Drinking tea for some time now, I still often hear various rumors about tea. Here, I share three major myths in the tea world to help you break free from misinformation and enjoy every sip of tea healthily.
Rumor 1: Must You Always Wash Tea?
The term "washing tea" is no stranger to tea lovers. It simply means pouring out the first cup of brewed tea to rinse the tea leaves, with the intention of removing dust, debris, or even pesticide residues.
The truth is: A simple rinse with water cannot remove dust or pesticide residues as you might hope. At best, it washes away a small portion of dust. As for pesticides, if there are any residues, they are already embedded in the tea leaves and cannot be easily removed with just a cup of water.
What you may not know: The first brew is packed with rich nutrients and essence, not only delivering the full flavor of the tea but also providing health benefits.
The best time to enjoy West Lake Longjing tea is about five minutes after brewing, when its shape and aroma are at their peak. