Chinese black tea pu-erh. Pu-erh tea: useful properties and contraindications

To date, information about pu-erh tea more than enough. However, there are a lot of different opinions, definitions, which quite often border on fiction. What is this tea and what are its properties? In this article, we will not delve into all the specific subtleties, but simply try to understand and understand the most basic for ourselves.

What is Puer.

Pu-erh is a post-fermented tea made from the mature leaves of tea bushes and trees in Yunnan Province. You can even say that this is a unique product that occupies a separate category among the whole variety of Chinese tea. And it's all about the characteristics of the soil, raw materials and its final preparation, which has its own subtleties and nuances.

Story.

motherland pu-erh tea a vast territory is considered to be bordering in the east with the Tibetan Plateau, which in ancient times belonged to the kingdom of Shu (today it is the provinces of Guizhou, Yunnan, Sichuan and the northern parts of Vietnam, Laos, and Burma). This is a unique place that differs significantly from other regions of China. It was here that the production of this tea was born, which originally bore the simple name of Yin Sheng Cha (银生茶, "Silver Green Tea"). Over time, after about 6 centuries, the name changed to Pu Cha (普茶, Tea from Pu). The small town of Pu Er became, in the modern sense, a logistics center, from where this tea was sent to all parts of the world. Initially, all tea was pressed into the shape of bricks and pancakes. This was done for easy transportation.

Types of pu-erh. Cooking technology.

Years passed, progress did not stand still. And along with it, the technology for the production of pu-erh changed, acquiring new qualities and properties of tea. All this has led to the fact that today we find 2 main types on the market - shu puer (ripe, black puer) and shen puer (raw, green puer).

They differ radically from each other, starting from the cooking process, ending with aroma, taste and color. It is impossible to confuse them. Speaking of production, this is the beginning of all differences. It is complex, with a lot of nuances, which we will discuss in future articles. For a general understanding, pu-erh is prepared according to the following technology:

Shen pu-erh

1. Collection of raw materials for further preparation.
2. After harvesting, the leaf is dried in the sun/roasted/steamed. The processes may differ, but they have the same essence - to stop the fermentation (Sha Qing, 杀青).
3. After the fermentation process is suspended, it is time to roll the raw materials (Zhou Nian, 揉捻). The process takes place manually or in special machines.
4. Once rolled, the leaves undergo a sun-drying process. If it is impossible to dry the raw material (cloudy, rain), then it is sent to greenhouses or dried in an oven.

"Killing the Greens" - Shaqing

After all these processes, we get ready-made sheng pu-erh at the output. In the future, it is pressed into molds or remains loose. It is laid down for a certain period of storage or sold young.

Shu pu-erh

In order to get mature pu-erh - aged, mature tea, you need to spend a lot of time and resources. For this reason, at the end of the 20th century, and more precisely in the 70s, they began to apply the technology of "wet stacking" (Wo Dui, 渥堆) which literally translates as "wet pile".

For the preparation of mature pu-erh, raw materials are taken, which go through all the same 4 stages that we talked about a little higher. After that, Wo Dui technology is applied to it. 40-90 days after the start of wet stacking, with a number of manipulations in the process, the tea is once again dried in the sun, thereby fixing its properties that it has acquired.

After that, the finished tea is divided fractionally. The leaves stuck together in the process are the so-called Lao Cha Tou (老茶头, Old Tea Heads). Small leaf - goes like loose Gunting (宫廷普洱, Palace). The remaining leaves of medium and large size are pressed into shapes.

Press forms.

Compression molds come in a variety of shapes and sizes. But first, a little about the raw materials and blends that go to the press. Usually it is a blend of middle and early maturity foliage. About 30% of raw materials of the late period of maturity are added to them, and as a result, we get a balanced and bright pu-erh in terms of taste characteristics. Each blend, regardless of whether it is shu pu-erh or shen, has its own special recipe. It is marked on the wrapper in the form of a number with 4 digits.

Now let's talk about the form of pressing. Its main types:

1. Bing Cha (餅茶) - pancake, flatbread. In size from 100 gr to 5 kg and more.
2. To Cha (沱茶) - nest, bowl. In size from 3 g to 3 kg and more.
3. Zhuan cha (磚茶) - brick. In size from 100 gr to 1 kg and more.
4. Fang Cha (方茶) is a square. In size from 100 gr to 200 gr.
5. Jin Cha (緊茶) - mushroom, twisted shape. In size from 250 gr to 300 gr.
6. Jin Gua (金瓜) is a gourd. In size from 500 gr.

Puer age.

Now let's talk about the pressing issue - the age of pu-erh and its taste. The topic is now relevant and controversial, in fact, as always. Let's figure it out.

Not infrequently among tea sellers, and even buyers themselves, there is an opinion that the older the tea is, the tastier it is. It's not all that simple. The main point is the production technology. If we're talking about shen pu-erh, then it has a certain basis and correctness. Since raw materials are used in them without post-fermentation, this implies the possibility of self-control of fermentation. Thus, it is possible to influence the taste and control it. But this, in turn, requires some effort and time. As connoisseurs and connoisseurs say, shengs acquire a unique taste and aroma after 10-20 years of proper storage.

