Before we dig into everything you need to know about this incredible type of tea, if you’re just here to get a quick recommendation, here’s the BEST jasmine tea to try:
What is Jasmine Tea?
Scented with Jasmine blossoms and mixed with a base of either green, white or black tea, Jasmine tea is highly aromatic with a hint of sweetness.
Thought to have been introduced into China from eastern South Asia around 206 BC during the Han Dynasty, the jasmine plant has been flavoring tea since 1644, when the Qing Dynasty began exporting it.
Enjoyed throughout the world, the Jasmine tea with the best reputation is produced in the Chinese province of Fujian, although many other provinces and Asian countries also produce this tea.
When the flowers bloom in late summer, they are picked fresh early in the morning, then at night the buds open and release their fragrance. This is when the flowers are either blended or layered with the base tea and left overnight to infuse with the sweet aroma.
More than four hours are needed for this scenting process and top-grade blends are often treated with repeated steps to increase the potency of the tea. Then the blends are left to dry so that spoilage is minimized.
The species mostly used for creating this tea are Jasminum officinale or common jasmine and Jasminum sambac, known as the Sampaguita. Packed with antioxidants and properties associated with boosting the immune system, Jasmine tea is delicate and gentle on the palate.
In Chinese tea customs, Jasmine tea is served to welcome guests.
Enjoying a Cup of Jasmine Tea
This unassuming tea was once only served to royalty but is now enjoyed all over the world.
Taking into consideration that there are various grades and strengths available, Jasmine tea comes as either a loose or bagged product and you can purchase it rolled, like Jasmine pearls. There is also an extract which can be added to other liquids if you prefer not to brew a tea.
How to prepare a cup of Jasmine tea
Like most tea, one or two teabags should suffice, or if you’re using the pearls or loose tea, one or two teaspoons per cup.
If you’re drinking the tea for its health benefits, wait a few minutes after the water has boiled before pouring it over the tea, then steep from three to ten minutes, depending on the strength or grade.
If you want a sweeter tea, add honey, sugar or your choice of alternative sweetener. Milk can be added, but most tea sippers prefer Jasmine tea without it.
The Flavors of Jasmine tea
The flavor of this tea is slightly dependent upon the base used to produce it, like black, white or green tea, as well as the different types of processing.
Jasmine tea has gentle, floral notes and can be sweet, subtle and delicate. With a somewhat grassy finish, this tea is a pale golden or yellow color.
Many types of Jasmine tea have varying levels of caffeine, depending on the base, as mentioned earlier. Ranging from lower levels found in green tea to higher amounts in black tea, the caffeine content can be assessed accordingly.
Make sure that the tea you purchase is high quality and sourced from reputable and sustainable producers. Also ensure that you brew fresh Jasmine tea, as staleness makes a poor cup of tea.
Some say that using spring water is best for a fine cup of Jasmine tea and that the tea can be bitter if the water is too hot or steeped too long.
The Health Benefits of Jasmine Tea
According to Organic Facts, there are many health benefits associated with drinking Jasmine tea. When it comes to health benefits and tea, it’s important to keep in mind that they vary in terms of how well studied they are, or how those studies are interpreted. If you’re having health problems, it’s a good idea to talk to your Doctor. In most cases, tea isn’t going to make anything worse, but it’s not a replacement for professional medical guidance.
As a support to:
- Improving Digestion – Gastrointestinal and bowel disorders are apparently alleviated with the use of Jasmine tea, due to the beneficial interaction with enzymes in the gut, bringing relief and better core health.
- Lowering Cholesterol – When dealing with bad cholesterol levels, Jasmine tea contains antioxidants that inhibit LDL-oxidation, which helps with decreasing inflammation of the veins and arteries, as well as blood pressure.
- Eliminating Bacteria – The high level of antioxidants in Jasmine tea assist with fighting bacteria, boosting the immune system and eradicating free radicals.
- Easing Inflammation – Dealing with pain from issues such as joint and muscular discomfort, inflammation can be relieved when drinking Jasmine tea, which helps reduce swelling.
- Preventing Diabetes – With the ability to metabolize glucose, Jasmine tea supports the reversal of many harmful effects of diabetes. Some say that this tea acts as a regulator of blood sugar levels, assisting with good health practices.
- Reducing Stress – Even though some say it’s an acquired taste, certain studies show that the aroma of Jasmine tea is helpful in promoting relaxation and protecting the heart and nervous system.
- Losing Weight – It is believed that Jasmine tea increases the metabolism, due to its antioxidant properties, which helps the body assimilate nutrients at a faster rate, making exercise more effective.
Antibacterial Agents
Balanced Blood Sugar
More Jasmine Tea Brew Methods
