White tea is a drink of immortality, what are its benefits and harms? Harm and contraindications. How to choose the right white tea

White is especially respected due to its low oxidation and fermentation. White tea- this is one of the most expensive and refined types of tea. And if you like to arrange tea ceremonies for yourself, then such a drink will bring a lot of positive emotions and add to your collection.

What types of tea are there?

In the modern pace of life, you rarely have the opportunity to take your time and treat yourself to your favorite drink. Basically, many people drink tea or other drinks on the run. At the moment there are many different types of tea, the most common and well known are green, yellow, red and even blue tea. The color depends mainly on the method of its assembly, as well as storage and processing. As mentioned above, one of the most expensive and rare types of this drink is white tea. The beneficial properties are something that is of great value to the Chinese (white tea is grown mainly in China). Therefore, they are reluctant to export it.

Difficult collection, processing and storage process

As a rule, white tea is processed at the point of collection due to the fact that it spoils quickly. The treatment takes no more than a minute with hot steam, then the leaves are laid out in the sun and dried until full readiness. This method is most common when processing white tea because it this drink loses a minimum of its beneficial properties and retains all its good qualities.

Harvesting white tea is considered a labor-intensive process. The point here is this: in order to collect a kilogram of high-quality produce, it is necessary to process more than one hundred thousand small white leaves. Hence the price. Now it’s clear why white tea is so expensive. But the store now offers decent brands of the drink, but not so expensive. These are white tea “Greenfield”, “Lipton”, “Curtis” and others.

Tea is collected from the very tops of the corresponding bush. This place is called the “upper tipsa”. There are only a few leaves in this place. Another nuance is that tea fibers germinate only in early April, and tea is harvested only within two days. Collection takes place from 5 - 9 am.

White tea, beneficial features which you will find in the article below, has a powerful aroma and delicate taste. This drink can easily be spoiled by foreign odors that may be present during storage, transportation and processing. Therefore, when assembling tea, workers are prohibited from using perfume, smoking, eating spicy food and so on. White tea is so capricious that it can not only absorb foreign odors, but also quickly deteriorate because of it. An interesting point is that when white tea begins to be harvested, orchards bloom in the Chinese provinces, and this is a strong aroma of flowers, and the first fibers that sprout on the tea tree instantly absorb them. This flowering process gives the drink the taste and aroma of spring flowers.

Tea storage

White tea, the beneficial properties of which disappear if stored improperly, requires a serious approach. Storing white tea is an art that allows you to preserve the taste and aroma. The jar in which the product is stored must be tightly closed and not allow rays of light or foreign odors to pass through. In addition, humidity can cause strong odors. You will certainly feel this if you store your tea in an open place or in a container that is not tightly closed. All this important rules storing a drink such as white tea. It will not cause harm if you follow them. A kilogram of white tea costs from 500 rubles to 1000 dollars.

Pay attention to the leaves!

Some sellers try to pass it off as white. It is important to be vigilant when choosing a product and buy it only in specialized stores that have product quality certificates. To distinguish white from green tea, look at the leaves. White tea leaves should be whole and even. Breaking or twisting, foreign odors are not allowed. A normal white tea leaf looks silvery on top and shimmers with a green tint, and the bottom of the leaf should have a whitish fluff. Normal white tea should smell like flowers or herbs.

Healing drink

For many, white tea is a luxury and also a way to make a good impression on people. Many people appreciate both the taste and aroma of the drink. But there are people who prefer this type of product solely because of its beneficial properties. White tea (reviews say that it is really useful) is a medicine in the literal sense. In ancient China, the drink was served only to the emperor as a healing product who was able to give strength, to win headache, chills and clear thoughts.

White tea - a replacement for vitamins?

Thanks to minimal processing product and careful storage in compliance with all instructions, you will be able to experience all the healing properties for which white tea is famous. The beneficial properties are manifested due to the content of antioxidants, polyphenols, and bioflavonoids, which prevent the aging process of the body and the formation of cancer cells. They are also able to strengthen the immune system and maintain antimicrobial properties. In addition, tea has an antiviral effect. The drink helps the body fight aging and the formation of harmful cells. This tea can really replace an entire pharmacy. People call it “miracle tea” because it really has healing properties and helps to heal the patient and put him on his feet. By the way, this drink normalizes metabolic processes in the body. One cup of this tea contains as many vitamins as one carrot. The benefits of white tea also affect your teeth. It contains fluorides, which are responsible for the health of human teeth. They keep teeth intact and also fight tartar and the development of caries in children and adults. If you are suffering from high blood pressure, then white tea is the real key to solving the problem. This product can lower blood pressure and improve the functioning of the heart and blood vessels. And yet, tea removes excess cholesterol from the blood.

