Discover the craft
How loose tea is made
Discover the Craft: How Loose Leaf Tea is Made
If you’re curious about how loose leaf tea is crafted, you're in for a treat. Every tea—from your morning black tea to the delicate white teas—begins its journey from the same humble plant: Camellia Sinensis. What makes each tea unique lies in the way the leaves are processed, transforming their flavour, aroma, and appearance.
From Bud to Brew: The Transformation of Tea
Loose leaf tea is all about celebrating the leaf in its purest form. Unlike teabag tea, which is chopped and crushed into tiny pieces to fit into bags, loose leaf tea maintains its whole-leaf integrity. This means more flavour, more nutrients, and more room for the leaves to release their true potential.
For example, white tea like Silver Needles is made from young, tender buds that are simply picked and dried gently. On the other hand, black tea undergoes full oxidation, which gives it that rich, robust flavour and deep colour we associate with a classic British cuppa.
At Teaspoon Tea Co, we offer a vibrant selection of loose leaf teas. Let’s dive into how these amazing teas are created.
The 5 Stages of Tea Processing
Making loose leaf tea is a detailed process. Every step is essential to reduce moisture, develop flavour, and prepare the leaves for your teapot. Here’s how it happens:
1. Withering: Nature Takes Its Time
In the first stage, tea leaves are spread out in long metal troughs to dry and soften. This allows water to evaporate naturally, and the leaves become flexible, preparing them for the next stage. While traditionally done by air drying in open rooms, modern factories use fans to control the process better. During this time, the leaves undergo a chemical transformation, where flavour compounds start to develop, giving tea its unique taste and aroma.
2. Rolling: Shaping the Leaves
After withering, the leaves are ready to be rolled. Rolling machines press the leaves gently, breaking their cells and encouraging faster oxidation. The rolling process not only squeezes out remaining moisture but also shapes the tea leaves. This stage is crucial for unlocking the tea’s flavour potential. In high-quality teas like Oolong, rolling is often done by hand for precision.
3. Oxidisation: The Magic Behind Black and Oolong Teas
Oxidisation is what gives black and oolong teas their bold flavours and darker colours. Once rolled, the leaves are spread out and left to oxidise naturally. How long the leaves are left to oxidise depends on the desired flavour profile. For black teas, this process is longer, resulting in that characteristic strong, malty taste. Oolong teas are only partially oxidised, giving them a more floral and complex flavour.
4. Drying: Locking in Flavour
Once oxidation is complete, the leaves are dried to stop the process and lock in the flavours. Drying methods vary, from passing the leaves through warm ovens to placing them on circular trays that slowly spin in drying chambers. Some teas, like Lapsang Souchong, are even smoked over pine wood, creating their distinct smoky aroma and taste.
5. Cleaning and Grading: A Final Touch
Once dried, the tea leaves are cleaned, removing stems, fibres, and other unwanted bits. Then, they are graded according to size and quality, with the larger whole leaves making their way into loose leaf tea packets and the smaller pieces (fannings) ending up in teabags. At Teaspoon Tea Co, we ensure only the best leaves make it into our collection.
Why Choose Loose Leaf Tea?
Loose leaf tea is a sensory experience. The larger leaves mean more room for the tea to expand and release complex flavours that teabags simply can't match. With loose leaf tea, you're not just brewing a beverage; you’re making a cup full of history, craftsmanship, and care.
At Teaspoon Tea Co, we believe that the true beauty of tea is in its simplicity and variety. Whether you’re just beginning your loose leaf tea journey or you're already a tea connoisseur, our wide range of teas—from the lightly oxidised white teas to the deeply flavourful black teas—offers something for everyone.
Experience the Difference
- So next time you brew a cup, take a moment to appreciate the journey those leaves have taken—from being hand-picked in the hills to resting in your teapot. Each sip is a connection to tradition, nature, and flavour.
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How Many Servings Do You Get from a Packet of Loose Leaf Tea?
If you're new to loose leaf tea, one of the first questions you might have is: How many cups of tea will I get from a packet? It's a great question, and you're not alone! Understanding how servings work with loose leaf tea can be tricky, especially if you're used to the simplicity of tea bags.
So, let's break it down! Whether you're looking for a refreshing cup of green tea, a bold black tea, or something more exotic like oolong, here's a quick guide to help you understand our tea packet sizes and how many cups you can enjoy from each.
We Sell by Weight, Not Volume
Loose leaf tea is all about giving you a better, richer flavour, but since we sell our tea by weight, not volume, it can be hard to picture how many servings you'll get. Don’t worry—we’ve done the hard work for you! Our teas fall into three main weight categories: Medium weight Teas, Lightweight Teas, and Heavyweight Teas. Each type of tea has a different density, which affects how many servings you'll get from each packet.
Medium Weight Teas
These teas are the most popular in our collection and are perfect if you’re new to loose leaf tea. Whether it’s a classic Black Tea, a fragrant Flavoured Tea, a refreshing Green Tea, or a more complex Oolong, these teas typically weigh about 2 grams per teaspoon.
Here’s what you can expect from our medium weight teas:
- 50g packet = 25 servings
- 100g packet = 50 servings
- 200g packet = 100 servings
- 500g packet = 250 servings
These teas are a great place to start as you experiment with loose leaf tea. You’ll get plenty of servings and can easily adjust the amount of tea to suit your taste.
Lightweight Teas
If you prefer lighter teas, such as herbal options like Camomile, Nettle, and Peppermint, you’re in luck! These teas are incredibly light but still pack a punch in terms of flavour.
For lightweight teas, each teaspoon weighs about 1 gram, so you’ll get:
- 50g packet = 50 servings
- 100g packet = 100 servings
- 200g packet = 200 servings
Because these teas are so light, you’ll enjoy more cups from each purchase, making them an excellent investment for tea lovers.
Heavyweight Teas
If you’re into rich, fruity blends or tightly rolled teas, you’re looking at our heavyweight category. Teas like fruity infusions Spiced Apple or Red Berries fall into this group. These teas tend to weigh about 3-5 grams per teaspoon, which means fewer servings per packet.
Here’s the breakdown for heavyweight teas:
- 50g packet = 15 servings
- 100g packet = 30 servings
- 200g packet = 60 servings
Adjust to Your Taste
Remember, one of the best things about loose leaf tea is the flexibility it gives you! Want a stronger cup? Add more tea. Prefer a lighter flavour? Use a little less. Loose tea gives you the freedom to create your perfect cup, whether you’re sipping on a morning black tea or experimenting with new flavours.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match teas too! Combine different flavours to discover new blends and create something entirely your own. The possibilities with loose leaf tea are endless, and it’s all part of the fun.
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What Is Black Tea?
Black tea, a beloved staple in Western culture, originates from the Camellia sinensis plant. This versatile tea is known for its robust flavor and dark color. There are two main varieties of the Camellia sinensis plant: Camellia sinensis (Sinensis), native to China, and Camellia sinensis (Assamica), native to the Assam region in India. The majority of black teas, including popular varieties like English Breakfast and Earl Grey, are derived from the Assamica variety. Black tea undergoes a thorough process involving withering, rolling, oxidization, and firing, which contributes to its distinctive taste and aroma.
Black tea leaves are more oxidized than those of oolong, green, and white teas, giving them their dark color and rich flavor. The oxidation process not only changes the color of the leaves but also enhances the flavor and aroma, making black tea a favorite among tea enthusiasts. The long history of black tea spans centuries and continents, evolving through various cultures and brewing traditions. Each region that produces black tea, such as India, China, Sri Lanka, and Kenya, imparts its unique characteristics to the tea, influenced by local climate, soil, and processing techniques.
Black Tea Benefits
Black tea offers many health benefits, including reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, improving heart health, aiding digestion, providing an energy boost, and promoting relaxation. It also supports weight
management, enhances oral health, and strengthens the immune system. Here are the benefits in detail:
Antioxidant Properties
Black tea is rich in antioxidants like polyphenols and catechins, which reduce oxidative stress and prevent cellular damage. Regular consumption protects cells from free radicals, reduces inflammation, and may help prevent chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
Heart Health
Black tea may improve heart health by lowering LDL cholesterol and improving blood vessel function, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Flavonoids in black tea enhance blood flow and reduce the risk of stroke and coronary heart disease. Regular consumption is linked to lower blood pressure.
