Drinking Tea

Often, when drinking tea, each infusion may taste different, either too strong or too weak. Why is this? Most likely, it's due to an inaccurate amount of tea used. So, how much tea should you use exactly? How Much Tea Should You Use When Brewing? For a 110ml gaiwan, the tea amount is typically between 3 to 8 grams, varying based on the type of tea and personal preference. Green tea or Yellow tea: Use a ratio of 1:50, which means about 3 grams of tea. White tea: Use a ratio of 1:20, requiring 5 grams of tea. Black tea: Use a ratio of 1:20, with 5 grams of tea. Wuyi rock tea: Use enough tea to fill about 1/3 of the gaiwan, which is 8 grams. Pu'er tea: Use a ratio of 1:15, which is 7 grams of tea. Scented tea: Use a ratio of 1:50, approximately 3 grams of tea. Brewing tea is a process of gaining experience and becoming more skilled. With more experience, you won't follow rigid rules but rather develop a more relaxed approach to drinking tea. After some practice, you'll find the perfect amount of tea that suits your taste. If you prefer a…

Many teas are not suitable for direct steeping in boiling water. For example, green tea, young or lightly aged raw Pu'er, black tea, and even oolong tea. Teas that are suitable for steeping tend to be coarser and older, such as dark teas or white teas that have been aged longer. If we consider steeping a tea for an entire night or day and it still isn’t bitter or astringent, and is even better than when brewed, the likely candidate would be old Liubao tea. Old Liubao tea can be brewed, steeped, or boiled. It is highly cost-effective, easy to store, beneficial to health, and most importantly, suitable for the majority of people's constitutions. This makes it all the more remarkable. This is also why I have come to appreciate and endorse Liubao tea more and more. The longer I spend in Wuzhou, Guangxi, and Liubao Town, the more I fall in love with Liubao tea, whether it’s made using traditional methods yielding the “Liubao character,” or modern processes producing rich, dark, aged flavors. I am increasingly influenced by the local custom of drinking Liubao tea here. In the mountains of Liubao Town, laborers often drink fresh tea. Whether it’s…

Region-specific, naturally processed, and uniquely beneficial—these are the common perceptions of Fuding White Tea. There is a certain art to brewing Fuding White Tea, and the method can vary depending on the type of white tea. Choosing the most suitable brewing method will result in an even more enjoyable cup of white tea.Types of Fuding White Tea Silver Needle (Bai Hao Yin Zhen) Silver Needle: Silver Needle is the pinnacle of white teas. It is made from the buds of white tea plants, named for its plump, silvery-white covered buds that stand straight like needles and shine with a silver hue. When brewed, the tea liquor is clear and apricot-yellow, with a strong presence of downy aroma, a sweet fragrance, and a fresh, sweet taste that refreshes the heart and lungs. The leaves stand upright in the cup, full and pleasing to the eye. White Peony (Bai Mudan) White Peony: White Peony is made from the first or second leaf and bud of the tea plant. It gets its name because the green leaves with silver-white down resemble flowers, and when brewed, the green leaves cradle the tender buds, much like a flower bud about to open. The finished product…

Sheng (raw) Pu'er tea is made by naturally aging freshly picked tea leaves, a product of sun-dried tea that has not undergone the process of wet-piling fermentation. It is characterized by its bitterness that turns into a sweet aftertaste and its astringency that lingers, creating an endless charm. While much discussion often surrounds the benefits of ripe Pu'er tea, let's take a closer look at the wonders of raw Pu'er: 1. The Anti-Aging Secret of Beauties Sheng Pu'er tea shares many similarities with green tea, notably its antioxidant properties. In the minds of most people, antioxidants are synonymous with anti-aging. But what causes aging in the first place? It's all down to free radicals. The oxygen we inhale combines with fats and sugars in our bodies to produce energy, which fuels our daily activities. However, during this process, a small portion of oxygen transforms into free radicals, also known as oxidants. Remember from junior high chemistry that these can cause metals to rust? Imagine these free radicals running rampant through your body over time, causing it to "rust." Sheng Pu'er tea acts like a law enforcer, using its effective chemical components and various vitamins to neutralize these pesky free radicals.…

