Puerh tea useful properties how to brew. Useful properties of pu-erh tea

The Chinese are an inventive and practical people who have given the world many varieties of tea. Thanks to them, a whole tea culture was born and flourished with its legends, connoisseurs, technologies, and classification. One of the most famous and unusual varieties of Chinese tea - pu-erh, is invariably in the center of attention of gourmets, doctors, nutritionists and just curious people. What are the features, useful and not very properties of this product, the article will tell.

A bit of history

Each variety of Chinese tea has its own legend of origin, and sometimes even several. Pu-erh was no exception. A long and flowery story with many details tells how the tea intended as a gift to the emperor accidentally got wet in the rain. But instead of falling into disrepair, cakes made from pressed tea leaves acquired an unusual taste and aroma. The emperor, a great gourmet, highly appreciated the wonderful drink, and since then the technology for the production of pu-erh tea has been developed and improved.

It is not known if this was actually the case. But the connection between the invention of pu-erh and long caravan journeys, during which changes in humidity and temperature cannot be avoided, seems obvious. It is they - humidity and temperature - that trigger a special process of "ripening" tea leaf which can last up to twenty years or longer. At the same time, not only the color and smell of tea leaves change, but also chemical composition(and hence the properties of the drink).

The first documented mention of pu-erh tea dates back to the 7th century BC. It also has a geographic reference - a traditional area where this product has been grown and produced for centuries. Today it is called the Chinese provinces of Yunnan, Guizhou and Sichuan. This historical region also covers the northern territories of Laos, and Burma.

Production technology and types

There are many varieties of pu-erh, but the most basic classification distinguishes between two main types - shu-puerh and shen-puerh. What is the difference?

Shen Puer

It matures naturally, without the use of technologies that speed up the process. Manufacturing includes the following steps:

• Collection of tea tree leaves (traditional technology suggests that the trees must be old). This work is done by hand, very carefully. According to the type of leaves (large old leaf, young leaves and buds), the raw material is divided into different grades.
• Drying the collected sheet. The material is scattered in a sunny place so that the leaves slightly wilted and softened. Usually diffused sunlight is used for this, the procedure takes about 2 hours.
• Shaqing - "fixing the green". The tea leaf is exposed to high temperatures in order to stop the process of natural fermentation in it. For this, for example, frying the leaves with constant stirring is used.
• Twisting. It is carried out using special equipment. In this case, the leaves are crushed and secrete juice.

The more juice is released, the richer the taste of tea will be.

• Drying (in the sun or in a special room with good ventilation).
• Pressing into pancakes, cakes, tablets, bricks and other forms. Then the tea briquettes are dried a little more and wrapped in rice paper.
• Natural maturation (can last up to 20-30 years).

Young shen pu-erh is light greenish in color. The whole process (from collecting leaves to sending pressed and packaged tea for “ripening”) fits into one day.

Pressed pu-erh is stored under special conditions: at a controlled temperature and humidity. During the "post-fermentation" - the ripening of tea in the form of pancakes and bricks, the quality of pu-erh becomes better and better every year. At the same time, the tea leaf changes color to a darker one, and its taste becomes deeper and more intense.

The price of sheng pu-erh also grows depending on the age of the tea, and reaches very significant amounts. Some rare collection varieties are even forbidden to be exported from China.

Shu Puer

It is made using an accelerated technology developed at the end of the 20th century. The traditional way production is rather slow, it could not satisfy the increased demand for pu-erh, so the Chinese learned how to speed up the fermentation process.

Shu-pu-erh ripens in "wet heaps": the raw tea leaf is covered with a film and kept for several months at a certain temperature, stirring from time to time with shovels. When the raw material reaches the desired stage of fermentation, it is sorted and pressed.

The production of such pu-erh is more massive, and it costs less.

Although the manufacturers claim that it does not have any special differences from Shen Puer, this is not entirely true. Connoisseurs and connoisseurs confidently distinguish between shu and shen, and value the latter much higher.

In free sale, mainly shu-puer is presented, the prices for it are relatively acceptable. Shen is an elite tea, in Russia the cost of one pancake ranges from several thousand to tens of thousands of rubles (depending on the variety, year, region of origin, factory and other parameters). However, in specialized stores and on a number of sites it is possible to purchase this premium pu-erh.

Beneficial features

Puer is a mature tea with a rich composition. It contains all the valuable substances:

• vitamins (A, E, P, PP, ascorbic acid, a number of B vitamins);
• minerals (fluorine, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, zinc and others);
• amino acids (about 17 items, including L-theanine);
• alkaloids (theine, theobromine);
• proteins, fats and carbohydrates;
• tannins;
• polyphenols;
• organic acids.