Digestive Aid
The tannins in black tea reduce gut inflammation and promote healthy digestion. Black tea's antimicrobial properties combat harmful bacteria in the digestive tract, promoting a healthy balance of gut flora.
Energy Boost
High in caffeine, black tea enhances alertness and concentration, providing a sustained energy boost without jitters. Compounds like L-theanine improve mental clarity and focus, making black tea ideal for productivity and cognitive performance.
Stress Relief
L-theanine in black tea promotes relaxation and improves focus. This amino acid, combined with caffeine, reduces stress while maintaining mental clarity. L-theanine increases alpha waves in the brain, associated with a state of relaxed alertness, making black tea perfect for unwinding or preparing for a busy day.
Weight Management
Some studies suggest black tea supports weight loss and management. Polyphenols in black tea may reduce calorie intake, fat absorption, and promote fat breakdown.
Improved Oral Health
Black tea improves oral health by reducing plaque formation and inhibiting bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease. Tannins in black tea reduce oral inflammation and protect against infections.
Enhanced Immune Function
Antioxidants and compounds in black tea strengthen the immune system, helping to fight infections. Regular consumption is linked to a lower risk of certain infections and improved immune response.
What Does Black Tea Taste Like?
Black tea is known for its bold, robust flavor and dark, rich color. Depending on the specific type and region of origin, the taste can range from malty and sweet, as in Assam tea, to brisk and citrusy, like Darjeeling tea.
Some black teas, such as Earl Grey, are infused with flavors like bergamot oil, adding a distinctive citrus aroma. The flavor profile can be influenced by the processing method, the region of cultivation, and the specific blend of leaves used.
Assam black tea is often described as malty and strong, with a bright, robust flavor that holds up well to milk and sugar. Darjeeling black tea, often referred to as the "champagne of teas," has a lighter, more delicate flavor with floral and fruity notes.
Ceylon black tea from Sri Lanka offers a full-bodied, brisk taste with hints of citrus and spice. These diverse flavor profiles make black tea a versatile beverage that can be enjoyed in various ways, from a simple cup of hot tea to a complex blend of iced tea or chai.
History of Black Tea
Black tea has a rich history that dates back to the mid-17th century. It was first produced in China, where it was called "hong cha" or "red tea" due to its reddish-brown liquor.
The tea gained popularity in Europe, particularly in Britain, where it became a significant part of British culture and daily life. The British East India Company played a crucial role in popularizing black tea in the West by establishing tea plantations in India and Sri Lanka to meet the growing demand.
The journey of black tea from China to the rest of the world is a tale of trade, colonialism, and cultural exchange. In the early days, black tea was a luxury item, enjoyed by the wealthy and the elite.
Over time, it became more accessible to the general public, especially with the establishment of tea plantations in India and Sri Lanka. Today, black tea is one of the most widely consumed beverages globally, enjoyed by millions for its rich flavor and numerous health benefits (Full Leaf Tea Company Wholesale).
Does Black Tea Have Caffeine?
Black tea generally contains a higher amount of caffeine compared to green or white teas, making it an excellent choice for a morning or afternoon energy boost.
A typical cup of black tea can contain anywhere from 40 to 70 milligrams of caffeine, depending on the steeping time and quantity of tea used. For those who prefer a lower caffeine option, decaffeinated varieties are also available, such as decaf English Breakfast tea.
The caffeine content in black tea can vary based on several factors, including the type of tea, the amount of tea used, and the brewing method. For instance, Assam black tea typically has a higher caffeine content compared to other black teas.
The longer the tea is steeped, the more caffeine is extracted from the leaves. Despite its higher caffeine content, black tea provides a more gradual and sustained release of energy compared to coffee, making it a preferred choice for those looking to avoid the quick spikes and crashes associated with coffee consumption).
How Do You Steep Black Tea?
Add 1 tsp of black tea to an infuser. Let the tea steep for 3 to 5 minutes in 8 oz of boiling temperature filtered water. After the tea is done steeping, remove the tea leaves from the liquid and enjoy!
What Is Herbal Tea?
Herbal teas have a long history all over the world. Herbal tea is simply an infusion of any edible plant. It is available in huge varieties and can be made using many different ingredients, including tree bark, flowers, leaves, roots, spices, seeds, and fruit. Some argue that herbal tea is not technically a “tea” because it does not come from the Camellia Sinensis, the tea plant.
Traditional Chinese Medicine is famous for using herbal teas to heal countless ailments and afflictions. Herbal tea also has a medicinal history in Sri Lanka, Egypt, and Greece. Many cultures make herbal tea for spiritual benefit and believe it opens up the heart and mind to a spiritual connection.
For the majority of human history, herbal teas have been the beverage of choice. The earliest verbal record of herbal teas dates back to 2737 BC in China. In written history, we can find records of herbal tea that go as far back as the third century AD. These teas spread from China to Egypt to Japan, and then to Europe and beyond.
You may hear herbal tea called a “tisane” in Europe. Some of the most popular herbal teas include Mint, Chamomile, and Ginger. At Full Leaf Tea Co., we love the flexibility of working with herbal teas. We offer over twenty varieties of herbal tea to meet your specific health needs.
All About Herbal And Fruit Tea
The different herbs used in tea have a huge variety of health benefits! Here is a graphic showing some herbs that are commonly used in tea and some of the amazing health benefits they may bring to the drinker.
Chamomile
Chamomile Tea has a myriad of health benefits. It is amazing at treating insomnia and when drunk near bedtime will help the drinker have a good night’s sleep. Chamomile can also settle a sore stomach and is generally a good treatment for a cold. If you’re looking to reduce stress and anxiety chamomile might help you relax. Chamomile Tea is also fantastic for your hair, skin, and nails. Drinking Chamomile Tea may also reduce your risk of cancer, as it contains antioxidants that significantly reduce free radicals in the body.
Linden Leaf
Linden Leaf Tea gives the immune system a powerful boost. Like chamomile, Linden Leaf helps calm the body and reduces anxiety and stress. Linden is also known to reduce inflammation, the culprit of many common diseases. Drinking Linden Leaf Tea may also reduce your stress and soothe a sore throat.
Holy Basil
Holy Basil Tea has a long history of medicinal use, especially in Southeast Asia. Holy Basil has been used to treat everything from bronchitis to malaria. It is also well known for helping to prevent eye diseases and relieve fevers and congestion. Holy Basil can be used to treat an upset stomach and help prevent such symptoms as vomit and diarrhea. Holy Basil Tea can also be used to help treat eczema and improve digestion.
Peppermint
Peppermint Tea is best known as a reliable solution for an upset stomach, and it is even used to treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Peppermint Tea can also treat your headache, as it opens up the brain’s constricted blood vessels, just like ibuprofen. If you are experiencing sinus or congestion trouble, Peppermint Tea can ease your inflamed mucous membrane and provide some relief.
Fennel
Fennel Tea is excellent for healing the digestive system. It has been used to treat IBS, Crohn’s disease, and muscle spasms in some. Fennel Tea can also help increase your appetite and assist with smooth digestion. If you are a nursing mother, Fennel Tea might help stimulate your milk production and ease the lactation process. Fennel Tea is often sought for its ability to improve brain function in some, making it a popular choice for night owls.
Ginger
Ginger Tea has a long list of health benefits. It can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is the cause of countless ailments including migraines and weight gain. Ginger Tea can also help heal your respiratory system and eliminate some of the congestion associated with the common cold. Ginger Tea is great for your heart and encourages blood circulation in the body as well as lowers bad cholesterol.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba Tea is an ancient remedy for several ailments. Like Ginger Tea, it increases blood circulation and can help you maintain a healthy heart and mind. Ginkgo Biloba can also ease headaches and cramps. Ginkgo Biloba helps you rid your body of harmful toxins and may help people cope with depression and anxiety, acting as a natural and organic mood stabilizer.