"Tea is a great health food, but it has certain food contraindications. If tea is improperly paired with other foods, it can create incompatibilities and generate toxic substances that can be harmful to human health! 1. Tea and Mutton Although eating mutton occasionally is greatly beneficial to the body, when you eat mutton and drink tea, the abundant protein in the mutton can combine with the tannic acid in the tea, leading to constipation. 2. Tea and Sugar Tea is bitter and cold in nature; the purpose of drinking tea is to stimulate the secretion of digestive juices to enhance digestive function and also to cool heat and detoxify. If sugar is added to the tea, it will inhibit this function. 3. Tea and Eggs Boiling eggs in tea water, where the concentration of tea is high, means there is a greater amount of tannic acid in the tea. Tannic acid can turn proteins in food into indigestible solidified substances, affecting the body's absorption and utilization of proteins. 4. Tea and Alcohol After drinking alcohol, drinking tea can cause the theophylline in tea to have a diuretic effect. At this time, acetaldehyde produced from alcohol metabolism may not yet be…

Autumn is a season of gradually decreasing temperatures and increasing day-night temperature differences. Days are sunny, while nights become progressively colder. This climate has a significant impact on the human body. As temperatures drop, our metabolism slows down, and the immune system becomes relatively weaker, making us more susceptible to infections from external pathogens. Additionally, cold weather can cause dry skin and increase the likelihood of catching a cold. During this transition from autumn to winter, when cold invades, it's also the best time to drink tea. Drinking more tea in late autumn not only helps us adapt to changes in temperature but also offers numerous health benefits. Let's delve into why we should drink more tea during the autumn and winter seasons, and perhaps discover which type of tea you might prefer. What Kinds of Tea Should You Drink in Autumn? 1. Aged Teas: Pu'er, White Tea, Dark Tea ① Aged teas have a gentle nature and ample tea energy, helping the body expel dampness through sweating. Therefore, when drinking aged teas, use large cups or bowls, and always consume them hot. ② The microorganisms and beneficial bacteria in aged teas act as regulators for the digestive tract. ③…

After the Summer Solstice, temperatures will gradually rise over the next two months, making it the hottest time of the year. In this era where everyone is talking about "living healthily," drinking tea is the right way to beat the heat! With tea, different types of tea have different methods of production and distinct characteristics. What kinds of tea should one drink in different seasons? And what kind of teapot goes well with them? Tea nurtures the teapot, and the teapot nurtures the tea. Sandstone nurtures people, and people nurture sandstone. √ The Mysteries of Health Benefits of Purple Clay Teapots Purple clay consists of multiple minerals, including illite, kaolin, quartz, mica chips, iron, and other trace elements essential to the human body. It also has a dual-pore structure, making it suitable for brewing tea. Therefore, many tea enthusiasts now prefer purple clay teapots as their choice of tea utensils. 1. White Tea White tea is known for its "one-year tea, three-year medicine, seven-year treasure" reputation. Drinking some aged white tea can help clear heat and fire, generate saliva, and relieve cough. Drinking white tea helps to cool down, eliminate heat, and reduce inflammation, making it the best companion for…

Many people enjoy drinking tea in their daily lives. Drinking tea not only promotes health and wellbeing but can also help treat various ailments. However, there are many types of tea, and it's important to choose the right one according to one’s constitution, as each type has different effects on the body. Who Should Drink Tea More Often? First, those with high levels of dampness in their bodies. People with a cold and deficient constitution often have cold hands and feet, poor circulation, and during the cold seasons of autumn and winter, they may experience a drop in immunity and slower metabolism. In such cases, a warm and nourishing cup of tea can help promote blood circulation throughout the body and defend against the cold. Those with high levels of dampness in their bodies often feel lethargic, fatigued, have poor appetite, and cold hands and feet. Many of these individuals have poor spleen and stomach function, while some have a cold and deficient constitution. For them, aged Pu'er or black tea, which are warming and beneficial for the stomach, should be chosen to care for their health. These teas can effectively promote qi flow and expel dampness. Additionally, the diuretic…

