Pu'er Tea is a specialty tea from Yunnan Province. Many tea enthusiasts, new to Pu'er tea, are unfamiliar with its properties and unsure how to drink it properly, which can result in a less flavorful cup. Pu'er tea comes in two types: raw (sheng) and ripe (shou). There are certain nuances to brewing and enjoying raw Pu'er tea. Let's explore them together!

How to Drink Raw Pu'er Tea

1. Choice of Teaware.

When brewing raw Pu'er tea, it is more suitable to use a Gaiwan or a purple clay pot. Brewing with a gaiwan is easier to master and allows for better control over the taste and mouthfeel of the tea. If you don't have much time to brew the tea, you can also use a portable brewing cup, which is convenient and practical.

2. Water Temperature for Brewing Raw Pu'er Tea.

In general, most raw Pu'er teas are picked at the standard of one bud with two or three leaves, including buds, leaves, and twigs. The water temperature for brewing raw Pu'er tea should not be too low. For newer and more tender raw Pu'er teas, the water temperature should be around 95°C. For older and coarser raw Pu'er teas, boiling water must be used to fully open up the tea, otherwise, it may taste bitter or astringent. A lower water temperature will fail to extract the aroma and flavor of the tea, resulting in a rough-tasting or watery infusion.

3. Brewing Time for Raw Pu'er Tea.

There is no fixed standard for the brewing time of raw Pu'er tea. The best method is to adjust according to your preferred strength. Generally, Pu'er tea is brewed for about 30 to 40 seconds. The first infusion uses boiling water to rinse the tea. For less compressed raw teas, steep in boiling water for 5-20 seconds; for more compressed raw teas, steep for 15-30 seconds. The second infusion can vary between 5-20 seconds, and the third infusion's brewing time can be adjusted based on the concentration of the second infusion. If the tea is strong, reduce the brewing time; if it's weak, extend the brewing time.

Precautions When Drinking Raw Pu'er Tea

1. It is best to drink raw Pu'er tea about half an hour after a meal, as this aids digestion. Drinking Tea immediately after a meal is not good for the stomach and can inhibit the absorption of nutrients.

2. Do not drink raw Pu'er tea on an empty stomach, as it can be relatively cool, especially newly made raw tea, which can be harsh on the stomach. Drinking it on an empty stomach without a habit of drinking tea can easily cause stomach pain or even tea drunkenness.

3. The best time to drink raw Pu'er tea is in the afternoon. Raw Pu'er tea contains active substances, particularly in its fresh form, which helps with alertness and wakefulness. Afternoon is often when people feel drowsy, so a cup of Pu'er tea can help keep you awake and clear-headed. Drinking raw Pu'er tea in summer can also effectively relieve heat.

4. Women should avoid drinking raw Pu'er tea during special periods such as menstruation, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause. Also, avoid drinking tea when you are ill. However, if you have a heat condition, you can drink raw tea.

Mainly, raw Pu'er tea can help cleanse the intestines, reduce lipids, invigorate, lower blood pressure, and aid in weight loss. It is suitable for younger people. However, due to the higher content of active components, those who are prone to insomnia, have a fever, suffer from gastric ulcers, or are pregnant should avoid drinking it. Aged raw Pu'er tea, however, has undergone transformations in its compounds, resulting in a richer and milder flavor, making it gentler on the body and suitable for a wider range of people to enjoy.