Dragon Well Tea (Longjing Tea)

Also known as Longjing tea, dragon well tea is a unique variety of pan-roasted Chinese green tea hailing from Hangzhou in Zhejiang Province, China. Since its a green tea, the antioxidants contribute to its health-boosting properties.

History and origin

The tea gained recognition during the Qing dynasty by the Emperor Qianlong, who had a particular interest in tea plantations, and was able to cure his mother of an illness with it.

Dragon Well Green Tea Health Benefits: What is it good for

Positive effects on the nervous system

While the tea may contain caffeine, the presence of an amino acid L-Theanine in it is responsible for calming the mind making you feel relaxed and alert, increasing your concentration levels as well. Sipping a cup or two of the herbal infusion is a good alternative to coffee since the former has less caffeine content and helps you stay energetic all through the day.

Weight management

The catechins in the tea along with caffeine speed up your metabolism, making it easier to burn the extra calories when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise routine.

For cancer

As a preventive measure for cancer, drinking Longjing tea is believed to be effective for its rich polyphenol content. Also, based on different research studies, it has been shown that the tea has the potential to prevent the progression of the condition.

Heart health

The antioxidant-containing herbal drink is a promising remedy for preventing coronary artery disease. The ability of the polyphenols in the green tea to interfere with the intestinal absorption of cholesterol helps in regulating the levels of cholesterol. As a result of these positive effects, the risk of heart problems is reduced.

Liver protection

The harmful effects on the liver arising from drinking alcohol can be negated with daily consumption of the tea. Taking into account the results observed in several animal and human studies; the catechins might have a vital role in preventing viral hepatitis as well as liver tumors.

For diabetes

A potent herbal drink for Type 1 Diabetes, Longjing tea can assist in managing the blood glucose levels. Those with a family history of diabetes can prevent its development consuming the tea.

Dental health

The presence of fluoride and several other minerals in the green tea leaves can aid in reducing the formation of dental plaques and tooth decay occurring due to a bacterial infection, helping in fighting bad breath.

How to make dragon well tea

Use a clear glass teacup to see the gradual color change when the tea begins to dissolve in the water.

• Add 2 grams of dragon well tea leaves in a tea holder.
• Fill 1/3 of the glass teacup with water and then add the tea leaves.
• Shake well and pour water into the teacup almost near to the brim.
• Pour the tea liquid into a fair cup after 3 minutes, and have the tea in a separate cup.

Note: The temperature of the water should be maintained between 80°C and 85°C.

Safety and precautions

Side effects

Excess drinking has been linked to insomnia, restlessness, stomach ache, gastritis, and increased heart rate. The risk of anemia is slightly higher as green tea reduces iron absorption by about 25%.

During pregnancy

Pregnant women should avoid the tea as consumption of caffeinated drinks have been associated with birth abnormalities.

Where to buy

Dragon well tea is available in several herbal tea-selling stores and online shops as loose tea leaves and tea bags.