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For folks who buy oolong tea by tea bag, you're missing out on the beneficial flavors this type of tea offers.
For information on purchasing loose oolong tea visit the Adagio Teas link below:
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Oolong tea, which is a cross between green and black tea, yields many varieties, all which have their own uniqueness. The reason I recommend AGAINST tea bags is because of several reasons.
First, as mentioned, the flavor suffers. This is due to the tiny pieces of tea called "fannings" (or tea dust) that go into making tea bag tea. Loose oolong tea consists of large leaves that when steeped open up releasing their essential oils that are important for taste and benefits.
Another reason is the lack of health benefits offered by bags. Loose leaf tea provides a greater antioxidant and plant polyphenol count when compared to a bag. In fact, it is the polyphenols that are responsible for oolong's weight loss benefits, so for folks who are drinking oolong tea to shed some pounds, go the extra yard for the loose stuff!
Your palate will thank you too!
And the last reason is that tea bag tea doesn't offer as many varieties as loose tea does. The oolong type of tea consists of hundreds of varieties, where tea bags are only limited to a few...usually what is left over at the bottom of the barrel.
So Where To Buy Oolong Tea?
Check around your area to see if a local health food store carries some. Be aware though, like bag tea, even though this is loose leaf we're after now, it still may suffer another fate tea bags are known for...freshness. Inquire how old the tea is. Remember that even loose leaf tea loses much of its flavor after 6 to 8 months; especially white and green tea.
You can also buy oolong tea online, but again, the age of the tea will determine how much you enjoy it and how many benefits you'll absorb.
There are several reputable merchants on the net that sell a quality product. Adagio Teas is one, and is where I buy some of my loose leaf tea. My first cup of loose tea was from them, and they really helped open me up to the world of loose tea.
They have a fantastic selection of varieties to choose from, and helpful customer reviews to help aid in a choice. One thing I like about them is that they sell small sample sizes for various experimenting; that way, you don't blow all of your money on a big bag of tea you don't truly fancy. Their shipping time is impressive as well.
”Pouchong” oolong tea is a good one to start off with. However, please note that not all teas may be available at all times: Visit Adagio Teas Here
After you buy oolong tea or any other loose teas, please remember to come back to this site for some helpful brewing tips. You paid good money for your tea, so I want to ensure you avoid spoiling your cup.
As a quick review, always use fresh water (never tap water), do not over-steep and follow the brewing times. Avoid putting in artificial sweeteners or milk. Oolong tea is meant to be enjoyed straight up. However, it is ok to put in a little honey. Also, you'll need an infuser for the leaves to steep in.
Oolong teas generally taste sweet and flowery, with just a little hint of vegetal "woodness". This is nothing that will take a lot of time getting used to though, for most folks it is barely noticeable after a couple of cups. Granted, this all depends on the variety. If you're not sure, once again go with the sample sizes until you find your favorite.
Click Here For Oolong Tea Variety Reviews
Click Here For Proper Brewing Information
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