Nowadays, more and more people enjoy collecting Yixing teapots, not only for the rich aroma they bring to tea but also for their unique aesthetic appeal and artistic enjoyment. One aspect that sets Yixing teapots apart from other tea wares is their ability to become more beautiful with use and care. For Yixing beginners, most believe that a teapot is merely for drinking tea and appreciation, and does not fall under the category of cultural playthings. This is actually a misconception. In a broader sense, Yixing teapots do belong in the realm of cultural playthings. Many tea enthusiasts enjoy sipping tea while playing with small Yixing teapots. Here are some tips for nurturing your Yixing teapot. TIP 1: Keep it clean We consistently emphasize cleanliness for any tea ware, as dirt is the "biggest enemy" of Yixing teapots. Once a cultural plaything becomes dirty, it is often irreparable. Keeping your teapot clean and hygienic is therefore the first important step in nurturing it properly. A newly purchased Yixing teapot should be thoroughly cleaned. Used teapots should also be kept clean inside, free of any residual tea stains. Develop the habit of cleaning your teapot after each use. When not in…

Pu'er tea is a popular type of tea in China. From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, Pu'er tea has a relatively gentle nature and can effectively clear damp heat from the liver and gallbladder. Drinking Pu'er tea regularly can help alleviate irritability and may relieve symptoms of certain skin conditions like eczema or dermatitis. Since Pu'er tea can clear liver fire, it can also help with clinical symptoms such as bad breath and dry mouth. From an experimental standpoint, Pu'er tea contains potent antioxidants that can eliminate free radicals and reduce the content of unsaturated fatty acids, thereby decreasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The benefits and effects of Pu'er tea One: Nourishing and protecting the stomach Modern research confirms that drinking aged Pu'er tea or ripe Pu'er tea in moderation can warm the stomach. This indicates that Pu'er tea has high medicinal value. Scientific studies show that, in addition to sharing common functions with other teas, modern research confirms that Pu'er tea has more prominent therapeutic effects in the following areas: nourishing and protecting the stomach. Under appropriate concentration, drinking mild Pu'er tea does not stimulate the stomach. The viscous, smooth, and rich Pu'er tea forms a protective layer…

Choosing a teapot based on the tea you intend to brew involves continuous exploration and practice. It requires comparing and analyzing during the process of brewing, so that the teapot complements the tea and the tea nurtures the teapot, achieving a harmonious balance. Once a purple clay teapot has been well-maintained, Professor Shen from China Porcelain Library suggests trying it out with different types of teas, then deciding which type of tea best suits the pot based on personal experience. After that, stick to using the pot for that specific type of tea, ensuring "exclusive use for a specific purpose." In the process of selecting a teapot for tea or vice versa, one can appreciate the subtleties of "drinking tea with intention." As more people develop an understanding of teapots, the return to a scholarly ambiance has become the current theme. Many are seeking environments imbued with an antique flavor, simply because the world moves too fast and they have less and less time for themselves. Purple clay teaware offers the conditions necessary to satisfy this desire. Many traditional teapot shapes that have been passed down through history, such as the Shi Piao, Jing Lan, Seng Mao, Tuiqiu, Qiduan, Huling,…

Somehow, over time, I have come to associate my father's love with a strong tea aroma. My father loved his tea and for years he has been drinking homemade wild vegetable tea. When spring warms the earth and revives the land, the bitter vegetables and dandelions in the hills around our hometown poke through the soil with fresh new greens. Father would rush to gather them before Qingming Festival, as they would start blooming and lose their fresh, fragrant flavor after that. Every day, he would clean and dry the gathered bitter vegetables and dandelions, then gently stir-fry them over a low flame to make bitter vegetable tea. The tea carries a faintly bitter taste and the fresh scent of earth. In the height of summer, when stone bamboo flowers are at their most charming, father would be busy gathering stone bamboo growing in the crevices of cliffs. He would carefully select them to make stone bamboo tea. During the hot summer days, father would sit under the parasol tree in the yard, sipping stone bamboo tea with its emerald color and rich fragrance, while idly fanning himself with a palm leaf fan. Not only did father make tea in…