How to brew correctly?

We hope you understand how to properly store such a product in the house, and now let’s move on to the question of how to brew white tea. You can’t just pour boiling water over it and start drinking it in five minutes. It needs careful handling. To prepare white tea you will need filtered or spring water. Next, this water will need to be brought to a boil, but not boiled. After this, the water must be cooled to seventy degrees and poured into a ceramic teapot. Attention! You need to preheat it, it shouldn't be cold. In order to prepare one cup of the drink, you will need about two to three teaspoons of tea (it all depends on the person’s preferences). After you have prepared everything, pour the prepared water from a ceramic teapot into the tea and steep it for five minutes. After this, you can brew the same tea up to 2 more times, depending on its taste. The first time you need to brew it for exactly five minutes.

How to brew a drink for health

If you want to brew and drink tea in healing purposes, then a slightly different approach is needed. For medicinal purposes, white tea is brewed for fifteen minutes. You need to drink this infusion three times a week for three or four weeks. After the drink has steeped, it may turn golden-green or yellow. Don't be alarmed, this is a normal process. These brewing methods are not suitable for bagged tea, such as Greenfield white tea. It should be brewed based on the instructions given on the box.

The art of drinking

Tea is usually drunk slowly. It's a whole ceremony. To prepare white tea, you need to go through many stages, and this is the art of preserving all the beneficial properties. You should drink tea slowly, only when pure form. If you add cream or milk to a drink, it can quickly spoil and acquire completely different properties. In other words, this drink needs to be savored and brewed to taste. You may not like it because you may have stored it incorrectly, and it has absorbed foreign odors and deteriorated. In addition, you should not drink white tea with any food or sweets. Even chocolate or cake can spoil the experience of the drink. The tea contains minimal amounts of caffeine and tannin, which means it can be easily drunk at night.

And remember, the best white tea is the one that was collected and stored correctly!

For human body has always been and remains relevant, and the answer to it can be both positive and negative. The most popular today are traditional black and cleansing green drinks, however, these are far from the only varieties of this product. In nature, white tea is also distinguished, which has the same rich potential and beneficial properties.

What kind of tea is this

If black and green species grown in several countries, white is considered an exclusively Chinese product, because it is in Fujian that most of it is produced (a small amount is distributed throughout the world from the islands of Taiwan and Sri Lanka).

It is likely that this is due to the specific climatic features of a given place or the conservatism of the local population, because people who want and can buy expensive varieties prefer to choose those about which entire legends have long been formed.

At the dawn of its development, “white tea” was understood as a product obtained from just one tree with light, almost white leaf blades. IN modern world this concept has a different meaning: white is tea that is not roasted traditional way on fire, but simply carefully dried after collection. It is thanks to minor processing that it is possible to preserve all the benefits and charm of the leaves and buds of the tree (the top specimens, collected in a specific period and from a specific tree, are deservedly considered the most delicate).

• Silver Needles (produced from young apical buds, silver-green in color).
• White Peony (created from buds with two slightly opened leaves).

Regardless of the specific type of white tea, it needs careful and careful transportation, which is why it can be difficult to find on the domestic market, and it costs much more. However, if you still have to taste the taste of this exquisite drink, then you will understand that it is definitely worth the money spent.

Did you know?Despite the extraordinary popularity of tea in our time, this drink was discovered completely by accident. According to Chinese legend, the first time a person tried it was in 2737 BC. One day, Emperor Shen-nong was sitting under a tree (rumored to be Camellia sinensis) and asked to bring him hot water, and as soon as the servant fulfilled his request, several leaves from the tree fell into the cup. The ruler decided not to draw them out, but after trying the infused unknown drink, he was very pleased with its taste and aroma.

Benefits for the body

The composition of white tea is in many ways similar to the composition of other types of this product, but for some reason it is believed that this particular variety has the greatest beneficial properties. This is partly true, because it contains B vitamins, ascorbic and nicotinic acids, various micro- and macroelements, amino acids, a little caffeine and some other, more specific components. Scientists believe that this composition really helps to prolong youth, improve health and a healthy mind.