This special "aged" tea has a strong effect on the body. Its beneficial effects on health can be felt by both men and women. Among beneficial effects can be called:

• Stimulating. Pu-erh invigorates and fills with energy. In some cases, even a state of mild euphoria is described.
• Nootropic. Tea activates the brain. It helps to concentrate, accelerates reaction, promotes better memorization of information.
• Diuretic. Reduces puffiness, promotes weight loss.
• Pu-erh speeds up metabolism, which also helps to get rid of extra pounds.
• Antioxidant. Helps maintain youthful skin, prevents the development of cancerous tumors.
• The drink regulates blood sugar levels, reduces the amount of bad cholesterol. Helps improve the condition of the blood in general.
• Removes toxic substances, salts of heavy metals and even radioactive elements.
• According to reviews, displays the decay products of alcohol.
• Improves the condition of the respiratory system, helps to cope with respiratory diseases.
• It has a beneficial effect on digestion, helps cleanse the intestines.
• Pu-erh prevents the development of caries, strengthens teeth.
• Improves liver function, accelerates the regeneration of its cells.
• For women, a pleasant bonus will be the improvement of hair, nails and skin.
• According to some reports, pu-erh contributes to the treatment of erectile dysfunction and has a positive effect on potency. This is one of the reasons why tea is especially beneficial for men.
• The drink reduces blood viscosity and the tendency to thrombosis.

Contraindications

Like any potent product, pu-erh is fraught with a number of dangers. It is better to refuse the use of this valuable tea:

• pregnant and lactating women (especially at the beginning of gestation and the first months of lactation);
• hypertensive patients (because pu-erh increases blood pressure);
• with urolithiasis (the pronounced diuretic effect of pu-erh can seriously harm with such a diagnosis);
• with atherosclerosis (damaged vessels may not withstand increased load);
• with ulcers, gastritis and pancreatitis in the acute stage (during periods of remission, small doses are acceptable, but only on a full stomach);
• with cholelithiasis (the choleretic effect of pu-erh can provoke the movement of stones and lead to the table to the surgeon);
• patients with glaucoma;
• children under 12;
• at high temperature (tea has the ability to raise the temperature, it interferes with the action of antipyretic drugs).

ADVICE! You should not drink pu-erh before going to bed, because its tonic effect can lead to insomnia.

Fans of pu-erh tea are wondering if it can be given to children. Experts differ on this issue. Some do not recommend this drink until the age of 12, others are more loyal to the issue. In any case, for children (strictly over 6 years old), 1 cup of weak pu-erh per day is enough, if there are no contraindications.

Storage and preparation

Pu-erh is a rather “sensitive” product, its condition is affected by sunlight, humidity, strong odors, dust or grease. Therefore, it is recommended to store briquettes in a dry place, in the shade, best of all in sealed packaging or special wooden boxes with a tightly fitted lid.

The appearance of a white coating on the tea “press” indicates that the product is spoiled and cannot be further consumed.

For thousands of years, a whole culture has formed around this tea. Special rules regulate not only the manufacturing process, but also the rules for storage, the ritual of brewing and drinking. Connoisseurs of the drink use special utensils (you can buy them in tea shops): boards and knives for pu-erh, storage boxes, teapots and cups. This tea does not tolerate haste and fuss. It requires calmness and concentration on the process.

The recipe for preparing the drink is different for pu-erh of varying degrees of maturity. The older the tea, the hotter the brewing water is used. The teapot is advised to use clay, glass or porcelain.

The cooking algorithm for all types of pu-erh is approximately the same:

• the kettle needs to be rinsed hot water;
• break off a piece from the briquette with a special knife or hands (the size depends on the desired strength of the drink), put it in a teapot;
• pour hot water (from 80 to 95 degrees, depending on the “maturity” of the tea), pour it out after a few seconds (this will wash the sheets from dust and dirt, slightly steam them);
• again pour hot water, leave for about 1 minute.

This is not the only way, if you wish, you can find algorithms for more complex "tea ceremonies" that turn pu-erh brewing into an art.

The color and taste of the finished drink varies and depends on the raw materials used. Young pu-erh gives a light infusion, its taste is characterized by notes of dried fruits. More mature tea is brewed into a dark drink with notes of chocolate and nuts in the aroma. up to 5 times, with each tea leaves the taste changes, revealing new facets.

(after about half an hour). Consuming on an empty stomach can cause stomach pain and heartburn.

IMPORTANT! Moderation is important when drinking tea. In case of an overdose, headache, nausea and discomfort in the intestines may occur.

In China Puer tea is one of the most popular means traditional medicine: there is even a list of 22 of its "officially recognized" virtues. In other countries, the use of pu-erh for healing is not as common, but many gourmets and adherents healthy eating appreciated its properties and included this drink in their daily diet. Novice tea connoisseurs should get to know the benefits and harms of such a product better.

