For most families, tea is their favorite drink. A large number of different types tea, which can differ among themselves in many parameters: the degree of maturity of the tea leaf, the place of collection, the method of preparation and processing. The taste of the drink, as well as its properties, strongly depends on these parameters.

The greatest demand is for black tea and green tea. And only true connoisseurs who know a lot about this drink give preference to white tea, which has unique taste and the subtlest aroma. It is white that is considered a real gem among all types of teas.

It's not for nothing that he for a long time was available exclusively to members of the imperial family. The technology of its production was classified, certain requirements were imposed on the pickers of tea, and it was collected only a few days a year in the morning. Let's take a look at the benefits and harms of white tea.

The drink got this name thanks to the white villi that cover the buds and leaves of the plant. Minimal processing of tea leaves practically does not damage them and does not change their appearance, and also contributes to maximum preservation nutrients... For its manufacture, the upper tender buds and adjacent leaves are collected.

Advice! Real tea this variety is sold by weight only. However, you should not choose tea produced more than a year ago.

Varieties

The most elite varieties of this tea are considered to be Silver Needles and White Peony. The main difference between these two varieties is as follows: the first of them is made from young leaves that have not yet blossomed and look like needles (hence the name). White peony is already made from buds and leaves.

Also, good varieties are considered to be the amusing names of the Old Man's Eyebrows (Show Mei) and Longevity or Gift Eyebrows (Gong Mei), but they are somewhat inferior in taste to the previous two varieties.

The drink has a common sweetish taste, but at the same time there is a bitter taste. Pleasant herbal scent.

Advice! Authentic white tea is produced in only one Chinese province - Fujian. Even the Chinese themselves consider dry tea made elsewhere to be fake.

Composition and effect on the human body

It is not for nothing that white tea is called the drink of youth and longevity - it has collected and stores a large amount of nutrients, vitamins and microelements that have a beneficial effect on human health:

1. Caffeine. Known for its tonic effect. Perfectly refreshes and quenches thirst.
2. Phenolic compounds such as tannins and catechins. Normalize metabolism, promote weight loss. Epigallocatechin gallate is considered one of the the most powerful antioxidantswhich helps the body accumulate and assimilate vitamins C and P from the foods we eat. This, in turn, improves the elasticity of blood vessels and normalizes blood pressure. In addition, catechins increase the body's sensitivity to insulin, which is very important for diabetics.
3. Vitamins B1, B2, B3, C, PP, P and K.Tea contains a large amount of vitamin P. It increases the ability of the blood to clot so that wounds heal much faster. Largely due to this property, the drink got the name "elixir of immortality": quickly healing wounds, it helps the body to recover. Vitamin E strengthens blood vessels, therefore, white tea is especially useful for women suffering from varicose veins.
4. Trace elements magnesium, potassium, sodium, calcium.
5. Amino acids. Glutamic acid, together with phosphorus compounds, has a beneficial effect on nervous system human, nourishes nerve fibers and promotes their recovery.

Few drink can compare with white tea in terms of its effects on humans:

1. Slows down the aging process and promotes the rejuvenation of the body.
2. Increases immunity, helps to cope with colds... During periods of their epidemics, it is recommended to drink white tea.
3. Raises the general tone of the body, relieves fatigue and improves mood.
4. Prevents the formation of calculus and caries. A real salvation for those with a sweet tooth and people who consume lactic acid.
5. Promotes the early elimination of toxins. Helps with different types poisoning: alcoholic, food and nicotine. Therefore, during feasts and holidays, such a drink will come in handy.
6. Normalizes and speeds up metabolic processes, destroys fat cells, which promotes weight loss. It is used during a diet.
7. Suitable for the prevention of cancer.
8. Perfectly copes with the elimination of free radicals, various toxins and toxins from the body, destroys cholesterol plaques.
9. Renders positive influence on the appearance of the face and body skin, making it elastic and smooth. This property tea is widely used in making cosmetics.

Advice! Tea leaves that are properly dried should break if rubbed. Overdried tea leaves turn into dust, and underdried tea leaves into rolled lumps.

To get the maximum positive effect from tea, the magazine Polzateevo recommends brewing it in a certain way. The tea leaves are prepared in glass, ceramic or porcelain tableware... In no case should you pour boiling water over your tea. Optimum temperature for this should be approximately 60 to 85 ° C. Proportion: 3-5 g per 150 ml of hot water. Infuse the tea leaves for 4-5 minutes. The same tea leaves can be brewed several times.

Important: Never add milk to this tea. This will reduce the effect of antioxidants.

Contraindications

Despite the fact that white tea is a completely natural product with high content useful substances, with extreme caution (no more than one cup per day), it should be consumed:

• during pregnancy and lactation;
• with ulcers of the stomach and duodenum;
• kidney disease (especially if there are stones) or liver;
• pancreatitis;
• cholecystitis;
• increased acidity of the stomach;
• hypertension;
• sleep disorders;
• during exacerbation of diseases genitourinary system.

It is important to note that such restrictions are more or less common for any type of tea. In general, there are no serious contraindications, especially for healthy people. In extremely rare cases, there may be allergic reaction... Well, and, of course, such a drink is not recommended to drink at night, as it has an exciting effect. This drink should be introduced into the children's diet only after one and a half years (at first, a little, and from the age of seven, one or two cups can be used).

The tea leaves should be weak. Older people can consume it in large quantities, unlike black and green tea, it has much less caffeine. Good choice white tea will also be for those who are on a diet. It helps to speed up metabolism and also burns internal fat. Best consumed 30 minutes before meals.

Otherwise, white tea is easy way to beauty and health. It has a pleasant, light, subtle aroma, and delicate taste.

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

general information

White tea - one of six varieties adopted by the technological classification.

The first mention of the hero of our article falls on 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 is written about him in a historical treatise during the reign of Emperor Huen Zong, who highly appreciated this particular variety. Mass production began in the late 18th century, when white tea was exported to Europe after the export embargo was lifted.

Why white? The reason for the name is the color of the bud, covered with fluffy villi. The idea behind the white varieties is to preserve the original appearance of the tea leaf growing on the camellia bush, keeping it all natural and minimizing human impact.

Debunking the myths

Let's start our excursion by debunking popular myths.

• For its production use special grade leaves.

There are certainly 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.

At first glance, this assumption is logical. After all, the leaves are almost not processed during production, which means that all the benefits are preserved in them. There are really a lot of antioxidants and vitamins in white tea. Although there is one "but" - its low extractability. This means that when brewing, most of the components simply do not go into the infusion. This is due precisely to the 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, with green and red tea, which are not so rich in chemical compositionbut high extractability.

• The younger, the more expensive.

Also a myth. The opinion that tea should be drunk within 3-5 months from the day of collection is mistaken. In fact, every day high-quality white varieties acquire new useful properties. If the shengs gradually change towards shu, white - towards red. Exposure makes them golden, then the leaves acquire brown tint, the infusion becomes thicker and brighter. The value of many white varieties (for example, Show May 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 90-100 degrees water.

About fermentation

“Killing the Greens” is a stage that does not exist in the white tea production process. What does it mean? The fact that the active enzymes that take part in oxidation are completely retained in the leaf. As a result, its fermentation (oxidation state) 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 the white varieties. Their infusion is darker and the taste is denser than that of greens.

A logical question arises: why does not complete oxidation of the leaf occur during the production of white tea (on average, a full cycle takes a little more than a day)? The answer is this: before air drying, the leaves are not crushed, thus the cell membranes are not deformed, the juice is not released. As a result, fermentation is very slow and not like other varieties. In the process, much less oxidized substances are formed, which differ from the oxidation products of oolongs, puer, green varieties. This explains such a peculiar taste inherent in 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 deliveries. The center is Fujian province, which is also famous for its red varieties and dark oolongs.

Most of the shrubs that provide raw materials for its production grow in Fuding County, not far from the UI mountains. Created here ideal conditions for a delicious harvest: delicate buds and young leaves. Clouds, fogs, dense forests, proximity to the coast ... vital energy anything.

Vegetation 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 shrubs 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 Okaichi provinces). In these countries, it is also highly regarded and produced primarily for export.

Chinese white tea

In view of the fact that the predominant volumes of this tea are produced in the Middle Kingdom, the issue of white tea from China will be relevant.