Minor fermentation of such tea allows it to retain almost all unique properties tea leaves, while possessing simply enormous healing potential. In particular, white tea can slow down the growth and development of bacteria, block viral attacks and even destroy harmful microorganisms. There is an opinion that when regular use the drink can inhibit or even completely stop various bacterial mutations, while simultaneously binding and removing free radicals from the body, and suppressing the development of cancer cells.

White tea will be especially useful for people who have problems with blood pressure, although by and large, it improves the functioning of the entire circulatory system of the body, normalizing the activity of the heart and all arteries, as well as reducing cholesterol in the blood. The potassium present in the product perfectly strengthens the heart muscle and promotes its full functioning.

Important!Despite all positive properties drink described, you should not get too carried away with it, and if you have certain health problems, it is advisable to discuss the possibility of drinking white tea with your doctor in advance.

How to choose a quality product when purchasing

Considering the complexity of preparing and transporting white tea, it is not surprising that instead of quality product there is a risk of getting a cheap fake. This is one of the rarest and expensive varieties Therefore, when purchasing, it is so important to pay attention to the main signs of its naturalness. First of all, you should pay attention to the appearance of the product and its shelf life, because if you take into account that the tea harvesting season is in March-April, then fresh raw materials for brewing should go on sale around May-June. The total shelf life (from the date of production) should not exceed six months.

At visual inspection, the shape and color of all leaves in the tea leaves must be the same, without any strange impurities (dust, sticks, crumbs and other debris). In addition, the tea leaves you choose should not be damp or, much less, stick to dry hands, and its aroma must be subtle (the smell of ammonia from the packaging is simply unacceptable, as this indicates a violation of the production process when preparing tea). By the way, such a drink cannot be flavored.

Important!The price of 100 g of real white tea often reaches 50-100 dollars, so you should not trust sellers who convince you of the naturalness of the product for 100 hryvnia.

How to store at home

The ideal place to store white tea is a ceramic container with a well-fitting lid. The container with tea leaves should be placed in a dark and dry room, away from products that emit strong odors (tea absorbs various aromas very well). Keep in mind, traditional paper bags- not the best solution to the problem of containers, since through them all the useful components of tea come out.

Brewing rules

Despite all the usefulness of the described drink, you can get the maximum benefit from it only if proper brewing. Of course, in addition to brewing the most important component in in this case is water, and the purer it is, the more refined taste white tea will do. Ordinary tap water is not the best solution, since in addition to chlorine, it may also contain other components that negatively affect not only taste qualities drink, but also on your health. Good, and perhaps best choice For brewing there will be spring water, although standard bottled water is an acceptable alternative.

Chinese masters are very sensitive to the process of brewing tea, so they approach the task with full responsibility. If you believe their experience, then the most best drink is obtained by performing the following actions:

• the water is heated to 80 degrees so that small bubbles begin to form at the bottom of the container, but the liquid itself has not yet boiled;
• Be sure to prepare a porcelain teapot, after rinsing it with boiling water;
• pour tea leaves onto the bottom of the vessel in the proportion of 1 small (teaspoon) per 100 ml of heated liquid;
• fill the tea leaves with water;
• leave to infuse for three minutes.

After the specified time has passed, we can safely say that the white tea is ready for consumption.

Important! You should not immediately throw away the tea leaves prepared once, as it is quite suitable for several more brews.

What goes with it?

Teaping is already a pleasant activity in itself, but many people try to combine it with eating food. It’s one thing if you’re just used to washing down your lunch or dinner with such a drink, but if we’re talking about white tea, then you want to experience all the flavor subtleties of this exquisite drink as much as possible. It goes well with rice and flour dishes culinary products and even dried fruits, but it is better to avoid combined use with chocolate, sweets and sweet cookies (classic black is also suitable for these purposes).

I must say that many culinary masters from all over the world use white tea as one of the main ingredients when preparing fish broths, sauces, seafood, and considering that in addition to high taste properties this product has positive impact on the state of the whole organism, such gastronomic decisions are completely justified.

Can pregnant women use it?