In case of shu pu-erh things are a little different. Yes, there are also changes with age, but they are not so significant and tangible for the average tea lover that they are usually omitted so as not to exaggerate. Due to the fact that the technology of their preparation implies rapid fermentation with its further termination, without the right to ripen, shu aging becomes more subtle in terms of taste and aroma. The general tone and mood change slightly, the bitterness and sharpness go away, and the depth and velvety shade come to replace it. And it's not always easy to see right away. And those assessments of shu pu-erh according to age criteria today are nothing more than a marketing ploy.

The main regions of production of pu-erh tea.

To broaden our horizons, let's talk a little about the 10 most significant tea places in Yunnan and the taste characteristics of tea from these places. So, what regions should a self-respecting pu-erh lover know about:

1. Lao Ban Zhang. The taste of the local tea has a characteristic astringent, bitter and clean taste, but with a long sweetness in the aftertaste. The aroma is rich and deep.
2. Bindao. The taste of tea is characterized as full and rich, sweet, with a barely perceptible dryish bitterness. The aroma is high and intense.
3. kun lu shan. Tea plays soft and fresh taste, pouring bitterness into sweetness. The aroma is rich, long and intense.
4. Wan Gong. Characteristic taste - dense, fresh, lingering - sweet taste with a delicate aroma of forest freshness and sweetness.
5. Mansong. The taste is long, sweet, rich and deep. The aroma is delicate and delicate, deep.
6. Take that. The taste of tea from these places is full, rich, deep, without obvious bitterness and astringent properties. The aroma is clean, intense and voluminous.
7. Gua Feng Zhai. This tea characterizes a very strong taste, while quite smooth and even, mature, clean, with a pleasant bitterness. Aroma honey, sweet.
8. Lao Man E. The taste of tea is truly unique, fresh and deep, richly tart and bitter, changing to further voluminous sweetness. The aroma is intense, deep, rich.
9. Sigui. The heavy and thick taste of local tea is replaced by a soft sweet, making it unique. The aroma is unique, high and very sharp.
10. mahei. Volumetric taste, smooth, harmonious, creamy, soft, oily, rich. The aroma is clean and delicate, delicate, floral-fruity.

The main players in the tea market in China. About tea factories.

At the end of our review article, I would like to briefly mention the most influential factories for the production of shu and shen pu-erh. So, the most famous are:

1. Menghai.
2. Pu Wen.
3. Haiwan.
4. Yun He.
5. Xiaguan.
6. Wang Xia.
7. Hong De.
8. Manku.
9. Tulin.
10. Limin.

And others.

In the following articles, we will definitely talk about tea factories in more detail. And also talk about the features of each of them.

Conclusion.

In general, for pu-erh, as for any other tea, raw materials are first of all important. This is what initially determines the quality and taste. And only then exposure, age and everything else. But in order to buy high-quality tea, you need to be attentive enough to the place where you are going to buy it. In our store you can choose high-quality tea to your taste. Whether it is a well-known factory or a small farm where tea is made by hand.

Fans of tea drinks put this variety on a par with such elite drinks as whiskey, brandy. Puer tea has a set useful substances, vitamins, each brewing turns into a tasting, and the taste largely depends on aging, as is the case with alcohol. Features of the preparation of the drink make it not only useful, but also unique, even picky gourmets will be able to choose the right kind of tea.

What is Puer

The plant grows in China. This product is obtained by collecting and proper cooking tea leaves, the composition does not include any, artificial flavors. What makes tea unique is its chemical composition, which includes:

• amino acids that affect the characteristics of the drink;
• kakhetins, phenolic acids, anthocyanins - these elements are included in the group of phenolic compounds that have antibacterial, antioxidant, anticancer properties;
• sucrose, saccharides, giving the drink a sweetish aftertaste;
• alkaloids (thein), theophylline, theobromine, which give tonic properties to tea;
• pu-erh contains vitamins P, E, C, A;
• tea contains minerals: manganese, chromium, fluorine, zinc;
• statins that reduce the likelihood of stroke, cholesterol, coronary disease.

Manufacturing steps

The main production of natural, high-quality pu-erh takes place in Zhuan (province of China), some varieties grow in the provinces of Guizhou Sichuan and several regions of Vietnam. The main indicator of tea that affects the taste of the drink is exposure, the longer it is, the better. taste qualities. The same indicator directly affects the cost of pu-erh. The process of making tea takes a long period of time and consists of the following steps:

• first they collect leaves from old bushes (600 years old) and young ones;
• the collected raw materials are piled in large piles and poured with water (withering);
• when the pu-erh leaves dry, the dried pu-erh is laid out for 35-90 days in a thin layer so that natural fermentation (ripening and fermentation) occurs;
• then in the boilers the raw materials are disinfected, roasted and pressed;
• keep tea in storage for at least 1 year.

Varieties

There are several types of drink, for example, Shen pu-erh is also called green pu-erh, it is prepared according to the method of natural ripening, the leaves have a greenish tint. When it is brewed, it turns out a light tea infusion, like green varieties with a hint of fruit, prunes. If necessary, you can control the degree of fermentation yourself. After 2-3 years of additional aging, the roughness and bitterness of fresh leaves will go away from the pu-erh.

Shu pu-erh or earth tea created by artificial, accelerated aging, the leaves of the raw material become dark brown. It turns out after brewing a dark infusion with a touch of cognac, a hint of mint and chocolate. If you store earthen tea longer, the taste of dampness will disappear. There is also a classification according to the form of pressing the product:

• loose pu-erh;
• twisted tea or mushroom;
• tea lumps;
• in the form of a nest;
• pressed brick;
• pu-erh in the form of a mandarin;
• tea resin.

Pu-erh - useful properties

The unique qualities of the drink are formed due to its unique composition. The benefits of pu-erh are recognized in medicine, the drink is often used as folk remedies. The main thing that often stops people is the high cost. The properties of pu-erh tea will not manifest themselves if a fake is bought. Among the useful qualities of the drink are:

• fight against constipation;
• improved digestion;
• stabilization of blood sugar;
• prolongation of youthfulness of the skin;
• reducing the likelihood of developing a stroke, heart attack;
• excretion of heavy metals, poisons, slags, toxins from the body;
• cleansing of bad cholesterol;
• diuretic effect;
• normalization of the liver, cleansing and restoration of the body;
• increased concentration, physical activity;
• promotes the process of losing weight (improves metabolism).

Contraindications

Puer is a strong tea, even with a slight brewing, all the properties are very pronounced. Experimenting, brewing longer than the allotted time is dangerous for your well-being. There are certain rules that should not be violated when drinking a drink. This type of tea is contraindicated in the following cases:

1. If the body temperature is elevated, the drink will provoke an even greater increase.
2. You can not drink tea before bedtime, tonic properties will lead to sleep disturbance, can provoke nervous stress.
3. This tea is not recommended for people with glaucoma.
4. Tea is contraindicated during breastfeeding, pregnancy.
5. Do not give the drink to children under 3 years of age.
6. Everyone who suffers from high blood pressure (hypertension) should refuse pu-erh.
7. In the presence of urolithiasis, the diuretic properties of the drink can aggravate the condition: there will be sharp, piercing pains.

How to brew pu-erh tea

it unusual drink, which you need to know how to brew correctly. A clay container is not suitable for this, it strongly absorbs the smell. If you then brew Tibetan or plain black tea in it, it will still smell like pu-erh. The procedure itself takes a long time, it looks like this:

1. Take a suitable teapot for brewing (not clay).
2. You can use tea leaves for infusion several times.
3. Pour boiling water over the first portion of pu-erh for 50 seconds, then drain all the liquid completely.
4. Hold the second brew for 30 seconds and you can already use it.
5. For the third time, pour pu-erh for 4-6 seconds with 90 degrees water.
6. About 7-12 pressings are needed for 250 ml of liquid.
7. Drink hot, fresh and without sugar.
8. Quality pu-erh stays fresh for about 10 brews.

How to drink

The unique taste of this Chinese drink is unique, but only those who know how to drink it can fully enjoy the taste. Follow these rules to fill your body with energy and enjoy the wonderful aftertaste of tea:

1. For tea drinking, small bowls (bowls) are great so that the portions are small. This will help to fully experience the aroma and delicate taste of tea. If desired, you can take some dried fruits, chocolate.
2. You can not drink a drink before going to bed, it will be very difficult to fall asleep.
3. You can not drink puer on an empty stomach, in case of problems with the mucous membrane, this strong drink can provoke the appearance of an ulcer. It is recommended to drink tea 40 minutes after eating.

Intoxication effect

There is an opinion that this drink belongs to weak and legal drugs. Pu-erh is not such, it does not cause a feeling of intoxication and does not intoxicate, it does not form dependence and does not pose a danger to the human body. Thanks to a special set of enzymes, a high level of caffeine, such tea invigorates, increases the sharpness of perception, and alcohol has the opposite effect.

In the homeland of pu-erh (China), they say that the drink helps to take a sober look at life, which cannot be said about those who suffer from alcoholism. Tea masters claim that people after 3 cups begin to notice such details that previously passed by their attention. Thinking becomes smoother and more concentrated by raising the tone and sharpening the senses.

There is a slight effect of intoxication if a fake is bought or the quality of the product is very low. The same result can be observed in unprepared people who have not previously drunk such tea, so it is better to limit yourself to two small bowls during the tasting. The effect is similar to taking energy drinks.

Tea has become the most common drink in the world. In some countries, it has become a cultural value. Among all varieties of tea, black and green are popular, but there are many more varieties of this drink. The Chinese tea drink Puer is good for health, it has many positive effects on a person.

Useful and harmful properties of Pu-erh

Chinese Pu-erh was called smoked tea because of its specific taste. The leaves are impregnated with vegetable resin, which gives the aroma of smoking. But this is what causes beneficial features drink. The high cost of tea is based on the complexity of making the product.

It can be bought in many tea shops, the assortment will allow you to choose the appropriate type: pressed or loose. An important feature of this tea is its unpretentiousness to the conditions, it does not deteriorate during long-term storage.

The popularity of Pu-erh is based on its healing properties. The drink tones and invigorates a person, can replace a cup of coffee.

Before drinking tea, you need to familiarize yourself with the contraindications, because it contains a large number of active substances. The drink will bring harm with constant use, this should be avoided.

Each person is individual, and the same substances can act on everyone with a different effect. It is impossible to say with certainty how tea will affect a particular person. But if you follow the recommendations and rules for brewing Pu-erh, do not abuse the drink, then you can increase the likelihood of a positive effect.

The influence of Pu-erh on a person

Puer is used as one of the medicines in the following cases:

• Problems with short-term memory;
• Increased inattention and distraction;
• overweight;
• Problems with the liver and kidneys, low blood pressure (be sure to ask your doctor for advice).

The drink helps a person to keep himself in good shape, be cheerful, better and faster to concentrate on business, study, work, develop memory. There are improvements with digestion and pressure. The next day after drinking the drink, an increase in working capacity is noted, so it is recommended to drink it the day before important events.

Pu-erh is useful for weight loss, because thanks to chemical composition it burns adipose tissue and promotes the removal of toxins and other harmful substances. With the right intake, the weight is dropped quickly enough, the body is cleansed.

The healing and rejuvenating effect of tea is noted. Tea is recommended after recovery from diseases of the digestive system in order to improve the functioning of the organs. Helps in the treatment of hypertension.

Pu-erh is indispensable for diabetic patients, it is able to reduce sugar levels. It can also be used to sober up drunk people. It is able to remove alcohol from the body. The taste of elite tea delivers aesthetic pleasure.

Contraindications

It is forbidden to drink this tea to people suffering from allergies. There are times when a person cannot tolerate a drink due to the individual characteristics of the body. It is not recommended to drink Pu-erh for people with a large number of chronic diseases, especially in old age. Women during pregnancy and lactation should not drink more than one cup a day, and some experts recommend eliminating this drink from the diet for a while.

This drink can temporarily increase body temperature.

It is forbidden to drink Pu-erh for people with stomach diseases: ulcer, corrosion, gastritis. The doctor may allow the use of only minimal amounts with light tea leaves. Tea stimulates the production of pepsin in the stomach, which can adversely lead to additional heartburn.

You can not give this drink to children, their growing body will not be able to process such a number of different substances, so an allergy to some substances may occur. This will have a negative impact later on.

Types of tea and brewing rules

Brewing rules depend on the type of tea purchased. And the properties of the drink depend on the brew. To be useful, follow the rules. Each type of Puer tea is a separate story, an original earthy taste.

Pu-erh pressed

In stores, most often you can find exactly the form of tablets. They are prepared by pressing at enterprises. Tablets suggest brewing a drink in a single serving. The brewed liquid will have a rich color, the consistency of an elite drink is slightly thicker than regular tea. It has a pleasant smell of plants with a chocolate or caramel flavor.

• To brew a tablet, crush it. In a teapot, pour boiling water, drain after 2-3 seconds. Boiling water is drained so that only pure tea leaves are brewed;
• Pour boiling water again at a temperature of 90 to 98 degrees;
• Wait four minutes for the pressed Pu-erh to brew;
• After this time, it can be drunk, preferably warm.

If the product is of high quality, then the tablet can be re-brewed in a slightly different way.

• Grind a piece of pressed tea and place it in a mug or other container. Rinse the leaves with hot water, pour out the water almost immediately. Pour boiling water at the same temperature again. Wait five minutes for complete brewing.
• Increase the time with each brew. Not fully brewed Pu-erh has not the most pleasant taste. Boiling time can be up to 10 minutes. If during this time the leaves are not brewed, it is not suitable for consumption.

Black Puer

It is called "Shu", which means "dry". The leaves are not pressed, they are dark, and in appearance they are difficult to distinguish from ordinary brewed black tea. It is sold in packages, the instructions for brewing are most often attached to them. You can’t save on Shu Pu-erh: real Chinese tea is expensive, but of high quality. It can be stored at home for a long time, so it is perfect as a gift.

Black Pu-erh must be cleaned of dirt on the tea leaves. Clean it with boiled water, then pour boiling water over it. Other methods of brewing will not be as effective, the aroma of tea will not be so pleasant, and the beneficial properties of the drink will be lost.

Green Pu-erh

The green variety of this tea is called "Shen", and is less sharp, but more exquisite taste. This is not due to the color of the leaves, but due to their enzymes. Green Shen Pu-erh can be brewed directly in a cup, or you can use a teapot. The leaves do not need to be rinsed with water. For proper brewing, you need warm boiled water of about 70 degrees.

You won't have to wait long for the brew. The drink is ready to drink after only forty seconds. The taste of Pu-erh is softer, fresher, and "Shen" means that it has herbs in it.

Loose Pu-erh

Also called palace tea, due to its history of appearance. Tea in loose form does not differ in taste from ordinary Pu-erh, it is green and black. This is a highly fermented product, its preparation involves the following steps:

• Take one or two small spoonfuls of tea leaves and pour into a round earthenware or porcelain teapot;
• Pour some boiled water into the kettle, shake it gently, and pour out the water. So you wash the leaves from dust and let them soak;
• Pour boiling water to the end, close the lid of the kettle. Wait about three minutes;
• In order to make the taste richer and brighter, wait five minutes;
• You can not add sugar, lemon to the liquid, any additives are prohibited.

This species is made from natural grade tea tree leaves. Yunnan Pu-erh is recognized as the most ancient type of tea, because the trees from which the leaves for it are harvested are direct descendants of the first tea trees in China.

To brew this special drink, you need a small teapot with a lid. Use only high-quality utensils, because when brewing, the taste directly depends on the utensils.

• For a small teapot, you need to take 2-3 teaspoons of tea;
• Leaves in the manner described above must be washed with boiling water from 90 degrees twice, keeping them in boiling water for 15 seconds;

When the leaves are washed, pour boiling water over them again for half a minute, and pour the liquid into another teapot. After cooling slightly, pour the drink into cups.

The drink should not give bitterness. But if it is a little bitter, reduce the last brew time by 10 seconds.

