Oolong tea: The perfect coffee alternative for stress relief
Lately, I've been under a lot of stress, and my nerves have been overly sensitive. I was drinking cup after cup of coffee to improve my concentration, but it caused me a headache. That's when a friend suggested this special tea to me.
I love coffee, not only for its taste but also for its effects. It's a reliable drink when I need more energy, better concentration, or even a moment of calm. This holds true as long as I don't overindulge. Too many cups of coffee in a day often result in a headache, which is exactly what happened to me. However, there is a drink that can perfectly replace coffee.
What to replace coffee with?
When we're nervous or experiencing a lot of stress, it's easy to make mistakes, even in our diet. Although coffee is tasty and stimulating, it should be consumed in moderation. It is recommended not to drink more than five cups a day. It's worth remembering that similar effects can also be achieved with other drinks. Not long ago, a friend reminded me about oolong tea. I was familiar with it but had completely forgotten about its properties.
It’s popular in China
Along with green and white tea, oolong tea is considered one of the healthiest teas. It's a unique beverage that combines the characteristics of black and green tea. It enjoys particular popularity and recognition in China, Nepal, Vietnam, and Taiwan.
Its uniqueness comes from the fact that it is partially oxidised. This means the tea leaves undergo an oxidation process to varying degrees, from 10 to 70 per cent. The degree of oxidation affects the taste of oolong tea, offering a range of aromas – from delicate and floral to intense and smoky.
How does oolong tea work?
Choosing oolong tea instead of another coffee is worthwhile - thanks to its content of theine and caffeine, it enhances concentration. Additionally, because it contains L-theanine, a potent amino acid, it calms and soothes nerves more effectively and quickly. Scientific studies confirm that oolong tea may help regulate cholesterol levels and positively influence blood pressure. Rich in polyphenols, oolong has anti-inflammatory properties and slows down ageing processes.
Regular consumption of oolong tea also stimulates the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, improving digestion and strengthening the immune system. It's worth incorporating it into your daily diet and enjoying its benefits.
Tea brewing lesson
Water at 85-90 degrees Celsius is ideal for brewing oolong tea. A teaspoon of leaves is enough for a cup. After 3-5 minutes, the tea is ready. If you prefer stronger flavours, you can extend the brewing time.
Finally, strain the tea to remove the leaves. You can also easily buy oolong tea bags.