During pregnancy many familiar products and drinks are prohibited, and if a woman is accustomed to drinking several cups of tea or coffee a day, now she will have to give up this habit. At the same time, if you regularly drink the “white” drink before conception, then by the time pregnancy occurs, the body will have enough resources to successfully carry a child and give birth to him easily. Contains fluorine, phosphorus, calcium and others important elements are actively used in the construction of the musculoskeletal system of the fetus, so even during the process of bearing a baby, drinking weak white tea in limited quantities will only contribute to positive processes.

Of course, this is all true only if the pregnant woman is not prone to allergic manifestations or does not suffer from intolerance to any component of the described product, and to cast aside all doubts and make sure that the decision you are making is safe, you can consult your gynecologist.

Recipes for use in home cosmetology

The unique properties of this Chinese discovery make it possible to use it as an excellent cosmetic product that can improve appearance skin. So, for example, the tea leaves remaining after drinking tea can be dried, ground in a coffee grinder and used as a scrub, and if you pour it again boiled water, then it will also cope well with the role of a toner (it will be able to protect your skin from the effects of free radicals, will stimulate metabolism at the cellular level and will be able to soothe irritation).

Steamed white tea can also be cooled and frozen into ice cubes, after which it becomes an excellent tonic for the décolleté area. An extract from the raw materials of this brew can be found in the list of components of various nourishing and night creams, shower gels, peelings and masks. Eg, excellent option whitening face mask next recipe: one tablespoon of steep tea leaves must be mixed with a teaspoon lemon juice and add another tablespoon of sour cream to them.

Did you know?Our usual black tea is called red in China, which makes sense: many weakly brewed varieties actually have a reddish tint.

What harm could it do?

If you have no direct contraindications to drinking the drink described (for example, allergies), then it will not harm your body. The exception is pregnant and lactating women, who should use moderation and not get carried away with this product.

Doctors are also of the opinion that white tea is completely safe, but if a person suffers from abdominal pain, has an ulcer, or experiences other inflammatory processes in the gastrointestinal tract, then it is worth giving it up for a while or consuming it in very limited quantities. It is necessary to completely eliminate the drink in case of elevated temperature body or kidney disease. Otherwise, if you are feeling well and all the above factors are absent, you should not deny yourself the pleasure of tasty and healthy tea.

Hello, friends!

Just over these couple of years I have tried a large number of different types of tea.

Some have already taken root in my diet so much that I can’t imagine my tea drinking without them, while others I couldn’t drink at all.

For example, Tulsi tea, holy basil, turned out to be not my drink at all, despite all its usefulness (I’ll write about this later)

And now the turn has come to the KING of tea types - white tea, which I want to tell you about in this article☺

Its history and path to our cups is slightly different from the classic black and green hot drinks, established by time and customs.

From this article you will learn:

White tea - health benefits and recipes

Features of growing and harvesting white tea

White tea is a type of tea that undergoes mild fermentation (oxidation). The name “white” comes from the appearance of a tea bud, which is densely covered with white hair. wiki

White tea was brewed at the court of Chinese emperors.

They valued this tea for its refined taste, refined aroma, and for the fact that it clears the mind and lowers internal heat, which, according to the theory of Chinese medicine, is “the cause of a hundred diseases.”

The history of the prototype of this type of tea goes back about 880 years, the history of individual varieties bred specifically for the production of white tea goes back 100-150 years.

Why is tea white and types of white tea

An unusual type of tea, called “white”, has several versions of its origin.

1. The first talks about a specific metal element that plays an important role in Chinese medicine.
2. The second is based on the specifics of the external structure of the plant, which has tea buds covered with white hair.

Unlike black tea or tea, its growing areas are very limited.

Only the Chinese region of Fujian and a separate modest production in Taiwan are officially known.

Only a few varieties are grown, the best are considered:

• Bai Hao Yin Zhen (白毫银针 "white-haired silver needles")
• Baimudan (bái mǔdān, 白牡丹, "white peony")

In appearance the drink resembles a weakly brewed one green tea, and to taste it is a combination of honey, melon, berries,

How is white tea harvested?

The procedure for collecting tea leaves can also be called a real ritual.

Firstly, they do this only in mid-spring and early autumn.

During the periods suitable for harvesting, plantation workers have to start their duties very early, since the best time for harvesting white tea is considered to be early morning (from 5.00 to 9.00).

In addition, before starting the procedure, workers are prohibited from consuming anything that could in any way affect the freshness of the tea leaves.