Origin and production of Chinese Pu-erh

Chinese Pu-erh tea is very popular not only in China, but all over the world. This is a special tea drink that undergoes special processing and requires certain storage conditions. China is considered the birthplace of pu-erh, although some varieties are grown in Vietnam, Thailand and Laos.

Initially, pu-erh was made from special species of large-leaved tea tree, which grows only in Yunnan province. All the tea grown there is called "puer cha", which translates as "tea from the puer leaf" from one of the Chinese dialects.

It takes years to produce good pu-erh, and this is largely due to the peculiarities of growing tea trees.

Now, for the manufacture of each variety of pu-erh, leaves are collected from several bushes, dried to the state of green tea and subjected to fermentation - a procedure that ensures rapid artificial aging of the leaves. Thanks to this method of preparation, tea can be stored for years and even decades, and the older the product, the more valuable and expensive it is. Over time, the taste of pu-erh becomes deeper and richer. For this specific aroma, pu-erh is often called earthen tea.

Fermentation occurs as follows: the collected leaves are formed into piles of a certain size, sprinkled with water and aged for 50–100 days. Then the tea is dried and aged for another year so that it acquires healing properties and subtle taste. finished product is a dense pressed bars, from which you need to cut off a small piece to prepare fresh tea leaves.

Pu-erh varieties and types differ in the proportions of leaves collected from young and old bushes, as well as in the characteristics of fermentation and aging. Sometimes flavorings are added to pu-erh, but among true connoisseurs, the use of such tea is considered bad manners: they prefer the natural specific taste of the drink.

Composition per 100 g

1 tsp = 1 g of dry tea.

The energy value

vitamins

Minerals

In tea shops, pu-erh is sold in the form of "flat cakes", bars, balls and objects of other shapes.

Pu-erh varieties

It will not be easy for a beginner to choose the right variety from the whole variety.

Produced from top sprouts with several leaves. Fermented only in a natural way - years of aging. The most labor-intensive method of production, and, therefore, this type of pu-erh is the most expensive. Over the years of storage, it becomes darker, changing color from greenish to amber and dark brown. It has a sweetish taste and a complex aroma with hints of smoke, forest and berries.

It is produced by artificial fermentation, so it does not take years to make it. It has a coarser taste compared to green pu-erh; differs in aroma with notes of chocolate, wood and dried fruits.

Important: green and black pu-erh- these are types of tea, other varieties can be either green or black; some cultivars are of both types.

It is made from pressed buds from old perennial bushes. It brews and opens very quickly and strongly, has a herbal aroma and a long aftertaste, similar to dried fruits. Soft creamy taste aromas are added to the drink.

It has all the useful properties of pu-erh, but, unlike the "pure" varieties, it does not have such a specific aroma. Due to the sweetish caramel flavor and smell, white pu-erh has gained great popularity among women.

Produced from the top shoots of young trees; it is fermented, as a rule, in a natural way - by many years of aging. It has a unique ability to adapt to the needs of the body: weakly brewed (up to 30 seconds) royal pu-erh helps to relax in a tense state, a stronger one promotes concentration and helps to "get together". It tastes like a walnut with hints of prunes and honey.

It comes in both black and green. Its main feature: the leaves for its production are collected only from wild tea trees, and not from specially grown ones. It differs from other varieties in the absence of a characteristic bitterness, its taste resembles a combination of dark chocolate, nuts and dried fruits.

One of the most expensive and valuable varieties - it undergoes double fermentation and is aged for several years. It has a complex taste and aroma with notes of chocolate, wood, nuts and grapes, and flavorings are never used in its production.

Varieties in the photo

Small dull brown leaves turn into rich cognac-colored tea.

Dark lumps the size of beans give the drink a deep brown color.

Almost black, carefully dried leaves, when brewed, turn into a drink similar in color to strong black tea.

Small dark brown leaves with a hint of ocher, when brewed, turn into a bright drink, similar in color to honey.

Large white and pale green leaves produce a light amber tea when brewed.

The tea leaves are dark in color, the leaves are quite large and fleshy. The finished drink resembles cognac in color.

When dry, it has a dark, slightly “dusty” shade; brewed tea transparent, pale yellow

Useful properties for men and women

• removes toxins from the body, including after food and alcohol poisoning;
• relieves a hangover;
• cleanses the intestines even from old "deposits";
• improves digestion and helps break down heavy and fatty foods;
• facilitates the work of the liver and contributes to its recovery, even with such serious diseases as cirrhosis;
• normalizes the work of the genitourinary system;
• lowers cholesterol and blood sugar levels;
• improves the acid-base balance of the blood;
• tones up and gives a charge of vivacity, comparable to the use of energy drinks;
• improves emotional state and stress resistance;
• in men improves potency and helps fight erectile dysfunction;
• improves the condition of the skin, hair and nails, which is especially important for women;
• strengthens tooth enamel and prevents the development of caries;
• promotes weight loss without correcting the diet and physical activity;
• is a powerful antioxidant and blocks a protein involved in the development of cancer.