The air is crisp and dry in autumn, a season when lungs are particularly vulnerable. Drinking tea properly at this time can help alleviate the dryness of the season and moisturize the lungs. A "weather map" has been developed for tea drinking, offering guidance tailored to different individuals based on the unique properties of various teas. Green Tea Green tea is unfermented. Teas like Longjing, Biluochun, and Sparrow's Tongue all belong to this category. Characteristics: Clear green liquor and leaves. Green tea is commonly believed to have effects such as lowering blood lipids, reducing blood pressure, and aiding weight loss. Regular smokers may benefit from drinking green tea, which can mitigate the harmful effects of nicotine. White Tea White tea is a slightly fermented tea. Pai Mu Tan (White Peony), Gongmei (Tribute Eyebrow), and Bai Hao Yinzhen (Silver Needle) are all examples of white tea. There is a folk saying that white tea is "a year's tea, three years' medicine, and seven years' treasure." White tea possesses excellent health benefits. In addition to the common nutrients found in other teas, it contains essential active enzymes. Medical studies have shown that regular consumption of white tea can significantly increase the activity…

Often, when others are nurturing their pots, especially when they steep tea in the pot at night, they like to leave the tea leaves and strong tea broth in the pot overnight. They think this accelerates the formation of a patina, making the process of nurturing the pot more efficient and effortless, with tangible results. However, this is not the case. When nurturing a pot, the effect only occurs when the tea broth is hot and the pot itself is warm. Firstly, can tea leaves and tea be left overnight in a purple clay pot? The answer is no. When nurturing a pot, the effect only occurs when the tea broth is hot and the pot itself is warm. The tea broth, along with the steam, penetrates the pores of the pot, and the tea oils seep through the surface of the pot. After repeated wiping with a tea cloth, a patina forms. The tea leaves and tea broth left overnight in the pot lose their effectiveness once they cool down. Leaving tea leaves and tea broth in the pot overnight for extended periods, especially during hot summer nights, can easily lead to the growth of harmful substances inside the…

Throughout history, human dietary habits have adapted to the local environment and climate. For instance, in many southern regions with high humidity, people tend to favor spicy foods, such as in Hunan, Hubei, and Sichuan provinces. However, there is one particularly humid area—Guangdong—where Cantonese cuisine rarely features spiciness. So, what do the people of Guangdong rely on for spleen tonification and dampness removal? Finally, we discovered their health-preserving secret—Chenpi (aged tangerine peel). The traditional approach of the Cantonese is to steep Chenpi in water or use it in soups, which helps to promote qi movement, eliminate dampness, and transform phlegm. This method is truly excellent, simple yet balanced, with noticeable effects. Tea enthusiasts who enjoy drinking tea and making soups might want to learn more about this. Chenpi is versatile; here are some combinations: Chenpi has multiple uses: it can be consumed alone, steeped in tea, used in medicine, and added to dishes. However, some tea enthusiasts may be unsure about how best to combine it. Chenpi can complement tonifying herbs to nourish deficiencies, work synergistically with descending herbs, and produce different effects when paired with various foods. 1. Ginger: Most households likely have ginger on hand. Chenpi ginger tea…

You should try to avoid drinking tea in the evening. Tea contains a relatively high amount of polyphenols and caffeine, which can stimulate the central nervous system. If you drink tea in the evening, it may increase the activity of brain cells, causing the central nervous system to become excited and making it difficult to fall asleep. Can I Drink Tea in the Evening? Generally, you shouldn't drink tea in the evening, as the polyphenols in tea can cause excitement in the central nervous system, affecting sleep quality. However, some people may need to stay up late for various reasons and can drink tea in moderation, which can help them stay alert. Drinking tea in moderation can help keep you alert and promote blood circulation in the body. However, the polyphenols in tea can stimulate the central nervous system, potentially affecting sleep quality. In particular, those with poor sleep quality may experience insomnia after drinking tea in the evening, which can interfere with the rest of the brain and cause feelings of fatigue. Therefore, people with poor sleep quality or difficulty falling asleep are not recommended to drink tea. However, due to differences in work schedules, some people may need…

