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Oolong Teas
Oolong teas are produced within China, central Taiwan, Sri Lanka and South India. Tea leaves are picked on the morning of a clear day as units consisting of one bud and three leaves. Next they are dried indoors to promote oxidation (fermentation). The most critical part in the production of oolong tea is to know when to stop oxidation (fermentation), which is when the leaves are 30% red and 70% green. Once this has been achieved, they are rubbed repeatedly to generate good flavor, aroma, and texture. Using charcoal, they are lightly dried. Like green tea ( tea that is not oxidized) and black tea (fully oxidized), oolong has many health benefits. It is high in anti-oxidants, aiding the body in eliminating free radicals and may contain some anti-aging properties. Oolong tea may also assist in weight loss, as all teas in varying degrees, by elimination of extra triglycerides that settle into the body's fat cells which can lead to obesity. As with green tea, oolong tea may assist with the slowing of tooth decay. To brew oolong tea, in hot water (just before the boiling point) place the leaves for 3-4 minutes. Please note, drinking tea is a very personal experience and what may be a desired steeping time for one individual, may not be for another.
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