What Does Herbal Tea Taste Like?
There are countless varieties of herbal tea, and each will contain a unique flavor profile. Herbal teas cover a wide spectrum of flavors, and these flavors can vary widely depending on the ingredients used to make the tea. Below are three of the major herbal tea flavor profiles.
Sweet Teas
Sweet herbal teas are typically those made from fruit or berries. Some flower teas may also be quite sweet, although the florals add an aromatic hint to the flavor. Full Leaf Tea Co.’s sweet herbal teas include our Fruit Blend, Organic Rooibos, Organic Honey Bush, Sweet Cherry-Berry, Tropical Escape, and Very Berry Bunch.
Aromatic Teas
Aromatic teas smell as strongly as they taste. These teas have deep spice profiles and may smell of turmeric, cinnamon, or ginger. Our Organic Chai Tea is strongly aromatic with a complex flavor profile. Our citrus herbal teas also provides quite a pleasant aroma.
Bitter Teas
Plenty of herbal teas will have quite a bitter flavor profile. The good news is that bitter herbs usually have amazing healing powers, so even if these teas come on a little strong, they are still worth drinking. Some of Full Leaf Tea Co.’s bitter herbal teas include our Organic Chamomile and Organic Detox Tea.
How Much Caffeine Is In Herbal Tea?
All of the teas in our Herbal Tea Collection are caffeine free. You can enjoy our teas any time of the day or night, as they won’t keep you awake into the late hours. If you are looking for a tea with caffeine, you may want to try a Black or Green Tea. Most herbal teas, however, are caffeine-free. One exception to the rule is Yerba Mate. Yerba Mate is an herbal tea from South America that does contain caffeine.
How Do You Make Herbal Tea?
Grab one teaspoon of your favorite herbal tea and place it in one of our Natural Paper Drawstring Tea Bags or Full Leaf Signature Leaf Infusers. Steep the tea in boiling, filtered water for 5-7 minutes. Once the tea has steeped, you can remove the leaves and enjoy your beverage!
Herbal tea is unique in that it will not grow bitter if you steep it for too long. If you’d like to leave your tea in the water longer to achieve a stronger flavor, you can do so without risking a bitter or unpleasant beverage.
Herbal teas are also delicious when served cold. To make an herbal iced tea, you should add the loose leaf tea to a drawstring tea bag, infuser, or pot with a built-in infuser. Put the tea in cold, filtered water and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the tea to steep for an hour, the longer you allow it to sit, the stronger the flavor. The result will be a sweet and refreshing iced tea!
No matter how you make herbal tea, don’t forget that there are endless flavor options.
What Is Oolong?
Organic oolong tea is a traditional Chinese tea that falls somewhere between green tea and black tea in terms of oxidation and flavor. This partially oxidized tea is known for its unique taste, which can vary significantly depending on the processing methods used. Oolong tea leaves are often rolled or twisted, allowing the flavors to develop and infuse differently than other tea types.
The term "organic" indicates that the tea is grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, making it a healthier choice for consumers and the environment. Organic oolong tea is prized for its rich flavor profile, which can range from floral and fruity to earthy and robust. The tea is traditionally produced in the Fujian and Guangdong provinces of China, but it is also grown in Taiwan and other regions known for their tea cultivation.
Botanical Origins: Camellia sinensis
Scientifically known as Camellia sinensis, oolong tea originates from the same plant species that produces green, black, and white teas. Belonging to the Theaceae family, this evergreen shrub is native to East and South Asia, particularly regions of China and Taiwan. The tea plant is characterized by its glossy, dark green leaves, small white flowers, and the ability to grow up to 3 meters (10 feet) tall in its natural habitat, though it is typically pruned to a more manageable height for cultivation.
The genus Camellia contains over 100 species, with Camellia sinensis being the most economically significant. The species name 'sinensis' is derived from the Latin word for 'Chinese', reflecting its origins. What distinguishes oolong tea is its unique processing method, which involves partial oxidation, a technique that originated in the Fujian province of China during the Ming Dynasty. This careful oxidation process, ranging from 8% to 85%, gives oolong tea its distinctive flavor profile that sits between green and black teas, showcasing the remarkable versatility of the Camellia sinensis plant.
