Shu Pu Erh Long Sheng Bing Cha

Pu-erh is a Chinese fermented tea originating from Yunnan Province. It is characterised by its earthy, rich flavour, which deepens and mellows with extended ageing. There are two main types: Sheng (raw, light Pu-erh) and Shu (ripe, dark Pu-erh). Sheng undergoes natural ageing, while Shu is rapidly fermented.

Pu-erh is one of the oldest and, due to its effects, most renowned teas.

It is produced as loose leaf tea or pressed into shapes. The most common pressed Pu-erh shapes are:

• Bing Cha (饼茶) – "Cake" or "Disc" – a flat, round shape, most commonly pressed in weights of 357g, 200g, and 100g. Sometimes also referred to as Ping Cha.
• Tuo Cha (沱茶) – "Nest" – shaped like a bird's nest with a hollow depression on the bottom. Often pressed in weights of 250g, 100g, or smaller 5g nests called mini Tuocha.
• Zhuan Cha (砖茶) – "Brick Tea" – rectangular, brick-shaped. Standard weights include 250g, 500g, or even 1kg bricks.
• Fang Cha (方茶) – "Square Brick" – similar to Zhuan Cha but smaller and often more decorative, sometimes divided into smaller squares like a chocolate bar. Typically around 100g to 250g.

It is often consumed after meals and can be stored for many years, with its quality and value potentially increasing over time.

Scientifically proven health benefits of Pu-erh tea include:

• Cholesterol reduction: Pu-erh may help lower LDL (bad cholesterol) while increasing HDL (good cholesterol)
• Digestive support: This tea stimulates the production of digestive enzymes and aids fat breakdown, which can be beneficial after heavy meals.
• Antioxidant properties: It contains polyphenols and catechins that help combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
• Weight management: Pu-erh may support fat metabolism and assist in weight reduction when part of a balanced diet.
• Antimicrobial properties: The tea's fermentation process may contribute to antimicrobial effects, promoting gut health.
• Blood sugar regulation: Some studies suggest Pu-erh can help stabilise blood glucose levels.
• Mental health benefits: Pu-erh may have a positive effect on concentration, focus, stress management, and anxiety reduction. It also contains a small amount of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), approximately 10 mg per 100g.

These benefits depend on tea quality, preparation method, and regular consumption.

Pu-erh contains various minerals, including potassium, iron, magnesium, calcium, and trace elements, especially selenium and zinc.

The recommended intake is 3 cups per day. Since Pu-erh contains very little caffeine, it is suitable for drinking throughout the day.

Interesting fact: Pu-erh tea collections are highly valued. Many people own Pu-erh collections worth thousands of dollars. In parts of Asia, aged and rare Pu-erh teas are even considered a good investment for the future and may be included as part of a bride's dowry.