Smoking, garlic, alcohol, spices - all this can significantly affect the light, subtle aroma of the plant.

If the tea was collected in bad weather conditions, its cost may increase. As a rule, only the top leaves are used for further processing. tea tree.

A special feature of this type of tea is its susceptibility to very weak fermentation. Manufacturing process begins with steaming the foliage and then drying it in special ovens.

Product packaging – the following and final stage preparing white tea for sale.

Benefits of white tea for the body

It is not surprising that this particular variety is considered the most expensive.

Its beneficial properties fully correspond to its high price.

And as you understand, its secret is that, unlike black and green teas, white tea undergoes a minimum of preliminary preparation and only the newest leaves are used in the manufacturing process.

This drink contains natural essential oils and many minerals. It contains vitamins C, PP, B vitamins, trace elements, amino acids.

And also in it less caffeine than in other types of tea.

The distinctive quality of white tea is its ability to cleanse the body. Regular consumption of a hot drink helps remove toxins, waste, and also acts as a tonic.

White tea is a truly multifunctional drink.

Possessing immunomodulatory properties, it is considered an effective antidepressant and has a beneficial effect on nervous system, helps fight irritability and fatigue.

It turns out that white tea is a strong antiseptic that can have an anti-inflammatory effect.

Even in Ancient China and Tibet, colds were overcome with the help of this truly medicinal “potion.”

White tea for weight loss

German researchers, after conducting a number of experiments, were able to confirm the fat-burning property of white tea.

That is why it is considered an indispensable component of many diets and weight loss programs.

The most important thing is that drinking this drink does not just contribute to loss excess weight, but also prevents the return of former kilograms.

White tea tree leaves are often used in cosmetology.

It is included in body creams and gels, and face masks.

The benefits of such a plant for the skin are simply indescribable: the firming effect after external use of the drink makes many people think about changing their usual cosmetics and opt for white tea.

How to make delicious white tea?

To get delicious hot drink, it is important to listen to some advice.

• Water and temperature

The first thing you should pay attention to is the quality of the water, its temperature.

Spring water will become ideal solution for preparing white tea, since the chlorine present in tap or bottled water drinking water, can interfere with obtaining the full aroma and taste of the most delicate drink.

Boiling water is not suitable for instant brewing, but 80 degrees is considered the best temperature for young white tea leaves to quickly release all their beneficial properties.

• Brewing proportions and time

Take 3.0-5.0 per 150 ml of water, brew for 3-4 minutes.

In the homeland of white tea, much attention is paid to the brewing procedure; this process is considered no less important than tea drinking itself.

To prepare a truly imperial drink, you must use only special utensils.

Most often, such sets are miniature, made of Yixing clay and are designed to create an emphasis on aesthetics, rich taste and valuable qualities white tea.

Possible harm from drinking too much white tea

As for contraindications to drinking white tea, those who constantly drink this drink should not worry too much.

Naturally, the invigorating effect this drink has on the body can negatively affect the condition of a person suffering from chronic vascular diseases, in particular arterial hypertension.

Diabetes and renal failure can also be included in the list of potential risks.

According to experts, the period of pregnancy and lactation is not the best time to drink white tea.

But the main contraindications to tea drinking are often chronic ailments of the gastrointestinal tract.

How to store and where to buy white tea?

White tea should be stored in a well-closed ceramic container, with a well-fitted lid, away from any odorous products, because it absorbs foreign odors very quickly.

The best storage conditions for white tea are in an airtight container at a temperature of 10 C in the refrigerator. In such conditions, white tea can be stored for up to 10 years.

You can buy white tea in tea shops, online stores, I bought this white tea on iHerb Here

This is what it is, this white tea. For those who haven’t tried it, I recommend giving it a try, and for those who have tried it, share your feedback☺

I would be grateful for reposting this article on social networks, and I also remind you of the benefits of subscribing to all updates of this blog.

Alena Yasneva was with you, bye everyone!

Our mission today is to provide comprehensive information about white tea. Opinions about it are mostly erroneous, and therefore we will debunk the myths, reveal the topic of its collection and production, and pay attention to its beneficial properties and method of preparation. wonderful drink. Let’s put everything into one puzzle so that you, dear readers, get a comprehensive understanding of this magical product.

general information

White tea is one of six varieties accepted by the technological classification.