Real Pu-erh can be brewed more than 8 times. When the earthy flavor starts to lose intensity and wane, increase the steeping time. To properly brew tea, use only hot freshly boiled water.

Summing up

There are many types of Pu-erh so that each person can find a suitable taste. Brewing does not imply the presence of special skills and tools. By following the rules for brewing for each type, you will get a delicious drink. It is not difficult, every student can brew it. You can only read the instructions once to brew tea correctly. Pu-erh has many health benefits, so drinking it in moderation will bring significant benefits. Thanks to this, Pu-erh has become a landmark of China.

Most people start their morning with a cup of tea. Few people attach importance to the drink, drinking it is just a matter of habit, but the real tea leaf can change our lives for the better, and these are not just words. In our time, the relevance of the use quality products, drinks that help people lead a healthy lifestyle without clogging the body with harmful substances and additives. Tea and we are inseparable, it is included in the daily diet of millions of people on the planet, and simply must be the best. Pu-erh belongs to the latter.

Popularity of Chinese tea

Nowadays it has become fashionable to drink good drinks, often the names of teas from China can be heard in the music of famous performers, which cannot but arouse instant interest among young people. But something that is new for us is considered a sought-after drink in Asian countries, which can be called imperial in terms of level and quality. Everyone knows about pu-erh tea there. Every inhabitant of the Celestial Empire reveres the drink, is kind to the tea ceremony. Our country is very far behind in this regard, but still the tendency to use different useful products is gaining momentum and cannot but rejoice, because it directly affects the health of the nation.

Of course, the spread of various teas, herbs, foods and drugs has become possible in the modern world thanks to the increased standard of living, because now people are much more likely to fly abroad, bringing outlandish goods from where. In our country, residents often order good Chinese tea to friends and colleagues who fly to China or India. If you don't know what pu-erh tea is, read on for everything you need to know about it, from production to brewing in your cup.

History of valuable tea from China and its creation

Do you know what is unique about this drink? The fact that it is akin to expensive, high-quality wine, which only gets better with age. Yes, pu-erh with a certain exposure is valued like expensive stones, and the more time the tea was stored, the more expensive it will be in price. Of course, the drink is valued not only for its unusual taste, but also for its ability to positively influence our health.

It is interesting! The most expensive and rare Pu-erh teas are stored for 25 years. But this is not the limit, there is a unique and valuable exhibit in the Celestial Empire, which is located in the emperor's palace, and its age is about three centuries.

The history of the drink stretches back centuries to the beginning of our era, the first mentions can be found in the third century of tea bushes, which were the ancestor of modern pu-erh tea. By the way, his name is also very ancient, and once this was the name of the city where they made various Chinese teas. Pu-erh itself in its present form began to be made around the eighth century during the Tang Dynasty. From time immemorial, tea bushes grow only in one province, where there is an exceptional ecology and climate that allows you to get the best of the best varieties teas all over the world, place name Yunnan.

To bring expensive goods to other countries, they used to use land transport, and these were horses. The leaves were pressed and dried on the spot and then used for drinking. Now the technology has largely remained the same as it was hundreds of years ago, and you will learn how to brew pressed puer today a little later. But why does the civilized world only now learn about this type of tea, because it came to Europe only in the 20th century, and in our country, in general, very late? It's simple - the Celestial Empire has been a country closed from everyone for a very long time, and even now many secrets have not yet been discovered, the Chinese carefully keep their secrets and traditions.

How is Chinese Pu-erh tea made today?

The process is in many ways very similar to how the ancestors made the drink, but there are still changes in the technology. So, of course, bushes are first grown in Yunnan province, after which young, juicy leaves are harvested. Then they are dried, twisted, so that the raw materials give more juice. After that, the important stage of fermentation begins. At this moment, constant fermentation processes take place in the leaves, it's like cooking fermented milk products. Fermentation requires a high temperature, and to stop it, the raw materials begin to dry. Further, the leaves are already pressed, and a unique, expensive, delicious tea is obtained.

But nowadays the fermentation and maturation of tea is not the same as in the past centuries, because then the product was prepared during a long journey. While the caravan was going, the leaves were fermenting, they were dried on the spot to stop the fermentation. Now delivery does not take weeks and months, because in the second half of the 20th century, the technology of accelerated fermentation or aging was created. Usually, for this, raw materials in the form of leaves are folded under the fabric, moistened with water, and a high temperature is pumped inside. Fermentation occurs in accelerated terms, and the whole process is significantly reduced.

Chinese pu-erh and its unique types

The drink may be different depending on the method of brewing, packaging, shelf life.

There are two main types:

• Shu-puer. It is he who is created by fermenting at an accelerated pace. Artificial aging creates a black drink, it is very rich. Still such tea can be called earthy or mature. As a result, the drink turns out to be cognac-colored with the taste of strawberries, the aroma of chocolate, nuts, caramel;
• Shen Puer. This tea is prepared in the same way as hundreds of years ago, it is also called raw. The variety does not go through the fermentation process, where fermentation takes place with the help of microorganisms. The leaves are simply dried, rolled and dried, and then pressed. The drink comes out light green. The taste and aroma are reminiscent of a mixture of fruits and prunes.

