OOLONG TEA
OOLONG IS THE MOST DIVERSE TEA TYPE
A tea that is oxidized between 15% and 80% is considered an oolong. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that happens in the tea leaf at a molecular level. Oxidation happens naturally after a leaf is picked and can be sped up by damaging the leaf somehow- rolling and massaging are two common techniques. The more a leaf is oxidized, the darker it becomes.
Oolongs are commonly shaped in one of two ways:
1. Twisted into long thin strands
2. Rolled into tight little balls
This tea is predominantly grown in China and Taiwan.
HOW IT'S MADE
Learn how oolong tea is harvested and processed from Don at Mei Leaf.
Chinese Oolongs
The highest quality Chinese oolongs are grown in the Wu Yi mountains in the northern part of Fujian province. The teas from this area are known as "cliff teas." The Wu Yi mountain terroir is unique for a number of reasons that all influence teas produced on its land:
LIMESTONE. The rocky limestone provides a mineral-dense soil that the tea thrives on.
MIST. The misty weather in combination with the mountainous altitude slows the growth of the tea, which is very good for tea flavor.
VEGETATION. There is a lot of rich vegetation in this area. The surrounding plants lend nutrients and flavors to their neighboring tea plants.
Taiwanese Oolongs
Taiwan is also known as Formosa, or "beautiful island." This beautiful island has a central mountainous region where tea plants thrive and yield wonderful oolong teas.
The mountainous region has rich soil and a subtropical climate that offers humid cool weather. Oolongs from Taiwan have fruity and floral flavors- apricot and orchid notes are a couple that may manifest in good quality teas from the region.
THE HEALTH BENEFITS*
Like other types of teas, oolongs have lots of antioxidants, which fight cancerous cells. In addition to this health benefit, here are some that are unique to oolongs:
1. Anti-inflammatory: oolongs help with inflammation and skin rashes.
2. Healthy bones and teeth: oolong prevents tooth decay and encourages strong bones as we age.
3. Obesity: there are enzymes that inhibit the growth of fat cells in our bodies and oolong teas support this enzymatic activity.
You'll notice that these health benefits are preventive. The most powerful way to take control of your health is to avoid illness, not just manage it when you're sick.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.