Collection and subtleties of production

Collection features, including seasonality and time of day, differ depending on the particular variety. Silver needles, for example, fall under the rule of ten prohibitions on picking leaves. They are not harvested 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 observance of these rules allows you to obtain a product with a special aroma and properties.

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

Simplicity lies in an unpretentious technological chain and minimal sheet processing in the process. The process includes only three stages:

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

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

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

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

Chinese white tea varieties

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 and not in the production technology (it is the same), but in the stage of leaf maturation. For example, for Bai Mu Dan, kidneys with two leaves are taken, for Silver needles, only kidneys are taken.

1. Bai Hao Yin Zhen. Honored leader in popularity and value. One of the 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, especially the British and the Dutch appreciated it. 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, interestingly changes when brewing. There are both loose and compressed Baimudan.
3. Shaw May (Elder's Eyebrows / Longevity Eyebrows) is an inexpensive seagull with a fresh fruity-floral taste.
4. Gong Mei is also an inexpensive white tea that combines the lightness of fruity and floral tones with the piquancy of roasted nuts and sugar.

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

Making tea from China

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

All this is relative. Don't forget that making white tea is a creative process, and tasting it is not only a delight, but also an exploration. Experiment: try brewing different varieties in different dishes, at different temperatures. For example, Bai Hao Yin Zhen opens up well in water of 100 degrees and is ideal for cooking over a fire.

But it is better to take filtered or spring water: on its basis, 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. Its slightest violation leads to the fact that the valuable substances of the leaf (antioxidants, minerals) simply do not get into the infusion, and, accordingly, the human body. Choose good tea, and you will be happy.

With regular consumption of white tea, 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 pressure;
• high cholesterol;
• high blood sugar.

And also about the "three counteractions": radiation, reproduction cancer cellsaging. Although the latter applies to almost all varieties of light tea.

Especially a lot positive feedback about white tea leave hypertensive people, people with overweight, gastrointestinal diseases and metabolic problems.

IN chinese medicine it is referred to as the element "metal". Hardness, purity, protection. But everything is fine in moderation, so you should not drink more than 2-3 cups a day, so as not to feel possible harm from white tea.

Influence on the human condition

Our energy burns out in the fire of stress and everyday hustle and bustle. And this is harmful to health. Tea helps to calm down and order thoughts, which means that it recharges forces and harmoniously balances between the external and internal world. White varieties will especially magically pacify. They are light and gentle, and therefore relax and harmonize without causing pressure surges and other unpleasant things.

Storage

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

White tea rightfully enjoys special respect among connoisseurs of this drink. Healing propertiesThe benefits of this drink have made this tea popular. But find quality tea with such useful properties it is difficult. The subtleties of collecting tea leaves, its processing, storage are not always observed at the proper level, and even one mistake in this delicate matter can kill the taste of the drink and spoil its useful properties. The benefits and harms of white tea, how to choose the right one, store it, as well as other nuances of this issue will be discussed further.

What is this tea

This type of tea is made exclusively from the buds and young leaves of the tea bush, which explains its beneficial properties. Moreover, not all tea bushes are suitable for this purpose. Only bushes that grow at high altitudes, under special climatic conditions, are suitable for collecting buds and young leaves in elite grade and will bring the very benefit. Then the beneficial properties will be complete, otherwise harm may be obtained.

Collection of buds, leaves (no more than 1-2) is carried out exclusively under clear weather conditions. Elite teas contain only young leaves collected during the first two hours of the morning, during two days of early spring or early autumn. It is when these conditions are met that the elite variety acquires those very useful properties.

The collected ingredients are processed minimally: 1 minute with steam, and then only natural drying under the sun. This approach gives the drink the very benefits that made it famous throughout the world, as well as the ability to neutralize harm from a harmful environment.

Important! Tea is called white due to the fact that in the process of careful assembly of processing, the villi on the tea leaves are not damaged whitethat cover them.

The Chinese call these villi "Bao Hao".

