How to Pick Tea in Winter？

In the cold winter, brewing a cup of hot tea and taking a sip is incredibly comforting. When enjoying hot tea in winter, there are some key points to keep in mind. This can help us more conveniently and comfortably enjoy tea while obtaining better health benefits.

Winter weather is dry, and individuals with sensitivity may experience discomfort in the respiratory system, dry skin, brittle hair, colds, coughs, nosebleeds, and more in such dry conditions. Plain water alone is less effective in moisturizing and hydrating compared to tea, and the beneficial components in tea have a good alleviating and "therapeutic" effect on various discomforts caused by winter dryness. Additionally, adding an appropriate amount of honey to tea can have a lung-moistening effect.

Tea is not only healthy but also delicious, making it ideal for comforting the body and mind during winter. Choosing tea gift sets to give to family and friends can be a wonderful Christmas tea gifts or New Year tea gifts.

In the cold winter weather, with the body exposed to prolonged cold conditions, it is inevitable to be susceptible to dampness invading the body. Therefore, black tea is suitable for winter consumption.

Fully oxidized loose leaf black tea is the preferred choice for winter, as it has a warm nature that suits both young and old. The bright red color of the tea resembles a winter fire, providing a sense of warmth to both the body and mind.

Oolong tea is categorized into relatively light and heavily oxidized types. In winter, it is best to choose loose leaf oolong tea with a higher degree of oxidation and has undergone roasting. This type of tea does not cool the spleen and stomach, contributing to the harmonization of the digestive system.

Oolong tea contains rich organic chemical compounds and inorganic mineral elements. Regular consumption of oolong tea can clear heat, detoxify, and be greatly beneficial for relieving dryness.

Dark tea is highly esteemed for its unique fermentation and storage processes. It contains abundant polyphenols and trace elements, believed to help regulate the intestinal microbiota and promote gut health.

In the cold and dry weather of winter, dark tea can warm the stomach and intestines, aiding in improving digestion, while also possessing detoxifying and beautifying effects.

Aged white tea is created through prolonged aging, resulting in a natural mellow taste and distinctive aged aroma. Rich in phenolic compounds and amino acids, it exhibits strong antioxidant properties, assisting in neutralizing free radicals and slowing down the aging process.

During the cold and gloomy winter season, aged white tea is highly favored for its stomach-warming and cold-resisting effects, contributing to enhanced physical well-being.

In winter health maintenance, it is crucial to control the quantity and timing of tea consumption. Moderate tea intake is optimal, as excessive consumption may lead to an excess of caffeine or interfere with the absorption of iron, thereby affecting overall health.

Additionally, during the longer nights of winter, it is particularly important to avoid consuming high-caffeine teas before bedtime to prevent disruptions to sleep quality.

Drinking loose leaf tea in winter is a favored wellness practice for many, but special attention needs to be given to the temperature of the tea. Let's explore why it's important to focus on the temperature of tea during the cold season.

1. Protecting the Oral Cavity and Digestive Tract

In cold winter temperatures, the mucous membranes of the oral cavity and digestive tract are more sensitive. Consuming excessively hot tea can lead to scalding of the oral cavity and even damage the mucous membrane of the esophagus, causing discomfort. The appropriate temperature for tea is between 50-60 degrees Celsius, reducing irritation to the oral cavity and digestive tract.

2. Choosing Suitable Tea Ware

In addition to the temperature of the tea itself, the insulating properties of tea ware are also crucial. Choosing appropriate tea ware, such as insulated cups or teapots, can better maintain the optimal temperature of the tea, extending the duration of heat retention.

Drinking tea in winter is aimed at warming the body and boosting resistance, but it is important to avoid consuming strong tea.

Consuming strong tea in winter can exacerbate discomfort in the gastrointestinal tract. The digestive system is more susceptible to discomfort during the winter, and drinking strong tea can increase the burden on the stomach and intestines, leading to symptoms such as bloating and abdominal discomfort, affecting digestion.

High-concentration tea contains higher levels of caffeine, and excessive intake may cause palpitations, insomnia, and other discomforts. In the winter, a season already prone to insomnia, excessive caffeine intake can worsen this issue.