Introduction: When brewing tea, it's customary to rinse the tea leaves with the first infusion. Do you know why? Many tea enthusiasts may not be aware, so today we’ll explore the reasons behind washing Oolong tea before drinking.

Generally, jasmine tea leaves may retain excessive pesticide residues, while Oolong tea and green tea can contain higher levels of chemical elements like lead and copper. Therefore, the first step in brewing these teas is to rinse them.

Reason 1: Removing Dust

Most people discard the first infusion when brewing Oolong tea, a practice known as washing tea. They believe this removes debris and dust from the tea leaves, making it more hygienic.

Reason 2: Enhancing Aroma Quickly

Washing Oolong tea helps the leaves unfurl and release their flavors faster, allowing drinkers to appreciate the tea’s aroma sooner, rather than just removing impurities.

Reason 3: Healthier Consumption

Oolong tea contains beneficial compounds like polyphenols, ether extracts, and amino acids. Washing the tea ensures a healthier and more enjoyable drinking experience.

Reason 4: Reflecting Culinary Culture and Etiquette

Washing tea is an essential step in brewing Oolong tea, not only to highlight its aroma and taste but also as a reflection of China’s 5,000-year-old culinary culture and etiquette.