The antioxidant activity of water extracts from white, green and black tea was measured using three methods. The highest antioxidant activity was found to be related to white tea. Hot water extracts of green and normal black tea showed also statistically significant antioxidant activities (P < 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between the antioxidant activities of black tea and tea wastes, i.e. barks and old leaves discarded in the factory. In conclusion, the antioxidant capacities of water extracts of green tea leaves were almost comparable to similar extracts obtained from white tea, i.e. very young tea leaves together with blossoms. It was concluded that, although white and green tea are excellent sources of antioxidants, still old tea leaves and barks which are often considered as agricultural and factory wastes, can also be used as potential source of natural antioxidants.