Now you know what is the difference between Shu-puer and Shen-puer - in their manufacturing process, the latter does not have fermentation by microorganisms. In this case, all tea can have different packaging. For the Chinese, this is also a separate philosophy of shaping the leaves. They can produce a compressed product, in bulk, lumps, resin tea and even pu-erh in mandarin. Not only that, in China, even the pressing process is so different, which amazes people who knew nothing about high-quality, real tea drinks. Pu-erh can be produced in the form of a mushroom, pancake, bowl, brick, square and pumpkin.

What is the unique taste of Chinese Pu-erh?

One of the frequently asked questions is what is the effect of pu-erh tea. After all, people have heard about the uniqueness of the drink and want to try it, but they are afraid that they might not like it, but still the money you need to pay for the packaging is not the same as for a pack of packaged product in the store. But after all, everyone has different tastes, and it is better to try a unique tea at least once than to hear about it all the time and never risk buying it.

Pu-erh, of course, differs in taste from what we are used to drinking in the morning. He also happens different types, more on that later, which also affects the taste and aroma. Of course, a lot also depends on age and how to brew pu-erh. But the effect is usually pronounced - it is a tone, a surge of strength, energy. A person's mood rises from the constituent components of tea and from the realization that you are drinking a good, unique drink. Mental activity improves, clarity of thoughts, motivation surprises. The drink also affects many organs inside.

Advice! It is best to drink pu-erh in the morning to feel the full effect that was described above. You can also drink tea before a long journey, when you need to have a clear mind, while the percentage of caffeine in the drink is low.

Puer tea. What are the beneficial properties and contraindications?

positive impact

We have already mentioned that the effect of the drink is visible immediately after drinking, but not only in vigor and tone, the strength of tea. Regular use can help to cope with a number of ailments and become the prevention of many diseases.

• The drink does not contain artificial and harmful additives, which is safe for health.
• It has a beneficial effect on the gastrointestinal tract, while even people with an ulcer can drink it.
• Normalizes metabolism, which can contribute to weight loss.
• It tones the nervous system, improves concentration, memory, improves mood, helps to cope with stress and depression.
• It has a beneficial effect on the liver, kidneys, gallbladder.
• It cleans blood vessels, removes cholesterol, which helps our cardiovascular system.
• It removes toxins, which cleanses our body and skin.
• Helps during colds, relieves coughs.
• It has a beneficial effect on the condition of the oral cavity.

negative impact

In fact, there is little negative in the drink. It can negatively affect the condition if it is brewed too strong, as a person may feel intoxicated. You can not give tea to young children, as well as drink it before bedtime, as you can earn insomnia. It is better not to drink pu-erh when you are hungry, otherwise there is a risk of stomach pain, stomach pain and heartburn. Well, it's time to move on to another frequently asked question, how to drink pu-erh.

We make fragrant Chinese tea

traditional method

If you have purchased loose Shen Pu-erh, then its brewing will be simple and familiar. You take about a teaspoon of leaves - up to 10 grams per serving, that is, a glass of boiling water per person. Then boil the water, let it cool for a minute (up to 95 degrees), pour the leaves, drain immediately after 10 seconds. Thus, you remove the dust, prepare the tea leaves for the ceremony. Wait half a minute and pour the pu-erh again, after which you pour it from the teapot into bowls. Pu-erh called “Wild” will be brewed in the same way, only insist it for up to five minutes. The drink will have a woody aroma, a slight sourness.

Advice! It is better to take spring water or purified water for brewing, then pu-erh will have real taste. The dishes in which you will conduct the tea ceremony, whether it be special Chinese or otherwise, always scald with boiling water. They also wash it with tea leaves, which are drained for the first time and are not used for drinking.

Only experience can let you know what kind of strength the drink will be to your liking. Therefore, experiment, because we are all different and everyone has different tastes. The beauty of pu-erh is that it can be brewed repeatedly, each time the taste of the drink will be different. So, now you know how to brew Shen Pu-erh with a strait, let's get acquainted with other methods.

Advice! In China, the tea ceremony is most often performed using earthenware or porcelain. It is believed that it is in such a container that the leaves open best, and the taste will be real. A special knife will also help you, which helps to break off the compressed look, the brewing of which we will discuss later.

Cooking pressed pu-erh

To brew a drink, you will need to break off a piece of about 2-3 cm. After that, they put it in a cup, knead it inside or do it gently with your hands in advance. Further, boiling water is poured, drained and poured again after 3-5 minutes. Tea costs 1 minute and you can drink it. Traditionally, sugar is not added to the drink, but you can drink pu-erh with dark chocolate.

Important! Shu-puer, that is, a black, fermented type, is poured with boiling water at 95-98 degrees. Shen - a raw, green type is brewed with water at 80-85 degrees. At the same time, it is better to raise the kettle with boiling water so that the water flows from a height and has time to be saturated with oxygen.

Milk pu-erh

This is not milk tea, but a type of pu-erh. It is brewed not with boiling water, but with hot water at 60-70 degrees. Insist 2-3 minutes. But remember that the age of the tea leaves will affect the brewing process and the taste of the drink, always check with the seller how much tea is aged. The older the drink, the more intense and concentrated it is. Milk puer very well helps the body cleanse itself, reduce sugar, and also has a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin.

Making tea with cherry juice

Cherry puer is one of the popular recipes. For it, you will need either two spoons of tea leaves in loose form, or a 3/3 cm piece of pressed type. You also need cherry juice about half a liter and spices. You can take cardamom, cinnamon, cloves. Whoever likes it, star anise can also be used. We take just a small pinch or 2-3 pieces.