For many tea enthusiasts, throughout the year and especially during autumn and winter, one indispensable type of tea is likely black tea. Black tea has a gentle nature and is rich in proteins and sugars, warming the body and soothing the spirit. In the category of gongfu black teas, Yunnan black tea, commonly known as Dian Hong, stands out. Dian Hong is made from the large-leaf tea trees native to Yunnan, resulting in a tea that is elegant in appearance and rich in flavor, with a fresh aroma and a robust taste. Compared to traditional small-leaf black teas from other regions, Dian Hong made from Yunnan's large-leaf variety offers a more substantial and rich flavor. Moreover, Dian Hong has been well-received in overseas markets, once playing a valuable role in financing the war effort by generating much-needed foreign currency. To this day, Dian Hong continues to enjoy a global reputation for its exceptional quality. So, how should Dian Hong be brewed for the best results? Teaware for Brewing Dian Hong The teaware used for brewing Dian Hong must be appropriate to complement the unique beauty of the tea while allowing its fresh and pleasant aroma to be fully released. When…

"Ten thousand poems in sixty years," Lu You was one of the foremost poets of the Song Dynasty. When it comes to tea poetry, he is an indispensable figure, standing as a splendid cultural milestone in the history of Chinese tea poetry. Lu You was born into a prominent family; both his parents were from influential clans. He received a fine education from a young age and took the imperial examination administered by the Ministry of Rites during the reign of Emperor Gaozong but was dismissed by Qin Hui. In middle age, he traveled to Shu (Sichuan), leading a military life, and in his later years, he retired to his hometown. Born in a Tea Region Lu You was born in Shanyin (present-day Shaoxing, Zhejiang), a region known for its tea culture. From a young age, he was immersed in the tea-drinking culture. Mount Kuaiji was famous for producing Rizhu tea, and Lu You had a particular fondness for his hometown's teas, with Rizhu tea being at the top, followed by olive tea and Dingkeng tea, all of which found their way into his poetic works. He spared no effort in praising his hometown's fine teas in his poetry. One…

Pu'er tea, due to its unique production process, is essentially a food product without an expiration date, much like wine. After a certain period of effective sealing, the tea undergoes natural fermentation. Over time, the quality and taste of Pu'er tea significantly improve. Therefore, the claim that Pu'er tea becomes more aromatic and enjoyable as it ages is entirely credible. As long as it's stored properly, older Pu'er tea becomes increasingly valuable. Is Pu'er Tea More Aromatic with Age? Generally speaking, Pu'er tea can be consumed immediately after production, but it has a rather strong flavor. As storage time increases, the taste becomes richer and smoother. Under specific storage conditions, Pu'er tea can be preserved for extended periods. During storage, Pu'er tea continues to ferment. Various components in the tea react with microorganisms through oxidation and polymerization, such as the slow reaction of polyphenols under the influence of enzymes to form fragrant compounds. The aroma evolves from a complex mix of scents to a single, rich aroma. The optimal storage time for raw Pu'er tea is 10 to 25 years, while for ripe Pu'er tea, it is 8 to 15 years. To achieve a rich flavor, it is recommended to…

It is well-known that drinking tea is beneficial for health, especially if one persists in the habit over a long period. The key to using tea for health preservation lies in grasping the best time to drink it. Drinking the right tea at the right time can produce twice the effect with half the effort. What is the best time to drink tea? Morning Tea In the morning, after a whole night's rest, the body has lost a significant amount of water, and the concentration of the blood increases. Drinking a cup of light tea not only replenishes the body's need for water quickly but also cleanses the intestines and stomach. It can lower blood pressure, dilute the blood, benefit health, and prevent and treat constipation. However, note that in the morning, do not drink strong tea; it should be lighter than usual. What to Drink in the Morning It is better to drink black tea in the morning as black tea can promote circulation in the body, dispel coldness from the body, and ensure adequate blood supply to the brain. After breakfast every day, you can drink a cup of black tea, possibly with milk. Note that you must…