The first mention of the hero of our article occurs at the beginning of the 12th century. We are talking about Bai Hao Yin Zhen (Silver Needles), the most famous and valuable representative of the group. It was written about in a historical treatise during the reign of Emperor Hueng Tsung, who highly valued this particular variety. Mass production began at the end of the 18th century, when white tea began to be supplied to Europe after the embargo on its export was lifted.

Why white? The reason for the name was the color of the bud, covered with fluffy fibers. The idea of ​​white varieties is to preserve the original appearance of the tea leaf growing on the camellia bush, preserving all its naturalness and minimizing human impact.

Let's debunk the myths

Let's start our excursion by debunking popular myths.

• For its production, a special variety of leaves is used.

Of course, there are types of shrubs that produce the best leaves and buds. In fact, like every other type, white tea can be made from almost any raw material.

• White varieties are the healthiest.

This assumption is logical at first glance. After all, the leaves are almost not processed during production, which means that all the benefits are retained. There are really a lot of antioxidants and vitamins in white tea. Although there is one “but” - its low extractivity. This means that when brewing, most of the components simply do not end up in the infusion. This is due precisely to minimal processing, during which the cell membranes are not damaged and everything useful remains inside them. As a result, the benefits of white tea correlate with other varieties: for example, green and red, which are not as rich chemical composition, but high extractivity.

• The younger, the more expensive.

Also a myth. It is a mistaken belief that you need to drink tea within 3-5 months from the date of collection. In fact, every day high-quality white varieties acquire new beneficial properties. If the shens gradually change towards shu, the white ones - towards the red ones. Aging makes them golden, then the leaves turn brown, and the infusion becomes thicker and brighter. The value of many white varieties (for example, Shou Mei and Gong Mei) only increases over the years. The main thing is to store them correctly.

• The best brewing temperature is below 80 degrees.

Everything is individual for each variety. For example, Silver needles are suitable for cooking and open better in water of 90-100 degrees.

About fermentation

“Killing the greens” is a step that does not exist in the white tea production process. What does it mean? The fact that active enzymes that take part in oxidation are completely preserved in the leaf. As a result, its fermentation (degree of oxidation) becomes slightly higher than that of green varieties. It varies from 5 to 10%. This is manifested both in the color that the water acquires and in the organoleptic properties of white varieties. Their infusion is darker and the taste is denser than that of green ones.

A logical question arises: why during the production of white tea (on average, the full cycle takes a little more than a day) does the leaf not completely oxidize? The answer is: the leaves are not crushed before air-drying, so the cell membranes are not deformed and the juice is not released. As a result, fermentation proceeds very slowly and differently from other varieties. The process produces much less oxidized substances, which differ from the oxidation products of oolongs, puerhs, and green varieties. This explains the unique taste characteristic of white teas.

Geography of white tea

China, quite predictably, is the world leader in the volume of white tea produced. It accounts for more than 90% of all supplies. The center is the province of Fujian, which is also famous for its red varieties and dark oolongs.

The shrubs that provide raw materials for its production mostly grow in Fuding County, near the Ui Mountains. Created here ideal conditions for a delicious harvest: tender buds and young leaves. Clouds, fogs, dense forests, proximity to the coast... Anything will bloom here and be filled with vital energy.

The growing season of Da Bai Hao begins early - around the end of February. Therefore, we have the pleasure of enjoying fresh white varieties earlier than other types of tea. By the beginning of spring, the bushes are already overgrown with fluffy buds. By the way, their main function is to protect the plant from the cold.

The remaining 10% of world production comes from Sri Lanka and India (Nilgiri and Okaithi provinces). In these countries it is also highly valued and is produced mainly for export.

Chinese white tea

Due to the fact that the predominant volumes of this tea are produced in the Middle Kingdom, the question of white tea from China will be relevant.

Collection and subtleties of production

Features of collection, including seasonality and time of day, differ depending on the specific variety. Silver needles, for example, fall under the rule of ten prohibitions on leaf collection. They are not collected during rain, when there is dew on the grass, small and weak buds, purple shoots, damaged and too large buds, and so on. Only thorough compliance with these rules allows you to obtain a product with a special aroma and properties.

The process of producing white varieties is simple and complex at the same time. Let's explain in order.

Simplicity lies in a simple technological chain and minimal processing of the sheet in the process. The process includes only three steps:

• harvesting;
• wilting of leaves;
• drying in the fresh air.