Types and varieties of white tea

There are 10 varieties of white tea, among them 4 main varieties:

1. Bai Mu Dan, for the preparation of this variety, the buds of tea bushes and 2 top leaves are used, while it is important that they are the same size. The tree from which the harvest takes place is called Da Bai Cha. Leaves are picked only from the first harvest. In this case, only the youngest, unblown leaves are used. The method of making this type of tea is very complicated, and it is passed on from father to son. The beneficial properties of tea leaves are amazing, especially its ability to neutralize harm from various diseases and free radicals.
2. "Silver Games" or Bai Hao Yin Zhen - very popular rare variety... The composition contains exclusively kidneys, covered with silvery villi. It is the pile that resembles needles that explains this unusual variety name.
3. "Elder's Eyebrows" or Show Mei - tea from buds or leaves from the top of the bushes. The difference with Bai Mu Dan lies in the timing of harvest, this variety is harvested a little later, has a more intense shade.
4. "Eyebrow Offering" or Gong Mei it has a special processing technology. Taste qualities have a characteristic saturation, and the leaves are more voluminous. Connoisseurs of tea drinks are advised to drink this one separately from meals, so as not to spoil its special taste.

Composition and calorie content of white tea

The raw materials that are used to make white tea and the processing methods make it possible to preserve all of its beneficial properties.

The chemical composition includes:

• group B vitamins, K, C, D;
• amino acids;
• tannin;
• essential oils;
• potassium, calcium, magnesium and many other beneficial elements.

The calorie content of white tea is very low, about 3-4 kcal per 100 g of drink.

Important! The difference between white and other types of tea is that white tea contains very little caffeine, so it will not have an exciting effect on the nervous system, but will calm and harm you.

Why is white tea useful for the body?

This tea is used as a substitute for medicines for physical and psychological ailments. The ancient Chinese believed that this broth has special propertiesthat other means do not have.

In those days, only the Emperor personally had the right to consume such a drink. And the Chinese sages called tea a “healing elixir”. Since tea is processed only with steam, it retains all the beneficial properties:

1. White tea contains vitamins, antioxidants and substances essential for the human body.
2. The drink contains beneficial substances that prevent harm from cancer cells.
3. In addition, the healing tea infusion will have a relaxing effect on human body... It is recommended to combat depression, fatigue, sleep problems.
4. The benefits of white tea for pregnant women are also very great, the drink is rich in substances with beneficial properties for the fetus, which are contained only in it.
5. Regular intake of white tea will strengthen the body, supply the human body with all the required vitamins and bring health benefits.
6. White teas are often recommended as an alternative medicines... It will help the body fight colds and even more serious illnesses.
7. Slimming white tea will be beneficial when combined with diet and physical activity... Thanks to the beneficial properties of the drink, the weight will go away much faster.
8. Tea will be beneficial in matters of rejuvenation, improving the appearance of the skin.
9. The beneficial properties of white tea will help to strengthen the enamel and roots of the teeth, will prevent harm from caries.
10. Regular consumption of white tea will benefit the body, thanks to its beneficial properties it helps to normalize pressure and heart activity.
11. Tea will benefit from preventing blood clots and lowering cholesterol levels, which are harmful to the body.
12. Contributes to the beneficial properties of white tea to improve vision and hearing.

Can pregnant women drink white tea?

During pregnancy, a woman's body requires a large amount of micro and macro elements, vitamins, antioxidants. All of these ingredients are found in white tea. That is why the inclusion of this drink in the diet of a pregnant woman will be of great benefit.

Important! Before drinking white tea, a woman expecting a baby should consult a doctor, this will exclude the possibility of harming the fetus.

How to brew white tea properly

When brewing white tea, it is important to proceed with care and attention. An overly strong drink should not be prepared.

Important! You can not brew white tea with boiling water, this will deprive the drink of all useful properties.

To brew white tea, you need clean filtered water, which is brought to a boil, left to cool for a while to obtain maximum benefitrather than harm. If the water was previously boiled, then it cannot be used for brewing, this will deprive the tea broth of its benefits. Water is poured into a preheated teapot made of porcelain or glass.

Important! In order to get benefit, not harm, you cannot use dishes made of other materials.

1 serving of tea requires 2 tablespoons of tea leaves. The brewing period depends on the variety of the tea. Typically, the average period is 5 minutes. This tea should not be brewed more than 3-4 times. Subject to all brewing standards, the drink will receive complete list beneficial properties, not harm.

If a person is healthy, does not have an increased sensitivity to caffeine, then doctors advise drinking 3-4 cups of white tea a day. More is allowed, provided you feel well.