Contraindications and potential harm

• Pressure problems: hypertension, low blood pressure, arrhythmia. Pu-erh actively affects the functioning of the cardiovascular system: a strong drink can increase blood pressure, and a weak one can lower it. The difficulty is that its effect on the body is very individual, and an error in dosage or preparation can lead to increased heart health problems.
• Atherosclerosis: despite the fact that this drink has a beneficial effect on the condition of blood vessels, it does not heal already affected areas. From the use of pu-erh, the load on the vessels and capillaries increases, and with atherosclerosis it is very dangerous.
• With exacerbation of kidney disease and gastrointestinal tract You can't drink puer. In the chronic phase, up to 200 ml per day is allowed, but not on an empty stomach.
• Colds: pu-erh raises body temperature and interferes with the action of antipyretics for colds;
• caffeine intolerance.
• Glaucoma.
• First trimester of pregnancy and first 6 months of breastfeeding.

Rules of use for the benefit of the body

The tea ceremony is a whole science, and only an experienced master can observe all the rituals.

You can drink no more than 400 ml of pu-erh per day, i.e. no more than 2 cups. Exceeding the norm can harm health and lead to "tea intoxication" - a condition close to alcohol poisoning.

Cooking recipe, at what temperature to brew

• 4 g of tea (4 tsp);
• 200 ml hot water (over 95°C).

It is better to break off tea from a briquette immediately before preparation, it should be stored in a briquette, and not in bulk - this does not allow the aroma to disappear.

Important: for brewing and drinking pu-erh, it is better to use glass or earthenware.

There is a whole ritual of drinking pu-erh, which is very reverent among fans of Chinese culture.

How many times can you do

Pu-erh can be brewed up to 5 times, and the first two tea leaves must be drained to rinse the tea and help it “open up”. The duration of the first two brews should not exceed 5 seconds, the next time the infusion time can be increased to 1 minute, but no more.

When and how to drink, is it possible on an empty stomach or at night

It is advisable to drink pu-erh 30 minutes after eating, because. drinking it on an empty stomach can lead to heartburn and stomach cramps due to the high acidity of the drink. It is not worth adding sugar to pu-erh and "jamming" it with something - this will significantly weaken the usefulness of tea and interfere with cleansing the body.

Strong pu-erh should not be drunk at night, it can interfere with healthy sleep. A weaker drink in a small amount (no more than 50 g) 3-4 hours before bedtime, on the contrary, will help you calm down and fall asleep quickly after a busy day.

Is it allowed to drive

Despite the fact that an overdose of pu-erh resembles alcohol intoxication in terms of symptoms (dizziness, nausea, incoordination), drivers are not forbidden to use it. On the contrary, in reasonable doses, tea improves concentration, which is very important while driving. The main thing is not to use more than 200 ml at a time.

The effect of pu-erh on the body under various factors

If you have any problems with blood pressure and you don’t know exactly how the pu-erh variety that you are going to treat works, it’s better not to experiment and refuse such a tea party

Does it cause allergies

Despite the fact that manufacturers of famous teas, such as Shen Puer's Shu Puer, claim that tea does not cause allergies, you should still be careful, as cases have been recorded. In this case, an overdose is often called an allergy.

During pregnancy

During the first trimester, you should not drink pu-erh, because. its tonic effect extends to the uterus, which is very dangerous for the fetus. During the 2nd and 3rd trimester, you can drink up to 100 ml per day, if there are no medical contraindications.

During breastfeeding

Until the baby is 6 months old, it is better for mom not to drink pu-erh, because. from such "energetic" milk, the child may become more irritable, begin to sleep worse. Pu-erh can be given to children from 3 years old, 50 ml a couple of times a week.

With pancreatitis

During the chronic course of the disease, you can drink up to 300 ml of pu-erh per day, it has a beneficial effect on the work of the pancreas and facilitates its work. With an exacerbation, pu-erh should be discarded.

With diabetes

Pu-erh reduces the amount of sugar in the blood, therefore, in case of diabetes, doctors themselves recommend drinking it. The maximum daily dose is 400 ml.

With cholecystitis

Pu-erh has a choleretic effect, therefore, in case of problems with the gallbladder, it should be used very carefully and only after consulting a doctor. If there are stones in the gallbladder, you definitely shouldn’t drink pu-erh, because. this may cause them to move.