White tea is the only type of tea that is not crushed during production. This helps slow down its fermentation , which was discussed in the corresponding chapter.

The difficulty lies in the many nuances of collecting and subsequent handling of tea leaves. Strict adherence to withering and drying times is required. temperature regime and humidity so that the output is perfect product, with a delicate aroma and beneficial properties.

Sometimes another stage is added to the technological cycle - pressing. It is done very carefully so as not to damage the leaves. Shou Mei and Baimudan are often pressed. Sometimes they are called white pu-erh, but in essence they only have pressing and shape from pu-erh.

Varieties of Chinese white tea

Of course, there are more of them (about a dozen), but there are four of the brightest. It is interesting that they differ from each other not in the type of shrub or production technology (it is the same), but in the stage of leaf maturation. For example, for Bai Mu Dan they take buds with two leaves, for Silver Needles only buds.

1. Bai Hao Yin Zhen. Honored leader in popularity and value. Included in the top ten most popular teas. Until 1891, there was an embargo on its export from the country. After the ban was lifted, it spread throughout the world with lightning speed, and was especially highly valued by the British and Dutch. A product for true connoisseurs and connoisseurs.
2. Baimudan (White Peony). Its price is lower, the taste is more understandable, very pleasant, soft and fresh, and changes interestingly when brewed. There are both loose and compressed Baimudan.
3. Shou Mei (Old Man's Eyebrows/Longevity Eyebrows) is an inexpensive tea with a fresh, fruity and floral taste.
4. Gong Mei is also an inexpensive white tea that combines the lightness of fruity and floral tones and the piquancy of roasted nuts and sugar.

There are also new varieties worthy of attention and tasting. For example, the unusual Yue Guan Bai (White Moonlight) with a specific aroma, in which notes of strawberries and honey are especially pronounced.

We brew tea from China

In the field of preparing white tea, there are also stereotypes. There is, for example, a belief that it, like green, is best revealed in porcelain and glass. Allegedly, a clay teapot is not a suitable vessel for it. Another opinion is that the less fermented the tea, the lower the water temperature should be.

It's all relative. Don't forget that making white tea is a creative process, and tasting it is not only pleasure, but also learning. Experiment: try brewing different varieties in various dishes, with different temperatures. For example, Bai Hao Yin Zhen opens well in 100 degree water and is ideal for cooking over fire.

But it is better to take filtered or spring water: based on it, the drink will be tastier, more aromatic and healthier.

The benefits and harms of white tea

As we have already noted in the “Debunking Myths” section, the beneficial properties of white varieties are often exaggerated.

When it comes to benefits, the quality of raw materials and adherence to technology are especially important for white representatives. The slightest violation leads to valuable substances leaves (antioxidants, minerals) simply do not enter the infusion, and, accordingly, the human body. Choose good tea, and you will be happy.

With regular consumption of white tea, your health and well-being improve, especially if you drink it instead of coffee. In China they talk about his strength in the fight against the “three heights” (“san gao”):

• high blood pressure;
• high cholesterol;
• elevated blood sugar levels.

And also about the “three counteractions”: radiation, proliferation of cancer cells, aging. Although the latter applies to almost all varieties of light tea.

Especially a lot of positive reviews about white tea are left by hypertensive patients, people with overweight, gastrointestinal diseases and problematic metabolism.

In Chinese medicine it is classified as the metal element. Hardness, purity, protection. But everything is good in moderation, so you shouldn’t drink more than 2-3 cups a day, so as not to feel possible harm from white tea.

Impact on the human condition

Our energy burns out in the fire of stress and everyday bustle. And this is harmful to health. Tea helps you calm down and organize your thoughts, which means you can recharge your batteries and harmoniously balance between the external and internal worlds. White varieties are especially magically calming. They are light and gentle, and therefore relax and harmonize without causing pressure surges or other unpleasant things.

Storage

Store in a closed container (for example, ceramic or wooden) with a tight lid, in a dark and dry place. White, like other light varieties, quickly expire, losing their properties, and also instantly absorb foreign odors. Therefore, they definitely do not belong in a drawer with spices and coffee.

In an airtight container at a temperature of 10-15 degrees, tea can be stored for more than 10 years without losing its properties over time. And, perhaps, improving them.

True connoisseurs consider white tea to be the most beautiful type of tea. The delicate aroma and magnificent taste of this drink conquer the hearts of gourmets all over the world.

