Breaking It Down: Types of Tea, Part 3 - Oolong Tea
Part 3: Oolong Tea
Greetings Tea Lovers and Students of the Way of Tea.
I, Master Amanzi, prompted by one of my newest apprentices, have elected to briefly describe the differences between the different kinds of tea. While most have an understanding of the difference between iced tea and hot tea, or why to use loose tea rather than a tea bag, few understand the difference between a white tea and a black tea, for example.
I have already told you a bit about white tea and green tea. Today, let me explain to you a little bit about oolong tea.
Oolong tea starts out as leaves of the camellia sinensis plant, just like the white and green teas. The difference is that after being picked, oolong tea leaves are immediately dried by a process called “withering.” Then they are they are broken and rolled, which releases the juices inside the leaves increases the amount of oxidation they receive. This oxidation gives it a stronger, bolder, earthy flavor—though with oolong tea the taste can vary quite a lot, depending on just how much oxidation it received.
Oolong has about twice as much caffeine as green tea, but still has only about 10% as much as a cup of coffee, making it a healthy alternative. While not as packed full of antioxidants as white tea or green tea, it is still has plenty of positive health benefits, researchers say. It can also aid in weight loss and lower cholesterol.
For those that prefer a stronger tea, but don’t want too much caffeine, oolong tea makes a lot of sense.
Next time, I shall tell you about black tea. I hope you will learn much from my wisdom, and continue down the Path to the Perfect Pot of Tea.
Learn More about the Other Types of Tea:
White Tea
Green Tea
Black Tea
Rooibos Tea
Yerba Mate Tea
Herbal Tea
Tags: black tea, caffeine, Informational, loose tea, Oolong Tea, oolong tea, oxidation, tea info, tea leaves, Tea Types