In the long river of life, tea is more than just a drink to quench thirst; it embodies a philosophy of life, a bond of emotion, and a witness to the passage of time.From youthful exuberance to white-haired wisdom, tea always presents itself in different forms, integrating into every significant moment of our lives, offering us various insights and inspirations. In our youthful years, tea is the laughter at gatherings with friends, the silent strength before embarking on our dreams. At that time, tea is like youth itself, carrying the bitterness of first experiencing the world and the sweetness of boundless hope for the future. Around the tea table, there is unadulterated sincerity, the last carefree moments before the clash between dreams and reality. In middle age, tea becomes the medium for reuniting with old friends, a gentle comfort in the midst of weary life. In the steaming tea, we learn to savor the bittersweetness of life and understand the truth that “tea should be enjoyed while hot, live in the present.” In the aroma of tea, the sharp edges are softened by time, leaving behind a profound understanding and appreciation of life. In our forties, the tea table gains…

When drinking tea, we often easily feel the sweet aftertaste, but there's another sensation that is often overlooked – the salivation that accompanies the sweet aftertaste.There's a term used to describe good tea: "salivation upon entry." Another term is "sweet and saliva-inducing." In short, good tea is surely saliva-inducing. But how does one determine if a tea induces salivation upon entry? " This sensation of salivation refers to the spontaneous secretion of saliva under the tongue when tea is tasted in the mouth, creating a slightly sour yet sweet sensation. This then spreads to the cheeks and the surface of the tongue. Why is this so? This is because the tea polyphenols, sugars, amino acids, pectin, vitamins, and other substances in tea all have the effect of stimulating saliva production in the mouth. Moreover, the higher the content of these substances in a tea, generally the stronger and longer-lasting the salivation-inducing effect. This is why it's said that the better the tea, the more it induces salivation. There are several types of salivation. 01Salivation at the Cheeks When the inner lining of the mouth tastes the tea, the stimulation from the tea polyphenols causes the inner walls on both sides…

Basic Introduction to Shitai Selenium-Rich TeaSelenium-rich tea literally means "rich selenium tea." The term "rich" indicates that the soil content exceeds the average level, reaching the standard for being rich in selenium as determined by experts. Selenium is an essential element for the human body and is often referred to as the "king of anti-cancer elements," which is the primary selling point of selenium. "Tea" here refers to tea leaves, and selenium-rich tea is a type of green tea.A comprehensive explanation of selenium-rich tea is that it is a type of green tea rich in selenium, possessing all the benefits of selenium. It is a natural, green beverage for replenishing selenium. Nutritional ValueSelenium-rich tea helps reduce fat and aids in weight loss, preventing cardiovascular diseases. The relationship between drinking tea and weight loss has been closely studied. As early as over two thousand years ago, the book "Shen Nong's Herbal Classic" mentioned the weight-loss effects of tea: "Long-term consumption soothes the mind, invigorates the spirit... makes the body light and prevents aging." Modern scientific research and clinical trials have confirmed that drinking tea can lower blood lipid levels and cholesterol, making the body feel lighter. This is due to the…

Nowadays, more and more people are familiar with purple clay teapots, and the number of enthusiasts is growing. Among them, many women enjoy drinking tea with these teapots, their graceful figures and simple attire complementing the act of pouring tea, a delightful sight to behold. Today is Women's Day, so let me start by wishing all the ladies a happy holiday. So, here comes the question: if we want to gift a teapot to a woman, what kind of teapot should we choose? Or, what kind of teapot suits women best? Let’s discuss this topic today. Shishi (Lady of the West) Teapot ▲Shishi Teapot The Shishi teapot is said to be a type of purple clay teapot created during the Ming Dynasty by Xu Youquan, inspired by the beauty of Xi Shi. The rounded shape with soft lines makes it particularly suitable for women, enhancing their gentle demeanor. ▲Shishi Teapot The plump and elegant shape, full-bodied form, and the use of a flush-fitting lid make it convenient for adding tea leaves and allowing them to fully unfurl in the pot. Its slender handle and shorter spout ensure easy pouring and excellent water flow. The simple yet beautiful design makes it…