Initially, white tea was only available to the Emperor of China and his family. This drink was considered the most expensive and refined in the entire Celestial Empire. The secrets of its production were kept in deep secrecy, and special requirements were placed on tea leaf collectors. White tea was considered a drink of youth and health. Even high-ranking persons could only dream of it as a sign of favor from the emperor.

What is "white tea"?

White tea is prepared from the most tender buds and young leaves. Not all tea bushes are suitable for white tea. Leaves and buds suitable for this drink appear only on bushes that grow at high altitudes above sea level, in special weather conditions.

Collect buds and one or two (no more) young leaves only in clear weather. For elite varieties For white tea, only those leaves are suitable that are collected within two morning hours over the course of just two days in early spring and early autumn.

These ingredients are minimally processed: steamed for a minute and then naturally dried in the sun. Thanks to this, the beneficial properties of white tea are truly amazing.

By the way, white tea is called white because the collection and processing process does not damage the white fibers that cover the buds and leaves. In China these fibers are called "Bai Hao".

Real white tea is produced only in China (Fujian Province). It is also supplied from Sri Lanka, but opinions about the quality of this tea differ. This tea is certainly good and created in accordance with traditional methods, but not all white tea connoisseurs are ready to put Sri Lankan tea on the same level as Chinese tea.

Properties of white tea

Minimal processing makes white tea truly healthy drink. It preserves valuable substances that are destroyed over long periods of time. heat treatment, to which other types of tea are exposed.

White tea contains many essential oils, beneficial for human health, due to which it perfectly refreshes and quenches thirst.

This type of tea intensively fights free radicals, which contribute to the aging of tissues of the human body and disruption of metabolic processes in the body.

White tea contains a small amount of caffeine, which is why this tea has such a delicate taste and aroma.

White tea also surprisingly improves your mood. It is even recommended as a natural antidepressant.

Benefits of white tea

Thanks to its beneficial properties, white tea actively fights the aging process of the body. Its extracts are used as active component anti-aging creams and masks for face and body.

White tea improves the condition of facial skin, making it more elastic and smooth.

This tea helps strengthen the immune system and has a tonic effect on the body.

Those who want to lose weight also note the beneficial properties of white tea: this drink activates metabolic processes in the body, and this, in turn, leads to the burning of internal fat.

White tea intensively removes toxins and waste from the body (including after alcohol, nicotine or food poisoning).

Drinking white tea reduces the likelihood of tartar and caries.

White tea is used to prevent cancer.

Harm of white tea

White tea has virtually no contraindications. The only exception is if you have an intolerance to this product (allergy).

Otherwise, white tea is a safe, healthy and tasty drink.

When is it especially important to drink white tea?

• During the spread of viral diseases.
• During festive events accompanied by feasts with strong drinks.
• In situations chronic fatigue and under constant stress.
• It is useful for those who want to improve their appearance: lose extra pounds and improve the condition of their skin.
• With risks of cancer.
• When consumed large quantity sugar and lactic acid, which are harmful to teeth.

White tea varieties

The most expensive variety is considered “Bai Hao Yin Zhen”, which is translated from Chinese as “silver needles with white hairs”. In Russia, this variety is often called simply "silver needles".

Premium varieties of white tea include "Bai Mu Dan". It means "white peony". It is recommended to those who are not a true gourmet, but is able to appreciate truly high-quality gourmet tea.

A variety is made from leaves that are not whole "Show May"(in Russian the name sounds outlandish: “senile eyebrows”).

Tea is also considered medium quality tea. "Gong Mei"(another funny name: “gift eyebrows”).

Also, white tea varieties include "White Dragon Pearl" And "White Monkey".

Where can I buy; tea price

You can buy real white tea in specialized tea stores and tea culture clubs (which, unfortunately, are not found in every city).
Many online tea stores offer white tea.

It is worth remembering that real white tea is not packed in factory packaging, as it is very fragile. It is recommended to buy it in May-June: not much time has passed after harvesting - the tea still retains its freshness and aroma.

It is best to buy white tea abroad, in the countries where it is produced, or in states neighboring the exporters.

One of the most expensive types of tea (not only white) is Bai Hao Yin Zhen. Its price can reach up to $2000 per kilogram.

Average price for 50 gr. white tea fluctuates on the Russian market from 90 to 414 rubles.