If you have tasted black tea and green tea, now you want something not as robust as black tea and not vegetal as green tea. Then oolong tea can suit you the best. It is the rarest type of tea available in verities.
Oolong tea lies between black tea and green tea. It can hold the maltiness of black tea and the mildness of green tea. Although oolong is the least consumed tea form, it is delicious. The goodness of oolong tea is its benefit for health.
Before you opt for oolong tea, let’s know some more impressive facts about oolong.
What is oolong tea?
Delicate in flavour oolong tea is a traditional Chinese drink, which is also called Wulong tea. Earlier it was only popular in Asian countries. But nowadays, oolong is widely consumed in many countries, including Europe. It comes from the Camellia Sinensis plant, the same base plant of black and green tea.
The main difference between other teas and oolong tea is the oxidization level. It is oxidized under the sun before curling and twisting. Producers determine how much they want to oxidize the oolong tea. It can range between 8% to 85%. The level of oxidization determines the oolong tea’s colour, form and flavour. The shape of leaves can be varied, tightly rolled balled or loose leaves.
The oolong goes under different processing methods which determine its colour. It can be dark green, golden pale yellow or brown. No matter what hue it has, it is calming and pleasing.
Try our oolong tea blended with roses.
What is the flavour (taste) of oolong tea?
There is not a particular taste of oolong tea that I can define. It retains various flavours and hues because oolong is oxidized at a different level and is available in different types.
Less oxidized light oolong tea tastes a little similar to green tea: vegetal and grassy. But you will also find a mildly sweet note while sipping it. Light oolong is rich and smooth with a floral aroma.
More oxidized oolong is closer to the black tea. It gives a savoury taste, whereas mild oxidized has a fruity touch. In all varieties of oolong, you will get a unique taste. One interesting fact is that the origin and the atmosphere in which it grows also influence the flavour of this tea.
Benefits of Oolong tea
Oolong tea is a rich source of nutrients present in black tea and green tea. So if you want to reap the benefits of both teas in one, then give it a try.
Let’s know what health benefits oolong tea can bring for us.
Helps in weight loss
Women consume green tea to maintain their body weight and obviously to look slim and young. The same properties retain oolong tea too. It can regulate the functioning of the metabolism and consequently reduce body fat.
It has been shown that tea contains some bioactive compounds that can manage weight. The caffeine found in oolong tea is another substance that helps you lose body fat. Therefore, other adequate measures and oolong tea may shed extra weight and make you look slim.
Take care of your heart health
Oolong tea has an abundance of antioxidants that link to improving heart health. It regulates the blood pressure and cholesterol level, the underlying cause of heart issues, and save you from cardiac arrest. Some studies have also proven that regular consumption of a certain amount of oolong help people to lower the risk of heart issues.
Immunity booster
Oolong tea may prove as an immunity booster for you. Its antioxidants property strengthens the immune system and also boosts it. You can also keep yourself away from viral infections as the tea contains anti-bacterial properties.
Give you a sound sleep and improve your mental health
Many of you may face a lack of sleep. Sipping this tea might improve your sleep quality and let you sleep easily.
Besides, oolong tea is effective for optimal brain functioning. The amino acid in tea improves brain attention, sharpen memory and reduce anxiety. And the caffeine in tea releases dopamine that can revamp your mood and reduce stress.
Make your bones and teeth stronger
You may wonder, but the consumption of oolong tea can indeed make your teeth stronger. This tea protects your teeth from acids and prevents plaque.
Not only teeth, but oolong tea can also make the bones more powerful. It contains calcium and magnesium, which increases bone density. Also, polyphenols in tea grow bone mass and keep them strong. Robust bones will save you from the risk of bone injury like a fracture.
Take care of the skin
Beautiful young-looking skin is on the wish list of everyone. Antioxidants are a boon for nourishing the skin and diminishing its problems. As this tea has antioxidants, it may heal the acne, wrinkles and dullness of skin. Moreover, some other signing of ageing also gets reduced with drinking oolong.
Some people face the problem of Eczema, which happens due to some allergies and skin sensitivity. A study revealed that drinking oolong helped people alleviate this issue.
Nutritional value of oolong tea
Oolong tea contains the nutrition of both black tea and green tea. It contains Vitamins, Minerals, Magnesium, Antioxidants like polyphenol, Potassium, Amino acids, and Caffeine.
How to store oolong tea
Always keep the tea properly in a cool and dark place in an airtight container. Try to keep it away from moisture and light. The flavour of oolong tea can be spoiled if you keep it with other pantry items like coffee, spices and tea. So, store it away from these food items.
Bottom line
Oolong tea is a great option to try. But its benefits can vary as per its quantity and type. The health benefits of it may also differ for each person. We do not recommend it to use for treating any illness.