Oolong Tea Benefits
Oolong tea boasts incredible health benefits that are enhanced by its partial oxidation process. Its uses include lowering cholesterol, improving heart health, preventing cancer, enhancing mental alertness and reducing stress, and aiding in weight loss. Here are the benefits in detail:
Supports Weight Loss
Organic oolong tea has been associated with weight loss benefits due to its ability to boost metabolism and aid in fat burning. The polyphenols present in oolong tea help to enhance the process of lipolysis, breaking down stored fat in the body. Regular consumption of oolong tea can contribute to a healthy weight management routine, making it a popular choice for those looking to shed extra pounds.
Improves Heart Health
Drinking organic oolong tea can be beneficial for heart health. The antioxidants in oolong tea, such as catechins and flavonoids, help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases by lowering cholesterol levels and improving blood circulation. These compounds also prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, which is a key factor in the development of atherosclerosis.
Enhances Mental Alertness
The caffeine content in organic oolong tea provides a gentle energy boost that can improve mental alertness and concentration. Unlike the jittery effects often associated with coffee, the caffeine in oolong tea is released more slowly, providing sustained energy and focus. This makes it an ideal choice for those needing a mid-day pick-me-up without the crash.
Promotes Skin Health
The antioxidants in organic oolong tea can also have positive effects on your skin. These compounds help to fight free radicals that cause premature aging, leading to healthier, more youthful skin. Additionally, oolong tea can help to reduce inflammation and improve skin elasticity, making it a great addition to your skincare routine.
Aids in Digestion
Organic oolong tea can aid in digestion and promote gut health. The tea contains natural enzymes that help break down food more efficiently, preventing issues like bloating and indigestion. Drinking oolong tea after meals can support healthy digestion and improve overall gut function.
Supports Bone Health
Oolong tea has been shown to have a positive impact on bone health. The minerals and antioxidants in the tea help to increase bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Regular consumption of oolong tea can be beneficial, especially for older adults looking to maintain strong bones.
Boosts Immune System
The vitamins and antioxidants present in organic oolong tea can help to strengthen the immune system. These compounds support the body's natural defenses against infections and illnesses, helping you stay healthy year-round. Drinking oolong tea regularly can be a simple way to give your immune system a boost.
Reduces Stress
Organic oolong tea contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which has been shown to promote relaxation and reduce stress. This compound helps to balance the stimulating effects of caffeine, resulting in a calming effect that can improve mood and reduce anxiety. Enjoying a cup of oolong tea can be a great way to unwind after a long day.
What Does Oolong Tea Taste Like?
Organic oolong tea offers a unique and complex flavor profile that can vary greatly depending on the specific variety and processing methods. Generally, oolong tea has a rich, floral aroma with a taste that can range from sweet and fruity to creamy and nutty. The partial oxidation of the tea leaves results in a balanced flavor that combines the freshness of green tea with the depth of black tea.
Some oolong teas may have a more pronounced floral note, reminiscent of orchids or gardenias, while others may have a hint of fruitiness, like peaches or apricots. The roasting process can also impart a toasty, caramelized flavor, adding to the complexity of the tea.
History of Oolong
The history of oolong tea dates back to the Tang Dynasty in China, where it was first cultivated and enjoyed by the royal court. The tea gained popularity for its unique flavor profile and health benefits, becoming a staple in Chinese tea culture. Over the centuries, the methods of processing oolong tea have been refined, leading to the diverse range of oolong teas available today.
In the modern era, the demand for organic oolong tea has grown as consumers become more conscious of the environmental and health impacts of their food choices. Organic farming practices have been embraced by tea growers, ensuring that the traditional methods of oolong tea production are maintained while promoting sustainability.
Does Oolong Tea Have Caffeine?
Organic oolong tea contains a moderate amount of caffeine, typically between 30 to 50 milligrams per 8-ounce cup. This is less than black tea but more than green tea, making it a good choice for those looking for a moderate caffeine boost. The caffeine in oolong tea is released more slowly, providing sustained energy without the jitters or crash associated with coffee.