With gastritis

AT acute phase pu-erh disease is contraindicated, but in chronic gastritis it helps to normalize the acidity of the stomach and relieves symptoms. Moreover, Puer can be drunk even for ulcers (not during an exacerbation). The maximum dose per day is 200 ml.

During the diet

Pu-erh is a great helper in losing weight, its use during a diet will speed up weight loss and add vigor. In addition, it helps to rid the body of toxins and toxins, which is also very important for gaining a slim figure.

Pu-erh helps to lose and control weight, which is probably why there are practically no overweight Chinese women.

Weight loss with pu-erh: a weekly diet

For a week of drinking pu-erh in combination with proper nutrition You can lose up to 5 kg of weight. At the same time, you will not need to severely limit yourself in food or disappear for hours in the gym - the weight will simply gradually go away.

You should stick to such a diet for a week, then you need to take a week break. Repeat if necessary.

Important: you do not need to drink food, tea should be drunk 30 minutes after eating.

Despite the centuries-old history of pu-erh tea, it has become popular only recently. Now it is one of the trendy and sought-after drinks. It can be found in many outlets in the form of the usual loose tea or in the form of compressed briquettes.

There are more than 120 varieties of pu-erh tea, but among them there are 2 types - shen and shu. The first type is made traditional technology and undergoes natural fermentation. After processing and pressing, it is aged in dry rooms for several years. During this time, microbes, interacting with tea leaves, endow them with special qualities and properties. The taste of fresh shen pu-erh is sharp and viscous, but over time, with proper storage, its taste changes for the better. The optimal aging time for this type of tea is 20 years or more. Elite varieties of the drink can be aged even for 300 years.

For the production of shu pu-erh tea, a fast manufacturing method is used - artificial fermentation. Thanks to her, the leaves reach the desired state in a few months. A drink made from such raw materials comes out dark and resembles sheng aged 15-20 years, but is somewhat inferior in taste and is not a unique product. Now, due to the large demand for pu-erh, producers are using cheap and fast way fermentation, so shu pu-erh tea is mainly found on sale, while shen is difficult to find.

Benefits of pu-erh tea

The Chinese call pu-erh tea a remedy for a hundred diseases, and consider it a drink of longevity, harmony and youth. It is one of the few teas that people with ulcers can drink. The drink helps with various digestive disorders, it is recommended to take it for dyspepsia, poisoning, and include it in the complex therapy of colitis, duodenitis and gastritis. Pu-erh tea can remove plaque from the mucous membranes, improve the absorption of food and intestinal motility. It can be drunk even with exacerbations of gastrointestinal diseases, but in this case the drink should be only slightly warm, but not hot.

Puer is a tonic. In terms of its effect on the body, it can be compared with strong energy drinks. It improves attention and concentration, and also clarifies thoughts, so it will be useful for those who are engaged in mental work.

Puer tea, beneficial features which was appreciated not only in China, but throughout the world. Modern scientists have confirmed the beneficial effect of the drink on the composition of the blood. Regular consumption of tea will reduce and prevent diseases of the vessels and heart. It can become an indispensable product for diabetics, as it reduces the percentage of sugar in the blood. Pu-erh tea also helps to cleanse the body. It eliminates waste and toxins, cleanses the liver and improves the functioning of the spleen and gallbladder.

Scientists have proven the benefits of pu-erh tea for weight loss. A lot of research has been done in France. After the drink began to be used as the basis or one of the components of dietary programs. It reduces appetite, speeds up metabolism and promotes the breakdown of fat cells.

Pu-erh black tea is suitable for the preparation of wellness mixtures. For example, in China it is combined with roses and chrysanthemums. Such additives not only endow the drink medicinal properties, but also give the opportunity to give its taste and aroma new shades.

How to prepare pu-erh tea

Depending on how tea is prepared, it can affect a person in different ways. For example, a brewed drink tones, and a brewed one soothes.

Cooking

For this method of preparation, it is recommended to use a glass teapot, this will allow you to better control the stages of preparation of the drink. First you need to prepare the water for making tea. Put the kettle on the fire and when tiny bubbles appear from the bottom, scoop out a cup of water from the kettle and refill it when there are thumps that precede boiling.

Despite the centuries-old history of pu-erh tea, it began to enjoy great popularity in the world relatively recently. Today it is one of the most fashionable and sought-after drinks. It can be found in many specialized outlets in the form of loose tea familiar to us or in the form of pressed briquettes.

