested from the tea plant, typically by hand-picking, and then processed through various methods to create different types of tea, such as green tea, black tea, oolong tea, and white tea. The flavor, aroma, and characteristics of the tea depend on factors such as the variety of the tea plant, the growing conditions, the time of harvest, and the processing methods employed. Tea leaves contain natural compounds such as caffeine, antioxidants, and flavonoids, which contribute to the health benefits and flavor profile of the brewed tea.