The origins of oolong can be claimed in both Taiwan and China. Oolong falls into its own category of tea and is neither a black tea nor a green tea. Yet an oolong may end up with more characteristics from black tea or more characteristics from green tea depending on the direction the tea master takes during the processing of the tea. Because oolong tea is oxidized at varying levels depending on the processing technique of the tea master, its flavor can range from light to full-bodied, floral to grassy, and sweet to toasty. The color of the leaves and the hue of the brewed tea can also vary from green to golden to brown.
Brew method for most loose leaf organic oolong teas, in water that has been heated until bubbles, have begun to rise to the top of the pan or 195 degrees Fahrenheit, for 4-7 minutes. All of our Teas including oolongs are sold as loose leaf tea, without tea bags, thus allowing for the premium oolong leaves to open up, and that means no extra waste for the tea drinker. Oolongs are particularly suited to re-steeping. In fact, second or third steeping is often preferred.
There are five significant components found in all tea from the plant Camellia Sinensis: the source of all true teas.
Essential Oils: the source of tea’s delicious flavor and aroma
Polyphenols: antioxidants that provide the tea’s brisk flavor and many of its potential health benefits
Phytonutrients: small amounts of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids including L-theanine (a very rare molecule that has been found in only three sources including Camellia Sinensis!)
Enzymes: Macromolecular biological catalysts, which accelerate chemical reactions in the body
Methylxanthines: which are a family of alkaloids that include caffeine
Each herb possesses unique ways of helping you to stay healthy and support your body, mind, and spirit. Herbs are used for a variety of purposes. In addition to medicines, herbs are often used for making teas, bathing, body care products, flower essences, supplements, and as fragrances.
Many thousands of years after mankind uncovered the medicinal and spiritual use of these plants, scientists have acquired the tools that were needed to figure out how they worked and confirm their effectiveness. You can see an example of this in scientific articles confirming the effectiveness of elderberry improving your immune system with thousands of antioxidants and even anticarcinogenic effects!
We encourage you to do your research before ingesting any herb. This is especially true if you are taking any medications, as many herbs interact with specific types of medications (St. Johns Wort and Antidepressants for example, causes serotonin syndrome, which can be fatal). Always consult your doctor before trying to treat, diagnose, or cure any medical condition, as they know what is best specifically for you.