In general, there are more than one hundred and twenty varieties of pu-erh tea, but among them there are two main types - shen and shu. The first type of tea is made according to traditional technology and undergoes natural fermentation. After special treatment and pressing, it is aged in dry rooms for several years. During this time, microbes, interacting with tea leaves, endow them with special qualities and properties. The taste of fresh sheng pu-erh is usually sharp and somewhat viscous, but over time, with proper storage, its taste characteristics change for the better. The most optimal aging time for this type of tea is twenty years or more. Elite varieties of such a drink can be aged even for more than three centuries.

For the production of shu pu-erh tea, a faster manufacturing method is used - artificial fermentation. Thanks to her, the leaves reach the desired state in just a few months. A drink made from such raw materials comes out dark and very much resembles sheng aged for 15-20 years, but, nevertheless, is somewhat inferior in taste and, of course, is not a unique product. Now, due to the high demand for pu-erh, manufacturers often use a cheaper and faster fermentation method, so it is shu pu-erh tea that is mainly found on sale, while shen is quite difficult to find.

Composition of pu-erh tea

calories

100 ml of finished Pu-erh tea contains 1-2 kcal. And the daily calorie intake for an adult of active age and normal physique averages 2200 kcal per day.

Table of measurements in mass and calories of dry Pu-erh tea:

The nutritional value

The beneficial properties of this drink are explained by the fact that it contains amino acids, alkaloids, saccharides, vitamins, minerals, statins. This helps tea stimulate the work of internal organs, including the liver. And it is known that the liver contributes to the healing and rejuvenation of the body from the inside and out. Thanks to alkaloids (theine, theobromine, theophylline), body cells are actively saturated with oxygen, blood vessels expand and brain function is activated.

The energy value product in grams (g) per 100 g:

Macronutrients	Content (gr.)	%Daily Value
Squirrels	20	18,6
Fats	6,9	6,4
unsaturated fats	2,1	1,8
monounsaturated fats	1,7	1,5
Polyunsaturated fats	1,3	1,1
Carbohydrates	6,9	5,8

100 g of dry Pu-erh tea contains 106-118 kcal, which is about 6% of the daily requirement.

Vitamins and minerals

As part of pu-erh tea a large number of vitamins and microelements, the benefits of which are unchanged for everyone. For those who do not have obvious contraindications, it is recommended to consume one to three cups of this richest healing drink daily.

Table of vitamins:

Mineral table:

Pu-erh tea, the benefits of which can improve the vitality of each person, can be purchased at any large supermarket. On sale you can find tea prepared using different technologies. Along with very expensive offers, there are affordable options.

Useful properties of pu-erh tea

Oriental medicine names 22 useful properties of pu-erh, which allow you to effectively deal with a variety of ailments, so in China they gave it the name "tea from 100 diseases."

Modern studies have shown that the product can be useful not only as a remedy, but also as a prophylactic.

It turned out that it is able to block a protein involved in the development of cancer cells. Therefore, it can be considered effective way prevent or stop the development of cancer.

• To remove radionuclides, toxins, slags, salts of heavy metals from the body. Also, tea has excellent antioxidant and rejuvenating properties;

• To improve the functioning of the stomach and intestines, eliminate constipation, cleanse digestive system from decay products. Pu-erh normalizes the processes of digestion, makes it possible beneficial substances better absorbed. Since it is low in calories and has a slight diuretic effect, it is perfect for those who want to lose weight;

• To preserve youthful skin, strengthen hair and nails, and give a healthy and radiant appearance. For women, tea is especially useful as a means to prevent and eliminate wrinkles;

• To cleanse and improve the liver. The product is recommended to be regularly included in the menu for those who like fatty and spicy foods, drink alcohol. For men, a drink is an excellent remedy to get rid of a hangover;

• To enhance mental activity, improve concentration and increase efficiency.

Contraindications to the use of pu-erh tea

Despite the fact that the benefits of this tea are unambiguous, it has some contraindications for use. For the most part, this is due to individual intolerance and characteristics of the organism. Contraindications in the use of tea are also taking into account age categories, as well as the presence of some chronic diseases. In addition, Pu-erh tea cannot be drunk with strong brewed infusion. Since even a low intensity drink has pronounced properties.

Contraindications to the use of pu-erh tea:

• At a high body temperature, you can not drink a drink, as it will provoke an even higher temperature;

• A few hours before bedtime, it should not be consumed because of the strong tonic and invigorating effect. This will certainly lead to a failure of sleep and rest, which is fraught with stress for the nervous system of the body;

• Pu-erh tea is not recommended for women during pregnancy;

• During lactation, one cup of weakly brewed pu-erh tea is allowed per day;

• Children under 3 years of age are not recommended to drink tea;

• Those suffering from hypertension should not get carried away with strong tea, as the drink contributes to an increase in pressure;

• Due to its pronounced diuretic properties, tea should be used with caution by patients with urolithiasis. The fact is that it provokes the movement of kidney stones, which with large stones will lead to acute pain;

• Improperly brewed tea can cause tea intoxication, which is accompanied by a rapid heartbeat and vomiting.

