The popularity of traditional tea is one that is not going to go away anytime soon. This is because of the health benefits associated with it and the different types available for consumers to choose from. Oolong tea and black tea are ranked among the popular options and while they have distinct characteristics, they offer almost the same health benefits. Some of the things you did not know include the following:
They originate from the tea plant Camellia sinensis. However, they have to go through fermentation and processing and this is what determines what they become in the end. The leaves have to be plucked and bruised in order to ensure they are broken. This is for the purpose releasing oil and they can be processed anywhere from 10% to 70% depending in the variety. While this is the case, it is ideal to note that Oolong goes through the broadest fermentation process. They contain polyphenols which aid in weight loss. It is for this reason that they have been used for thousands of years and continue to be used in diet plans. Both are seen as great calorie burners. Oolong is grown in 2 main countries which include Taiwan and China. China variety is known to deliver a brand that is darker and with a higher woody taste while the Taiwanese delivers a lighter and floral taste brew. Though there are several varieties to choose from, each is known to offer the consumer full flavor, distinct characteristics and several health benefits. Some of these health benefits include decreasing blood pressure levels, strengthening of the immune system, fighting of free radicals, prevention of tumor growth and fighting free radicals. For these to be well prepared, it is advisable to use whole leaves. This is for the purpose of ensuring that it provides superior aroma and the benefits stated above.
The importance of preparing this type of tradition tea using whole leaves is one that cannot be overly stressed and especially, if you intend to have a flavorsome and wonderful cup.
Black Tea
This is allowed to oxidize in order to ripen and as such, it creates a rich, deep and robust flavor. The uniqueness of this varies in accordance to the grower’s skill and knowledge. It is for this reason that when buying the same, you need to consider the expertise of the grower and whether it has all the features that make it an appealing choice.
Oolong Tea
This falls in between black tea and green tea and is also influenced by the duration the leaves are left to oxidize. There are two terms used to describe this and these include amber and green though amber oxidizes at a quicker pace.