Pour 300 ml of water into a container, put tea leaves, and then, stirring, wait for the water to begin to boil. Now it's time for your favorite spices that you put in the water, simmer for about five minutes. At the end, pour half a liter or a little less cherry juice, stirring, bring to a boil. The drink languishes for five minutes, then turn off the fire and pour the tea into cups. Well, now let's get acquainted with the answer to the question of how to brew pu-erh in mandarin. You will get a very tasty and aromatic drink.

Brewing tea - pu-erh in mandarin

An unusual drink with the taste of citrus, apples, plums, floral aroma will turn out if you buy this type of tea. To brew it, you need to pour about half of the tea leaves from the mandarin, also break off a piece from the fruit itself. You put it all in earthenware, pour a glass of boiling water at 95-98 degrees, drain, and pour again. Infuse the drink for 3-4 minutes.

We make tea

This method has been used since antiquity. A spoonful of pu-erh or a cube of three centimeters is crushed into a jug with a liter cold water, let stand, then washed through a strainer, carefully collecting the leaves into a ball. It is believed that the drink according to this brewing method will be very saturated and can give a heady effect, due to the fact that the leaves are not washed in advance with boiling water, which means that some of the substances are not washed out of them.

Now we put water on the stove to boil, when the characteristic bubbles have already gone, we make a funnel or, as the Chinese say, “dragon's tail”, stirring the boiling water so that it starts to spin. And in the center we put our tea ball, after boiling we wait five seconds and turn it off.

Such an unusual tea with beautiful name pu-erh and its methods of brewing. The drink will bring a lot of positive emotions, awareness and health benefits into your life.

The legendary Chinese drink has spread all over the world and is firmly rooted in many countries. This is Pu-erh tea, the value of which has been repeatedly proven by folk healers in China. From time immemorial, the benefits of the drug were not subject to discussion; tea is still considered a cure for 1000 diseases. There are several varieties of Puer - white, green and black, they are considered basic. Today we will consider the benefits and harms of the drink.

Puer production technology

For the manufacture of raw materials, leaves of several varieties are used, which are preferably collected from tea-type shrubs. The components must be large.

After harvesting, the leaves undergo fermentation (artificial aging), the process is carried out under the influence of special enzymes. It is this specific technology that allows tea to retain all its properties and not deteriorate for a long time.

A properly prepared tea leaf is often “rested” in parchment or a wooden box for 10, 20, or even 30 years. It is interesting that after such a long period of time, Pu-erh does not deteriorate, but becomes even richer, seasoned, and bright.

Some manufacturers prefer to ferment tea leaves naturally, aging them for about 7 years. If the process is carried out artificially, then the raw materials are collected in a heap, sprayed with a solution and left to “reach” for 1.5-3.5 months.

After fermentation, Pu-erh is dried and further infused for 1 year. Just such a complex technological process causes the cost of production.

Pu-erh is usually sold in the form of pressed briquettes, cakes, bricks, cubes, tablets, bowls, mushrooms, or balls. In rare cases, you can find tea sold by tea shops in loose form. If we talk about types, Pu-erh is white, green Shen, black Shu.

Indications for taking Puer

• overweight, including obesity;
• excess cholesterol in the blood;
• low mental performance;
• poor memory and concentration;
• rapid physical fatigue;
• slagged organism;
• jumps in blood pressure;
• alcohol addiction;
• gastritis and stomach ulcers caused by high acidity;
• difficult activity of the liver;
• low immune system;
• accumulation of salts in the urine;
• indigestion;
• diabetes.

Pu-erh properties

• has a mild laxative effect;
• removes excess water, bile;
• stops the fermentation of food in the intestines;
• has a preventive effect in the spread of influenza;
• improves immunity;
• reduces blood glucose levels, which is appreciated by diabetics;
• removes toxic compounds from the liver;
• gives vivacity, improves activity;
• reduces cravings for smoking and alcohol consumption;
• removes old waste from the body;
• cleanses blood vessels, seals their walls;
• removes cholesterol plaques from the blood;
• accelerates metabolism, in particular digestion;
• blocks the access of blood to cancer cells;
• conducts cancer prevention;
• burns fat reserves;
• fights gastritis and ulcers, reducing the acidity of the stomach;
• frees internal organs from free radicals;
• normalizes the psycho-emotional background, calms.

The benefits of Pu-erh

1. In China, a tea drink is used to give the so-called intoxicating sobriety of the mind. This means that Puer is aimed at increasing concentration, improving brain activity, and relieving the effects of stress.
2. Incoming theine, L-theanine, theophylline provide an energy boost for the whole day and at the same time relax the body. As a result, a person becomes calm and resilient to negative factors, sleep and general condition are normalized.
3. Theine is the well-known caffeine, only in a milder form. In combination with other enzymes, the drink stimulates brain activity. Incoming neurotransmitters are responsible for good mood, relieve excessive irritability and give peace.
4. Geophyllin, which accumulates in the drug, affects the central nervous system. The substance clears the respiratory tract, reduces cravings for cigarettes and alcoholic beverages. The blood is enriched with oxygen, resulting in a feeling of lightness.
5. Such actions absolutely do not harm the vascular system and heart, as is the case with other similar drinks (artificial energy drinks, coffee, etc.).
6. Alkaloid compounds are engaged in cleansing the body of free radicals, they relieve food poisoning, help the heart pump blood. Vessels expand smoothly, without stress.
7. Tannins in combination with catechins stimulate all metabolic processes, thereby increasing insulin sensitivity. It becomes easier for people with diabetes to live, as blood glucose stops jumping.
8. Pu-erh tea should be consumed by patients who have a tendency to form blood clots. The drink kills bad cholesterol and removes it from the blood, thereby reducing the likelihood of developing a stroke or heart attack.
9. Pectin is responsible for the prevention of cancer. The substance blocks the access of blood to the cells of malignant tumors, kills a harmful protein, which can be the beginning of the development of oncology.