Types and varieties of pu-erh tea

Dark tea is divided into two subspecies: Shen and Shu. Subspecies differ significantly from each other both visually and in taste and color. Sheng when brewed has a light color and a pronounced fruity taste. Shu is a true dark tea that has an astringent taste and a thick, rich, smoky aroma.

According to the use of raw materials, pu-erh is divided into several categories:

• Tea from small-sized leaves from tea bushes;

• A drink made from large and fleshy tea tree leaves;

• Pu-erh from elite varieties of tea bushes or trees;

• Mixed (blended) drinks.

According to the stage of fermentation, pu-erh is divided into the following types:

• Mao Cha is dried but not pressed leaves. All types of pu-erh are produced from them;

• Shen pu-erh are leaves that have undergone a pressing process, but have not undergone artificial fermentation;

• Shu Puer is a drink that has undergone accelerated artificial fermentation. To obtain high-quality tea, several years of processing are needed. During fermentation, bitterness leaves the leaves, the raw material becomes soft. Dried leaves are brownish-red in color, shiny in appearance;

• Aged Shen Pu-erh is the most expensive and elite type. This tea undergoes a natural fermentation that lasts for many years. The color of dried tea leaves is dark green.

Rules for brewing pu-erh tea

How to brew Puerh tea

A drink is brewed in a teapot. Tea is taken from a proportion of 4 gr. for 150 ml. water. The standard proportion for tasting is 6 gr. per 100 ml of water. Water should not be boiled for a long time. The optimum temperature for brewing is 95°C. Pu-erh tea is filled with water and immediately drained. Then it is refilled with water again. As a result, the smell of dampness is removed. The drink is infused for 10 minutes, after which it can be consumed. High-quality tea can withstand about 15 brews.

How to brew pressed Pu-erh tea

There is another method of brewing. Classic variant cooking is boiling in a glass kettle. When small bubbles begin to rise from the bottom of the kettle as the water is heated, one cup of water is drained. Then, when boiling, the water is poured back. After boiling again, the kettle is removed from the heat and the water is quickly stirred with a spoon to form a funnel. Previously, a piece of about 3 cm is separated from a piece of tea with a knife and soaked in cold water. Prepared tea is placed in hot water and infused for up to 20 minutes. Pu-erh tea is a delicious drink for true gourmets; over the years, it does not lose its valuable properties, but only increases them.

Recipe for pu-erh tea with milk

For those who do not like the characteristic bitterness of tea, a recipe for making it with milk, which softens the taste, will be suitable. First you need to take half a liter of milk, and preferably as fat as possible, two teaspoons of tea leaves. Put the milk on the fire and let it boil. At the same time, rinse the tea in cold water for a minute, then drain the water. When the milk boils, put the tea leaves and butter in the amount of 20-30 grams. Boil for five minutes. Then add cinnamon and honey to taste. Let cool for a couple of minutes.

The use of pu-erh tea in cosmetology

Pu-erh is also actively used by modern cosmetologists. So, many beauty salons offer pu-erh-based masks that help cleanse the skin, activate cell renewal processes, and therefore rejuvenate.

Tea lotions are used to combat cellulite. This product is valued in SPA hair care. You can prepare the most useful products at home.

Nourishing mask

It is necessary to grind one tablespoon of this tea, mix it with one tablespoon of kefir and three of the same spoons olive oil. Also add two tablespoons of flour or starch.

Balm for hair restoration

To prepare an effective restorative balm, you need to mix five tablespoons of the strongest pu-erh tea, egg yolk and a large spoonful of natural honey. The product is applied to freshly washed and slightly damp hair along their entire length, insulate and hold for half an hour. Rinse better warm water. This procedure will strengthen the hair, they will stop splitting and gain an attractive shine.

Do not add milk, honey or lemon to it. Experts recommend combining pu-erh with the active use of brown rice. This will remove all toxins from the body faster.

Puer is one of the most expensive teas in the world. It differs from other varieties in the specifics of production, which Chinese masters have been fluent in for more than one century. Since connoisseurs of this variety appear all over the world to this day, we will talk about its history, preparation technology and proper use.

Story

Since the 3rd century, the Chinese have been growing the Yunnan tea tree, and already in the 8th century, tea made from this raw material began to be called Puer tea or Pu tea. From the south of Yunnan Province, tea leaves began to be delivered to neighboring countries - Mongolia and Tibet. In Europe, this species appeared in the middle of the last century, since China has always carefully kept its secrets and was rather closed to other countries and their culture.