How Do You Steep Oolong Tea?
Add 1 tsp of pu-erh tea to an infuser. Let the tea steep for 3 to 5 minutes in 8 oz of boiling temperature filtered water. After the tea is done steeping, remove the tea leaves from the liquid and enjoy!
Where Can I Buy Oolong Tea?
Organic oolong tea can be found online or in stores! You can also shop our Organic Oolong tea here at Full Leaf Tea Company. We're USDA certified organic, and our products are vegan and free of GMOs. Feel free to try us out!
Are There Other Teas with Oolong?
Explore our diverse collection of tea blends and herbal infusions that feature the unique flavor and benefits of oolong. Whether you're looking to enhance your tea experience or enjoy the subtle nuances of oolong in combination with other herbs, we offer a variety of carefully crafted blends that showcase this remarkable tea. From soothing herbal mixes to energizing blends, our selection provides something for every palate and wellness goal.
What Is Pu-Erh?
Pu-Erh tea also commonly known as ‘Puer’, ‘Po Lei’, ‘Bolay’ tea and ‘Dark Tea’ or ‘Black Tea’ in China is a tea made in China.
Pu-Erh is made from the Camellia Sinensis tea, the same plant which is used to make green and black tea. Pu-Erh however; is fermented and oxidized which gives the tea a unique deep, earthy flavor. The fermentation of Pu-Erh even gives the tea an incredible shelf life and allows the tea to age well. Read below to learn more about the benefits, taste, and character of Pu-Erh tea!
Pu-Erh Tea Benefits
Pu-Erh tea has fantastic health benefits that increase through its fermentation process and age. Uses include lowering cholesterol, reducing blood pressure, preventing cancer, improving mental health and stress, and aiding weight loss. Here are the benefits in detail:
Antioxidants
Though Pu-Erh contains antioxidants, it’s less of an antioxidant powerhouse than green and black tea. Antioxidants prevent damage caused by free radicals, an unstable atom which damages cells – causing illness and aging.
Lowers Cholesterol
Pu-Erh is widely known to aid in lowering cholesterol levels. A 2009 study by Experimental Gerontology shows Pu-Erh was able to help lower LDL while raising HDL. The study showed consuming Pu-Erh tea can play a significant role in reducing the risk of heart disease.
Reduces Blood Pressure
The same antioxidants which can help prevent damage caused by free radicals can help protect the heart and blood vessels.
Fights Cancer
Pu-Erh tea has been shown to prevent tumor cells' growth, and though research has been conducted on the tea, its properties are still relatively unknown.
Improves Mental Alertness and Focus
Research conducted around Pu-Erh and its effect on the brain has shown the tea keeps the brain healthy and can improve alertness and focus while promoting brain health.
Reduces Stress
Though Pu-Erh contains caffeine, the tea doesn’t contain as much caffeine as other teas such as Yerba Mate or Matcha. Additionally, Pu-Erh tea’s anti-inflammatory properties aid in relaxation while reducing aches and pains.
Aids In Weight Loss
Pu-Erh can help promote weight loss! A study showed animals with induced obesity given Pu-Erh extract had significantly reduced total body weight compared to their counterparts, which had not received the extract.
Improves Digestion
Pu-Erh has been shown to help balance the bacteria in your stomach and shows the age of Pu-Erh increases the effectiveness of digestion.
What Does Pu-Erh Tea Taste Like?
Don’t be turned off by pu-erh’s fish smell, quality pu-erh has a deep, rich, and earthy flavor that often appeals to coffee drinkers while bad pu-erh tastes muddy or moldy. This deep, rich flavor is balanced with our Organic Cocoa, Organic Cocoa Mint, and Chai Pu-Erh blends.
Pu-Erh is traditionally consumed in China and Hong Kong after a large or greasy meal due to its widely known flavor and health benefits.
History of Pu-Erh
Pu-erh dates back to the Tang Dynasty and was frequently traded across China’s borders, most often with Tibet as Tibet’s elevation did not allow tea crops to grow. Pu-erh got its name from the city the tea was most frequently traded in (Pu’er City).
