The public's awareness of Oolong Tea (Wu Long Tea) may not be as great or as widespread as that of black tea or green tea. But chances are, many have already tasted this tea either in Chinese restaurants or in Chinese friends' homes.
Oolong tea has substantial health benefits, like its green and white counterparts. Oolong tea has huge amounts of polyphenol catechins - these are antioxidant compounds that help lower cholesterol, reduce the risk of many types of cancer, and promote weight loss.
Overall however, oolong tea accounts for just a small percentage of tea sales and consumption. But as awareness of this tea slowly increases, there could be a spike in studies to ascertain its full beneficial effects.
Oolong tea comes from the plant camellia sinensis, just like black tea, green tea and white tea. Different types are harvested at different times, and may include varying proportions of leaves and buds.
The leaves and buds of the oolong tea are first dried in the sun, and then brought inside for processing. Finally, the leaves are rolled to release their aroma and flavor, and then roasted.
As oolong tea is only slightly fermented, it has less caffeine than black tea, and a clearer, more delicate flavor. The antioxidant content of oolong tea lies somewhere between that of green tea (richest in antioxidant content) and black tea (least).
The fermentation process in teas removes some of the strength of the antioxidant properties, but results in a smoother taste.
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