Oolong tea has been enjoyed for centuries — rising to popularity in the Eastern world during the Tang dynasty. It’s been commonly used as a delicious daily drink and enjoyed for its lighter, floral taste. Tea enthusiasts can also enjoy various health benefits with regular consumption, making this tea one of the top blends to reach for in your tea cabinet. Below, we’re covering what oolong tea is, the tastes of oolong tea, and the benefits that you can enjoy in every cup. 

What is oolong tea made of? 

Oolong tea is brewed from the leaves and buds of the Camellia Sinensis plant, placing it in the same family as black and green tea blends. While they are related, oolong has a unique taste and mouthfeel compared to its more bold, herbaceous siblings. You can expect a lighter, fruity taste and a more rich sipping experience with oolong. This is due to the duration of fermentation time compared to black and green teas. It’s allowed to gain some oxidation in the fermentation process, but not so much that it would place it in the same taste category as a black tea blend. 

Is oolong tea healthy for you? 

Oolong tea is healthy for you and is safe to consume daily as part of your routine. There are many health benefits that tea drinkers can enjoy with every cup of oolong tea. We’ve listed them below: 

1. Lower blood sugar levels 

Oolong tea works actively to lower blood sugar levels, making it an ideal drink of choice for those who struggle with diabetes or hypoglycemia. A Japanese study has found that drinking oolong tea resulted in 30% lower blood sugar levels for drinkers across the board. Caffeine, also found in oolong, has been positively correlated with lower sugar levels. Regularly drinking oolong tea can promote pancreatic health, proper function, and regulation, making this a strong choice of tea for those to use preventatively to promote total body wellness. 

2. Boost antioxidant levels 

Antioxidants help your body minimize the risk of cancer and other diseases. Oolong tea offers your body a powerful boost, giving higher doses of antioxidants than its related black or green tea blends. They also work more effectively in fighting mutations and free radicals that could potentially affect your body’s proper function. Oolong teas are great if you’re looking to boost your immune system and there are many flu-fighting teas used preventatively by many during the peak of flu season.

3. Support digestion and gut health

Oolong tea has been frequently associated with gut health and support. Frequently drinking oolong after heavy or rich meals can help your body metabolize the food more effectively and lower the risk of bloating or digestive upset. It also is a potent alkalizer in your gut, which can assist those who struggle with acid reflux or GERD. Oolong is a popular tea to enjoy with your meal, as the tastes are very mild and fruity. It goes with far more palettes and flavor profiles than its other black or green tea relatives, featuring a less bitter taste and a more palatable flavor and feel.

4. Weight loss support 

Drinking oolong tea regularly can help support your weight loss journey. This is due to the combination of polyphenols and caffeine, which promote a faster-operating speed for your metabolism and food breakdown in the gut. You can enjoy a higher caloric burn rate when you regularly drink oolong tea. The effects of oolong on your metabolism also continue after you fall asleep, making this a very effective means of weight loss. Caffeine, for example, stops affecting your burn rate once you fall asleep. Green tea can also assist with weight loss, and can be a delicious addition to your favorite oolong blend. 

5. Enjoy better sleep and more resiliency 

Oolong has been used to support sleep and emotional resiliency. It is often affiliated with relaxation due to its high levels of L-theanine. This acts as a soothing element in the brain and is known for its ability to boost dopamine and serotonin levels. This influences your mood and overall cortisol levels, providing added resiliency to assist you in managing stress and tension.