The trip to Tibet took several months during which the tea was often exposed to moisture. Combined with bacteria on the leaves, this allowed the tea to ferment. It didn’t take long for people to discover that pu-erh, which had been aged for longer, tasted better.
As the demand in the late 1900s grew, a more efficient method of fermenting tea became popularized. This method, called “wòduī,” allowed the tea to ferment in a matter of months rather than years. Pu-erh connoisseurs often age their tea for years to achieve their ideal flavor profile.
Does Pu-Erh Tea Have Caffeine?
Pu-Erh tea is one of the most caffeinated teas you can drink. Depending on how strong the tea is, there can be 70mg of caffeine per 8 oz of tea. The average cup of coffee can have around 100mg of caffeine. However, the longer pu-erh ages, the less caffeine it contains. If you’re looking for tea packed with caffeine, we recommend yerba mate, matcha, or black tea!
How Do You Steep Pu-Erh Tea?
Add 1 tsp of pu-erh tea to an infuser. Let the tea steep for 5 to 7 minutes in 8 oz of boiling temperature filtered water. After the tea is done steeping, remove the tea leaves from the liquid and enjoy!
Where Can I Buy Pu-Erh Tea?
Pu-Erh tea can be found online! Shameless plug: but as of writing this, we sell 6 different types of pu-erh teas. We’re USDA certified organic, and our products are vegan and free of GMO’s. To top it all off, we have over 10,000 positive reviews, so feel free to try us out!
Where Can I Buy Teas with Pu-Erh?
management, enhances oral health, and strengthens the immune system. Here are the benefits in detail:
What Is Green Tea?
Green tea is a type of tea that is made from Camellia sinensis leaves and buds that have not undergone the same withering and oxidation process used to make oolong and black tea. Originating in China, green tea has become a popular beverage worldwide, known for its refreshing taste and numerous health benefits. Unlike black tea, which is fully oxidized, green tea is unoxidized, which helps preserve its rich concentration of antioxidants and nutrients.
Green tea's production involves a process of steaming or pan-firing the leaves to halt oxidation, preserving the natural green color and fresh, grassy flavor. This method of processing results in a tea that retains more polyphenols, catechins, and other beneficial compounds than its oxidized counterparts.
Green tea is rich in antioxidants that combat free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. It aids in weight management, enhances brain function, improves heart and oral health, reduces inflammation, regulates blood sugar levels, and promotes skin health. Scroll to read about them in detail ⬇️
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Green tea is loaded with antioxidants, especially catechins, which help combat free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.
Weight Management
The catechins and caffeine in green tea can boost metabolism and increase fat oxidation, aiding in weight management. Studies suggest that regular consumption of green tea can help reduce body fat, particularly in the abdominal area.
Heart Health
Regular consumption of green tea may improve cardiovascular health by lowering LDL cholesterol levels and improving blood vessel function, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Brain Function
Green tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that works with caffeine to enhance brain function, improving cognitive performance, alertness, and mood without causing jitters. L-theanine also promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
The polyphenols in green tea have strong anti-inflammatory properties, beneficial for reducing inflammation and improving overall health, particularly for conditions like arthritis.
Oral Health
Green tea can improve oral health due to its antibacterial and antiviral properties, which help reduce the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, lowering the risk of infections and promoting fresh breath.
Blood Sugar Regulation
Green tea may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, making it beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.
Skin Health
The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties of green tea can help improve skin health by reducing acne, protecting against sun damage, and slowing down the aging process.
What Does Green Tea Taste Like?
Green tea has a distinct flavor profile that can vary depending on its origin, processing method, and preparation. Generally, green tea offers a fresh, grassy, and slightly astringent taste with subtle sweet and vegetal notes. The flavor can range from mild and delicate to bold and robust, depending on the type of green tea and how it is brewed.
Some green teas, like Japanese matcha, have a rich, umami flavor due to the shading process used during cultivation, while Chinese green teas often have a more floral and sweet taste. The overall flavor of green tea is light and refreshing, making it a versatile beverage enjoyed by many.