Pu-Erh Tea The Wonder Tonic (Birds Nest Tea)
Pu-erh tea originates from China and is part of the Camellia sinensis plant. It has also been called Birds Nest tea. This is because of the way the leaves are pressed which resembles a birds nest, which are then wrapped into individual bowl packages. The trees that the tea is taken from are old wild trees and these are considered sacred in the province where this Chinese tea is grown.
What Is Pu-erh Tea
Pu-erh tea gets its name from the province it is grown in. There is quite a lot of tradition surrounding the tea, and the production and fermenting process is kept as a closely guarded secret. It is known as the “Wonder Tonic” in some areas and is said to have magical healing qualities.
Until recently, importing the tea was difficult and mystery still shrouds exactly how the tea is made. Some say that the trees are associated with the healing benefits.
The Taste And Color
Pu-erh tea has a rich, earthy taste with a certain amount of mellowness to it. The reason behind this remarkable taste has something to do with the fermenting process, with some saying the leaves are actually fermented for 18 years.
How To Brew
Surpisingly, Birds Nest Tea is probably one of the easiest teas to brew. The tea comes wrapped and pressed into individual bowl shapes and it is recommended to use 1 little birds nest per cup.
Amount Of Tea And Steeping Time
The steeping time separates this pu-erh tea from all the others. Because of the way the tea is processed it can survive longer steeping times and it is recommend to steep for around 5-10 minutes according to taste preference. In fact leaving the tea steeping for hours will not harm the tea at all. You can either uses this a starter for the day if brewed strongly or as a refreshing light evening tea if required.
Storing the tea over a longer time will actually help it mature and improve the taste.
Benefits Of Pu-erh Tea
Pu-erh tea has a range of medicinal and health benefits and is known in China for its great healing powers.
Pu-erh Tea For Weight Loss
Birds Net Tea is known for its many benefits to health and wellbeing, including weight loss. By increasing the metabolism of the body it is said to burn fat more quickly. In fact pu-erh tea is often recommended after a heavy meal as it is thought to aid digestion and ease the symptoms of indigestion.
Pu-erh tea may also have other benefits. It is thought to lower cholesterol and regulate blood pressure, removing toxins and acting an inflammatory and has also been suggested to be a cure to the aging process.