It's direct translation for “Black Dragon,” Oolong tea (pronounced Wu-Long) are full-bodied with fragrant and fruity aromas. The leaves are picked from the camelia sinensis plant, so this is a true tea. Once picked, the Oolong tea leaves are processed in two different ways. Some teas are rolled into long curly leaves, while some are pressed into a ball-like form. No other category of teas include such a wide range of diversity and complexity, due in part to the various levels of oxidation (from 10% - 70%). The more oxidized Oolongs are closer in character to black tea, with a deeper color and fruit and chocolate notes, while less oxidized Oolongs are more similar to green tea, with a lighter color and natural floral tones. Such delicacy makes Oolong tea among the most prized of teas and most often the tea served in Chinese restaurants.

Health Benefits:
Oolong tea is excellent with meals and is often referred to as the “weight loss tea” because it helps to lower the intake of fat from high-cholesterol meals. It also it increases metabolism and aids in digestion. Not only does it have a reputation as a dieter’s tea, it is great for the skin and can ease eczema and psoriasis symptoms, as well. Oolong tea helps to lower cholesterol and blood sugar, as well as reduce plaque in the arteries. Lastly, Oolongs still contain some caffeine (15% of the caffeine in a cup of coffee).