1. The drink allows you to get rid of excess weight without stress for the body. So, Puer reduces the feeling of hunger and maintains satiety after a meal for a long time. Tea speeds up metabolism, thereby burning body fat.
2. The drug is responsible for the rapid digestibility of food and the absorption of valuable enzymes by the blood. As a result of losing weight, a person does not feel unwell, apathy, or a bad mood.
3. Pu-erh removes excess fluid, fighting swelling of the limbs and tissues of internal organs. Tea improves intestinal patency, regulates the size of portions.
4. If the reason for the appearance of excess weight is associated with the inability to control the amount of food eaten, make it a habit to drink tea a third of an hour before a meal. Your stomach will fill up and you will eat less.
5. For people who prefer to follow very strict diets, Pu-erh is a must. The drink makes up for the lack of the "hormone of joy", thereby the fight against body weight takes place in high spirits.
6. You should not get carried away with tea, otherwise you risk experiencing partial beriberi, headache and high blood pressure. Take a drink three times a day for 100-150 ml.

The benefits of Puerh for digestion

1. A separate topic deserves the effect of the drink on digestive system. Pu-erh is recommended for duodenitis, ulcers, gastritis. The drug does not increase the acidity of the stomach, as does regular black or green tea.
2. Soft enveloping properties protect the mucous membranes of the internal organs without irritating them. At the same time, maximum stimulation of the digestive tract is achieved, food is absorbed faster.
3. In addition, Pu-erh has a laxative effect, cleansing the body even of old toxins. The drug removes poisons, heavy metals, radionuclides, fights stagnation in the intestines.
4. The drink tones the bile ducts, has a beneficial effect on the bladder. Pu-erh restores the functions of the liver and the structure of the internal organ.
5. Drinking tea will relieve you of the constant feeling of heaviness in the stomach, heartburn, bloating and other unpleasant symptoms. Pu-erh puts the appetite in order, promotes the rapid disintegration ethyl alcohol with a hangover.
6. To enhance the antioxidant properties of the drug, you need to add a little brown sugar and milk to the composition. In addition, such manipulations saturate the body faster.

Harm Puer

1. During gestation, girls need to carefully monitor the food they eat. Products directly affect the health and development of the baby. The recommended dose should not exceed 240 ml. tea a day.
2. In the presence of ailments associated with the urinary tract or kidneys, be careful. During exacerbations, stop taking tea. Otherwise, the drink will provoke the movement of stones.
3. If you suffer from insomnia and increased irritability, it is not recommended to use Pu-erh and similar tonic drinks. In some cases, you can treat yourself to 1 cup of this tea before lunch.
4. It is forbidden to relieve pain in the abdomen with Puer, tea can cause even more damage. Consult a specialist for an accurate diagnosis.
5. It is necessary to completely exclude the use of Pu-erh and strong teas in any quantities for people who have been diagnosed with atherosclerosis and hypertension.
6. With proper brewing, the drink will not harm the body. Before drinking tea, it is important to choose high-quality raw materials.

1. Give preference to trusted producers of high-quality tea, mainly the large factories ShuangjiangMengkui, Menghai and Xiaguan.
2. Always pay attention to packaging and storage conditions. Quality tea should be stored in a dark, dry and cool place.
3. Tea is most often produced in the original pack of special materials. Forget about buying Pu-erh in sealed packaging. Such raw materials are prone to the development of mold.

Rules for brewing Pu-erh

1. The smell of tea is revealed throughout the ceremony. The benefits of a freshly brewed drink are felt after proper aging. The strength of the drink is reached 10 minutes after pouring boiling water.
2. For tea to show useful qualities, it is necessary to brew raw materials in a small porcelain or clay teapot. The taste is maximally manifested when brewed with purified water without impurities.
3. A pleasant aroma is revealed at a temperature of no more than 93 degrees. It is forbidden to use bubbling boiling water, consider this important point. Without fail, warm the kettle, then brew the raw materials.
4. Follow the rules strictly according to the instructions. The teapot is warmed up with the first boiling water and Pu-erh is washed from tea dust. The water should be about 90 degrees, after 10 seconds drain the liquid.
5. For the second time, pour in boiling water, the temperature of which should not exceed 93 degrees. The brewing time of raw materials is from 3 to 10 minutes. To get a light drink, enough for 150 ml. water to take 3 gr. tea leaves, for strong tea, double the raw materials.
6. According to the rules of use, tea should be brewed at least 10 times. All the colors and benefits of tea are revealed after 4-5 pours of boiling water. Each time it is important to increase the time of infusion of the drink.

According to the rules of tea drinking, the ceremony begins with the correct brewing of raw materials. Qualitatively prepared Pu-erh has a healing unique effect, while the drink has an amazing aroma.

Video: how to brew pu-erh