Tea has long been considered a potent medicine in Asian communities. And thanks to the variety, there are various teas for certain ailments. That being said, many teas carry the same benefits. Oolong tea is famous thanks to its delicious taste. It also has a crucial role in preventing sickness. Though similar to black leaves, Oolong falls into its own category.
What Is Oolong Tea?
Oolong tea is known as a traditional Chinese tea that comes from the fermented Camellia Sinensis plant. Though it is similar to green and black tea, it has its own distinct brew and packs a unique aroma.
The flavor is due to several factors, but it carries a mild earthy tang different from the taste of black tea leaves. In fact, its popularity has seen it introduced to candle scents and perfumes.
5 Benefits of Organic Oolong Tea
It Reduces the Risk of Certain Conditions
The health benefits of tea have long been studied in science. Oolong tea can also play a significant role in your body’s immunity, preventing long-term diseases and organ issues. Incorporating loose-leaf Oolong teas into your diet has proven to substantially reduce body toxins, help fight common colds and illnesses, and improve organ functionality.
Heart diseases, cancers, and kidney issues are just some of the conditions combated by organic Oolong. So, Oolong can help reduce the symptoms of a disease or health condition.
It Speeds Up Weight Loss
Green teas are often recommended for weight loss, but it is hard to enjoy them if you are not a fan. If you need an alternative, Oolong teas may be the right choice for you! The caffeine in loose-leaf Oolong teas can speed up weight loss because it dulls hunger cues and satiates cravings, as most water-based beverages do.
Adding Oolong to your diet can expedite weight loss by boosting your metabolism. A type of tea like Oolong further helps your metabolism. It aids the body’s ability to break down and absorb nutrients.
It Gives the Skin a Better Appearance
Another reason to add Oolong to your healthy lifestyle is that it improves the appearance of your skin. It contains antioxidants and trace minerals like calcium and potassium, as well as vitamins that clear toxins and boost red blood cell production. This, in turn, assists the skin by improving its elasticity while reducing spots and blemishes.
It Strengthens Hair, Nails, and Teeth
Tea leaves also play a role in hair and nail care. Oolong’s loose leaves can encourage hair growth, strengthen the strands, and prevent breakage. Additionally, Oolong helps make strong nail cuticles, reducing damage to them.
Oolong tea also contains fluoride, a mineral that is crucial to dental health. A cup a day may help keep your teeth and oral hygiene in top shape between visits to the dentist.
It Reduces Stress and Increases Focus
Oolong tea has the rare ability to alleviate signs of stress and anxiety. It also contributes to brain health. It contains GABA amino acids, which act as neurotransmitters to dull excitability in the brain, thus allowing calmness and relaxation. For people suffering from high blood pressure, Oolong can moderate it.
While Oolong can improve calmness, it can also increase your concentration levels thanks to its ingredient, ECGC, a special antioxidant. This may, in the long run, reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
How to Brew the Perfect Cup of Oolong Tea
Tea is an easy beverage to make, but mistakes can alter the quality of your drink, thus ruining your experience. To help you make the best cup of Oolong, we’ve written up a guide to help you out.
- Place your leaves in your favorite mug. A teaspoon or two of loose leaves should be enough for 100 ml of water.
- Pour hot (boiled) water over the leaves up to the desired level.
- Steep for 2 to 3 minutes. This ensures all the flavor is drawn from the leaves. It’s important to note that the longer you steep, the stronger the taste of caffeine is as well.
- You can choose to remove the tea leaves. For stronger brews, many prefer to keep them in.
- Add sugar, honey, or milk. Or you can take it plain!
FAQs
1. Is Oolong tea healthier than black tea?
Depending on your personal health goals, Oolong may provide certain health benefits that black tea does not. However, that does not make either healthier than the other. Both teas help regulate the body’s immune system and organ functionality. Additionally, both are proven to be effective for weight loss.
2. Is it safe to drink Oolong tea every day?
Unless advised otherwise by your doctor, Oolong tea can be consumed daily. Some tea enthusiasts can even have it twice a day! It is important to note that Oolong contains caffeine, and while it is harmless in trace amounts, it may affect your quality of sleep, especially if you are not typically a caffeine drinker.
3. Can I add milk to my Oolong tea?
Avid tea lovers tend to take their tea plain to preserve the natural flavor and aroma of the drink. And extras in Oolong do alter the taste. However, adding milk, sugar, or honey to Oolong tea is perfectly fine because the beverage should be enjoyable to you. Some tea drinkers, particularly those new to it, may find it tastier with sweetness or dairy. You can take your tea however you prefer.
Conclusion
In summary, Oolong provides many benefits. Not only is it a tasty hot beverage, but it does wonders for the body, too. It helps keep your immune system optimal, helping it fight common colds and other serious organ conditions. In addition, it has remarkable effects on your skin and hair to improve your appearance. Drinking Oolong tea regularly can further help you lose a few pounds, helping you look and feel your best!