Features of use for some diseases

This type of tea is not only a tasty, aromatic drink. It has a list of beneficial properties that can reduce harm with the progression of many diseases.

With pancreatitis

The drink will bring tangible benefits to persons suffering from pancreatitis. However, you should follow these rules:

1. The tea should not be made overly strong.
2. It is not recommended to add sugar, honey, milk, etc.
3. White tea should not contain dyes, herbs or other additives.

During the treatment of acute inflammation of the pancreas, you can drink up to 2 liters of tea per day. In the case of chronic inflammation, it is allowed to take up to 3-4 cups a day.

With gastritis

In case of exacerbation of peptic ulcer or gastritis, it is better to limit the amount of white tea to 200-300 ml per day. During the period of remission and subsiding of symptoms, you can use a weakly brewed drink in the usual amount.

With cholecystitis

The benefits of white tea are useful in exacerbating cholecystitis. Must be consumed up to 3 glasses warm tea every day until the symptoms of the disease are completely eliminated.

With increased pressure

White tea is a drink that is especially suitable for hypertensive patients with its beneficial properties. It is able to cleanse blood vessels, lower blood pressure, and lower cholesterol levels, which is very harmful. People with high blood pressure need to drink up to 3 cups of white tea without additives.

Important! When high blood pressure need to limit the number table salt in the diet up to 3 g per day.

With diabetes mellitus

In this type 1 and 2 disease, white tea will also be beneficial. The drink is low in calories and rich in vitamins and substances with beneficial properties. For maximum harm reduction, you need to drink 1 cup of white tea 30-40 minutes after meals, 3 times a day, for at least six months.

Benefits and uses of white tea for facial skin

White tea is included in various brands of cosmetics. It is also used in shower gels, creams, masks and tonics.

You can also make a face mask using white tea on your own at home. The results of such care will be noticeable after a few procedures.

1. To lighten the skin of the face, as well as remove age spots and even out the color, you will need such a face mask with white tea: the juice of 1 lemon is mixed with 25 g of sour cream and tea leaves. Apply the mixture on the face for 15 minutes.
2. To moisturize the skin in the hot season - white tea ice. To do this, pour 2 tablespoons of tea leaves with a glass of hot water. Leave to infuse for 10 minutes. Then strain and leave to cool. Pour into ice cube trays and send to freeze. Rubbing the skin of the face cosmetic ice will give it freshness and moisturize the skin.

Harm of white tea and contraindications

For healthy person this drink will not be able to harm, with the exception of individual intolerance.

Important! Do not give white tea to babies, the tannin in it can harm the baby.

For the following conditions, drinking white tea should be limited to one cup a day:

• stomach ulcer;
• gastritis;
• pancreatitis;
• cholecystitis;
• high blood pressure;
• insomnia.

How to choose and store white tea

Of course, it is best to buy Chinese white tea, its benefits will be maximum, since it is very problematic to find really high-quality tea in our country. The fact is that this elite grade of tea is very fragile and suffers greatly during transportation.

You should not buy large quantities of white tea right away, as its shelf life is very short. The best option will store the leaves in a ceramic jar with a tight lid.

Conclusion

The benefits and harms of white tea are obvious. The drink will be beneficial for many diseases. The beneficial substances in it are even able to neutralize harm from external influences. The main thing is to buy tea in trusted shops, not to store it for a very long time.

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For true admirers of tea, its white varieties, which are rightfully considered elite, are especially valuable. After all, this tea has a lot of healing properties. No wonder the Chinese call it "the drink of immortality." What is white tea, the benefits and harms of which have long been known in its homeland - China, you will learn from this article. First, let's see how this type of tea differs from others.

In China, this drink was considered imperial, only rich people could afford it. After all, it differs from other varieties of tea not only in taste, smell, properties and color, but also in the peculiarities of its collection and production. In addition, the product requires special conditions storage and transportation. All these factors ultimately determine its value, which has long been rather big.

White tea is grown only in one province of China - Fujian. And it is collected only two days a year (one day in April, and another in September). At the same time, it is collected by hand at a certain time - in the morning, strictly in the interval from 5 to 9 o'clock. True, today the product is grown in India, Vietnam, as well as Sri Lanka and some African countries, but white tea made in China is considered the most refined and therefore the most valuable.

