Clay teapots > Info > Oolong tea

Oolong tea

(Also known as Wulong)

The name "oolong" comes from the Chinese for "black dragon." The health benefits of oolong include both antibacterial and anti-viral properties, as well as boosting metabolism and the immune system. It aids in the relief of allergies, diabetes, eczema, and obesity and may help prevent cancer. Yes, oolong does promote weight loss. While green tea is a better antioxidant than oolong, oolong is more productive in fat burning. Green tea may be more accessible and in some cases more affordable, but some people prefer the less vegetal taste of oolong.

Oolong teas should be brewed around 194 °F to 212 °F, and the brewing vessel should be warmed before pouring in the water. Yixing purple clay teapots are the traditional brewing vessel for oolong tea. For best results use spring water, as the minerals in spring water tend to bring out more flavor in the tea. High quality oolong can be brewed multiple times from the same leaves, and unlike green tea it improves with reuse. It is common to brew the same leaves three to five times, the third steeping usually being the best. If you find the taste of oolong too strong, use a smaller measure of tea leaves or steep for less time. You can also add a small amount of skim milk or soy milk, or sweeten with honey. As you grow accustomed to the flavor, you can brew stronger tea and eliminate these additions.

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