Oolong Tea
What is Oolong Tea?
Oolong Tea is a traditional Chinese tea that takes up just 2% of the world’s tea but it is one that is truly unique and popular that is worth paying attention to. Similarly with Green Tea and Black Tea, Oolong tea is made from the leave of Camellia sinensis plant. The main difference is process of tea making.
Oolong Tea, Green Tea and Black Tea all go through oxidation, which is the process of leaving the tea leaves exposed to the air to dry. Green Tea generally oxidizes for a short period of time, while Black Tea oxidizes until the tea leaves turns black. Oolong tea belongs somewhere between the two until the tea leaves turn green or dark brown.
History of Oolong Tea
The history of Oolong Tea dates back hundreds of years ago, although no one can confirm exactly how many years. Oolong Tea originated in the Fujian province of China. With mild winters and heavy rainfalls, this unique climate and conditions is perfect for oolong tea production.
In the 19th Century, Oolong tea production was introduced in Taiwan, which is 100 miles away from Fujian. The popularity of Oolong Tea grew and the Taiwanese started to produce oolong on the island. With fluctuating weather between seasons, the tea flavor could taste difference during summer, spring or autumn.
Oolong Tea Benefits
There are many health benefits of Oolong Tea, including:
- Boost metabolism - the polyphenols in oolong tea decreases the amount of fat absorbed, thus may help you lose weight
- Reduce stress - Oolong tea contains l-theanine, an amino acid that helps with sleep and relaxation
- Help lower the risk of Diabetes - Antioxidants found in Oolong tea helps reduce blood sugar and insulin levels.
- Lower risk of Heart Disease - studies show that consuming tea regularly correlates with reduced blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Improve Brain Function - the caffeine in Oolong Tea increases the release of dopamine which improve the mood, attention and brain function and potentially prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
- May protect from certain cancers - antioxidants prevent cell mutations that can lead to cancer.
Does Oolong Tea Have Caffeine?
There are several different vitamins, minerals and antioxidants in oolong tea and caffeine is one of them. A cup of brewed tea contains approximately 36mg of caffeine.
As mentioned, caffeine’s benefit includes the release of dopamine to improve the mood and brain function. In addition, it can also help burn calories, which also contributes to speeding up weight loss. Overall, the caffeine in Oolong Tea brings along many health benefits.
What Does Oolong Tea Taste Like?
With a longer oxidation process, which brings out the floral taste more strongly, Oolong tea has a fruity and grassy flavor that should taste quite light.