Why does tea have this name? It is produced by harvesting tea buds, as well as the youngest leaves of the tea bush, which have a white coating, which determines the name of the product. More precisely, these are not even leaves, but arrows emanating from a tea bud. They are called tips.

The most valuable is tea made from one or two young, not yet blossoming top leaves of a tea bush. To make 1 kilogram of elite white tea, you need to collect more than a hundred thousand tips. This is why the product has such a high price tag.

Persons collecting the product should have sterile clean hands, and their breath should be fresh: without admixtures of spices and herbs, because these factors can affect the taste and aroma of tea. Also, during the preparation of white tea, they are prohibited from using perfumery and cosmetics.

Unlike black and green tea, this type of tea undergoes minimal heat treatment, as a result of which the product retains maximum amount useful substances. To do this, first, for a minute, the tea leaves are steamed and then sent for drying. Less valuable white teas may ferment slightly. All this is done by hand. The finished tea should not contain damaged or darkened leaves, their color should remain greenish-gray, and their bottom should be light, grayish-white.

The most popular varieties of white tea in China today are considered to be "white peony", which in dry form resembles small unblown flowers, as well as "silver needles" tea, which is recognized by doctors around the world as a natural antidepressant. The procurement and storage of such a product is special, so it is not available to everyone: the cost of 1 kilogram of such tea is about 1000 US dollars.

Less expensive varieties of white tea also have beneficial properties. As a rule, they are made from raw materials discarded during the production of elite tea and are sold already crushed. However, this tea also has refined taste and aroma.

White tea, benefits and harms

The benefits and harms of white tea determined by his wealthy biochemical composition, which includes antioxidants, phenolic compounds (tannin and catechin), caffeine, various vitamins, minerals and other health benefits.

The main healing properties white tea:

• due to the content of natural antioxidants, the product contributes to the elasticity of the walls of blood vessels, which has a positive effect on the state of the cardiovascular system, and also prevents the development of oncological diseases;
• the catechins included in its composition eliminate cholesterol, which minimizes the risk of a disease such as thrombosis;
• the presence of fluorides contributes to the preservation of tooth enamel, prevents the appearance of tartar and protects teeth from decay;
• the combination of glutamic acid and phosphorus compounds has a positive effect on the state of the nervous system, soothes and relieves chronic fatigue;
• the presence of caffeine gives the drink invigorating properties that persist throughout the day;
• antibacterial and immuno-strengthening properties, which is especially valuable during the period of a surge in colds;
• due to the presence of vitamin P, the drink promotes rapid blood clotting, as well as the healing of various wounds;
• white tea is great for quenching thirst;
• the epigallocatechins included in the product do an excellent job of normalizing metabolism, which contributes to fast and effective weight loss.

Could there be any harm from drinking white tea? By taking this drink in moderation, you can have no fear negative consequences from his reception. But its use in large quantities, like any other product, can harm the body. First of all, this applies to women who are expecting a baby, as well as nursing mothers. Theophylline contained in white tea, as well as caffeine, can overexcite the nervous system of the fetus or baby, which can adversely affect the formation of their nervous system, as well as the functioning of the heart.

White tea is contraindicated in the following cases:

• the presence of peptic ulcer, as well as increased acidity of the stomach;
• acute stage of kidney and genitourinary system diseases, as well as the presence of kidney stones;
• increased blood pressure;
• increased excitability of the nervous system and insomnia.

How to brew white tea correctly?

In order to get the maximum benefit and minimum harm to your health when taking a drink, you need to be able to properly prepare white tea. In this case, all factors should be taken into account that will help preserve all of its healing properties. This is primarily the temperature and quality of the water used for brewing, the storage conditions of the product, as well as the material of the dishes in which the drink will be brewed.

Basic rules for brewing white tea:

1. The water is brought to a boil and allowed to cool to 60-70 degrees. In no case should you brew tea with boiling water, which will not only destroy all its beneficial properties, but also worsen its taste and aroma. It is best to use soft water, as hard water will not change the taste of the tea for the better.
2. Before the brewing process, a glass or ceramic teapot is rinsed with boiling water and two pinches of dry tea leaves are placed there for each cup. Do not use metal utensils for brewing, as this will distort the taste of the drink.
3. The tea leaves are poured with water, leaving a place in the kettle.
4. The drink is infused for 3-5 minutes and poured into cups.

