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Tea Laboratory

Different Types of Tea in China

There are mainly 4 types of tea in China.

	1. Green Tea, Non-Fermented Green tea is steamed until soft, then rolled and dried over charcoal. It is not fermented. Green tea should be bought in small amounts as it is very delicate and will not last long, unlike most fermented teas. Best if stored in a tight-lidded caddy. ("Caddy" got its name from the word "catty", a Chinese measure of weight, equivalent to 1.33 pounds) Researchers have found out that green tea contains polyphenol compounds that lower cholesterol by stopping the production of the enzymes that produce carcinogens. Therefore it reduces the risk of having lung, stomach or esophagal cancer. It also helps to reduce blood pressure.
	2. Oolong, Semi-Fermented Oolong means "Black Dragon". It is slightly fermented and almost like green tea. The most famous oolong tea comes from Taiwan. e.g. the iron buddha tea from Chiuchow, which is bitter and strong. It is said to be good for digestion and adds strength.
	3. Black, Fully-Fermented Black tea is called red tea in the west. This tea can store well for a long period of time under dark, and dry places. The tea leaves are spread out on a screen and dried by the sun or hot air. Then they are rolled to expose the juice and oxidation starts. After that the leaves are left on cool surfaces, such as glass, stone, metal, or title. Then they are heated over charcoal. The leaves become dark red in color when they ferment. P'u erh teas are very famous black teas from the Yunnan province, which are grouped by regions, and not by their color. People say it is like a digestive, expectorant, energizer, and a life extender.
	4. Flower Blends Jasmine is the most popular flower used for making flower blends because it grows so plentiful. (hsiang pien)

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