Production features

main feature of this variety consists in fermentation, during which pu-erh acquires its taste and composition. During the production process, tea goes through the following stages:

• collection of leaves;
• withering;
• extracting juice from leaves;
• fermentation - acceleration of fermentation of tea leaves;
• drying;
• pressing;
• some varieties of pu-erh also require ripening.

Important! Before the product was delivered by car, fermentation took place on the way to the consumer. With the advent of machines, the delivery time was reduced, and manufacturers came up with the idea of ​​fermenting tea artificially. A number of producers claim that the taste of pu-erh becomes more intense with time, however, the taste depends on the method of production.

Kinds

There are several types of Chinese Pu-erh tea, each with its own benefits.

Green tea (shen)

This variety is unprocessed, raw, green tea. Produced by natural maturation. Brewed sheng has a light green tint and a taste of dried fruit. As a rule, after 2-3 years of aging, pu-erh of this type ceases to be bitter, and it should be stored properly.

Did you know? Shen pu-erh older than 40 years is almost impossible to find in free sale - it is found, for the most part, at auctions and is the pride of collectors all over the world.

Black tea (shu)

Shu is a processed, mature, black tea that is fermented artificially. The production of this variety began only in 1973 with the advent of artificial fermentation technology. The brewed shu has a chocolate-mint taste and a hint of cognac. With proper storage, after a few years, the product loses the taste of the so-called "wet heap". In a separate type of pu-erh, it was determined precisely by the production process. Despite this, puer shu can be misidentified as a type of black tea due to the color of its leaves and the drink itself.

white pu-erh

The taste of white pu-erh is fundamentally different from sheng and shu. In addition, this variety of pu-erh is made from the buds of the Yunnan tree, not the leaves, so it has an antioxidant effect. A characteristic feature of white pu-erh is its herbal taste with a touch of dried fruit. The raw material goes through a short fermentation process for 5-7 days, and then it is dried at a temperature of +45 °C.

Variety of pressed teas

Pu-erh is pressed in several ways and subsequently has the following forms:

• compressed;
• in the form of a lump;
• loose;
• tea resin;
• in the shape of a tangerine.

Compound

Pu-erh must consist exclusively of Yunnan tea tree leaf. If tea does not contain third-party impurities, then its chemical composition includes phenolic compounds that serve as antioxidants and antiseptics; amino acids responsible for the quality and color of the variety; alkaloids that have a tonic effect on the body. Also, natural pu-erh is enriched with vitamins C, and various minerals. The energy value is 151.8 kcal per 100 g.

Did you know? Pu-erh will help lower blood cholesterol levels and prevent stroke, as well as heart ischemia.

Intoxication effect

As a rule, correctly brewed real pu-erh has a certain "intoxicating" effect. However, lovers of this type of tea indicate that intoxication from it has little to do with alcohol or drug intoxication.
When using pu-erh, the following is noted:

• deep perception of one's own thoughts and feelings;
• increased attention;
• improvement of digestion and normalization of pressure;
• relaxation;
• vivacity of body and mind.

Important! Tibetan monks use the infusion to increase control over the mind and body during meditation. Unlike alcohol intoxication, the tea state leads to the normalization of the nervous system and concentration.

How to drink tea correctly

First of all, it is undesirable to drink pu-erh before going to bed, otherwise you simply won’t be able to fall asleep. Also, you should not use this tea on an empty stomach, it is better to do it half an hour after eating, because in this case it really benefits your stomach and has a tonic effect on the body.

Beneficial features

Asian peoples consider pu-erh to be a cure for a hundred diseases. In any case, a tea drink will not cure serious diseases, but it can improve overall well-being and add vigor. Properly brewed pu-erh accelerates metabolic processes and normalizes blood pressure, as well as the functioning of the nervous system. Many sources also point to the normalization of weight and weight loss, as well as the cleansing of blood vessels. The variety is not contraindicated in gastritis.

Contraindications

First of all, this variety may be contraindicated for allergy sufferers and with individual intolerance to the product. Elderly people who have chronic diseases are also not recommended to consume pu-erh in large quantities. Pregnant and lactating women should also not get carried away with pu-erh, no more than one cup a day - allowable dose. For children under three years of age, the product is strictly contraindicated.

Brewing rules

To properly prepare a drink, you should not pour it with boiling water, it is best to do this with water, the temperature of which is 90-95 degrees. For 150 ml of water, four teaspoons of tea are required. Can be used up to 5 times. In the first two tea parties, you need to infuse the tea for only a few seconds, with each subsequent brewing, increase the infusion time by 20-30 seconds.
Puer can be called healthy drink enhancing your health. However, like any medicine, it should be used correctly and in moderation. Contrary to popular belief, pu-erh has nothing to do with alcoholic beverages or drugs.