You can brew white tea three times. It is believed that it is during its second brewing that its exquisite taste and subtle aroma are revealed to the maximum. The infusion time of the drink when brewing it again should be a couple of minutes.

The taste of white tea is self-sufficient, so it is drunk in pure formwithout adding sweeteners, milk and other additives to it. To fully enjoy the taste of the drink, you should not drink it with baked goods or other sweets.

White tea, the benefits and harms of which have long been studied by experts, will not only amaze you with its interesting taste and aroma, but even if taken correctly will give you vigor and well-being for all day!

White tea is not a cheap drink. For its production, only certain varieties of buds and young leaves of tea bushes are needed. They only grow in China in very small numbers. Previously, this drink could only be consumed by members of the imperial family and high-ranking persons as a sign of great favor from the ruler. Ordinary people white tea was not available at all for a long time.

The value of the drink is that the raw materials for it cannot be grown in the territories of other countries. Now there are white tea plantations only in Fujian province in China in the mountains at an altitude of 1000 m above sea level. Attempts to grow tea in the mountainous areas of other countries each time ended in failure: the collected raw materials were several orders of magnitude inferior to the original. Despite this, in some areas of India and Sri Lanka, bushes of such varieties still continue to be grown, but chinese tea still remains out of competition.

Collecting white tea is painstaking work, since only the top leaves and buds need to be plucked. It is forbidden to use any technique, collection is done only manually. Workers are prohibited from eating foods with strong odors and smoking so that tea leaves do not absorb foreign aromas.

White tea contains many beneficial substances:

• b vitamins;
• vitamin C;
• amino acids;
• tannins;
• essential oils;
• a large number of micro and macro elements.

The calorie content is very low - 100 g of the product contains only 3-4 kcal. The amount of caffeine is minimal, for this reason it does not have an exciting effect on the nervous system.

The taste is refreshing and light, with well-visible floral notes, it does not leave behind a heavy aftertaste.

Health Benefits of White Tea

We can talk about the benefits of the drink for a long time. Many people know how useful green tea, but white is significantly superior in many ways. During the production of tea is not allowed heat treatment, therefore, all valuable substances are not lost, but remain in full force. Freshly harvested raw materials are only kept for a minute for a couple and then dried naturally in the sun. The leaves do not crumple or curl, this avoids the bitter taste in the finished drink. The rest of the details of production are kept secret and not disclosed.

The list of useful properties of the drink is quite extensive.

It has a positive effect on the entire body:

• helps in the fight against excess weight;
• prevents the development of atherosclerosis;
• improves complexion;
• relieves fatigue;
• calms the nervous system, neutralizes harmful effect stress;
• strengthens the immune system;
• enhances blood clotting;
• has a beneficial effect on the heart and blood vessels;
• removes toxins and toxins;
• neutralizes the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation;
• strengthens the walls of blood vessels, preventing varicose veins veins;
• inhibits the development of cancer cells.

It is not for nothing that the Chinese call this drink the elixir of youth and immortality - it regular use helps to maintain good spirits and health of the body, even in old age.

The drink is very good in the heat, it perfectly refreshes and quenches thirst. It is advisable to drink it between meals without eating anything. Cakes, rolls, and sweets are best left as an addition to other drinks. White tea does not tolerate any additives.

What is useful for women

The drink will be especially useful for women who want to lose those extra pounds. It activates metabolic processes, which entails rapid burning internal fat... It helps you lose weight without special effortswithout changing the diet and simply consuming several cups a day. But if, in addition to this, you still follow a diet, the effect will be noticeable immediately. Not only fat deposits will go away, but also health will be strengthened, and the body will be rejuvenated.

White tea extracts are often used as an active ingredient in cosmetics. The antioxidants present in their composition effectively fight free radicals that contribute to aging and metabolic disorders.

For men

For men, he gives strength and energy with physical and mental stress. A cup of tea at the end of the working day is able to relieve the accumulated fatigue, and the person again feels vigorous.

What are the types of drink

Tea is called white, since only young leaves and buds with thick white fluff are used for its preparation.

The most common varieties:

• Bai Hao Yin Zhen. Translated, this name sounds like "white silver needles". Tea is made only from the kidneys. Dry tea leaves resemble small silver arrows. Ready drink has the color of light caramel. The taste is delicate, with a slight sourness.
• Bai Mu Dan... The name can be translated as "white peony". The composition contains both buds and young leaves. The dried raw material resembles miniature peony flowers. After brewing, it takes on a golden hue. On the palate, you can recognize vanilla and caramel notes.
• Show May. Tea leaves are harvested later and subject to a longer processing time, so they are dark in color. The drink is dark amber with a characteristic herbal taste.
• Gong Mei. This is the cheapest option for white tea. It is made from damaged leaves and buds left over from premium varieties. Tea is sold in crushed form, but it also has an elegant taste and delicate aroma.

Even the Chinese themselves drink tea Bai Hao Yin Zhen very rarely, only on holidays and special celebrations, since the prices for it are exorbitant. White Peony tea is a little cheaper, so it can be bought large quantity people. The high price is quite justified: manual selection of each leaf and bud, careful storage and complex transportation require considerable investments.

White oolong tea is considered semi-fermented. It has nothing to do with real varieties of white tea, as it is intermediate between black and green. It is often called dairy, as it has a pleasant caramel flavor with milky shades.

White tea: instructions for use

To fully enjoy the taste of the drink, you need to know how to brew tea correctly. Even the dishes in which the drink is made play an important role. Perfect option - porcelain teapot and cups. But you can also use glassware.

How to make white tea

In no case should the water be boiled, it only needs to be brought to a temperature of 80 degrees, otherwise it will turn into a dead liquid that does not bring any benefit. Tea can be brewed 3-4 times, it does not lose its taste properties, but only reveals them from different sides.

Take 3-4 grams of dry tea leaves for 150 ml of water.

First, warm up the dishes by rinsing with boiling water. This will give an opportunity to "wake up" the poured tea leaves. Then the tea leaves are poured hot water and immediately pour it out. Zero tea leaves are not intended for drinking, but for rinsing the tea leaves. This helps to reveal their taste and aroma to the fullest. After that, poured into the container hot water and insist. It is not necessary to brew tea for more than 2-3 minutes, in some cases 60 seconds is enough. Correctly brewed beverage is clear and yellowish, greenish or beige color... It is not worth adding sugar, as a last resort, the tea can be sweetened with honey.

Tea can also be brewed in a cold way: for this, pour the leaves with water in the evening. room temperature and leave until morning. This method allows you to preserve the maximum of nutrients in the drink. The benefits of brewed tea lasts for a long time - 18-20 hours.

Use for various diseases

The Chinese consider white tea to be an effective prophylactic against ARVI, colds and flu. In the cold season, it is advisable to drink it regularly, or at least during the spread of colds viral diseases.

The drink well removes the intoxication of the body and removes toxic substances, therefore it is recommended to use it in case of various kinds of poisoning instead of water.

Drink white tea:

• at risk of oncological diseases;
• when consumed a large number sugar and the threat of tooth decay;
• if you are overweight;
• with constant stress and chronic fatigue.

It is good to drink tea during festive feasts... It will help the body cope with the abundance of food and digest it faster.

You should not drink more than 2-3 cups of white tea a day. This amount is quite enough to make a person feel healthier and stronger.

How to store it correctly

It is not worth storing tea for a long time. It is better to use it immediately, while it still retains its freshness and intense aroma.

If you still need to store it for a long time, transfer it to a hermetically sealed bag, placing it in a dry, dark place without strong foreign odors.

Who is the drink contraindicated, and what harm does it do?

One of the most important benefits of white tea is that it has virtually no contraindications. Almost everyone can drink it, except for people with an individual intolerance to the product.

People with kidney disease, gastritis, stomach ulcers, insomnia and diabetes need to drink tea carefully, monitoring their well-being. Such people should not drink more than 0.5-1 cups per day. Tea pressure can rise, so it is better not to use it for hypertensive patients.

You can buy tea in specialized tea shops that work directly with manufacturers. It is difficult to find a quality product in ordinary departments, since white tea is considered an exclusive product.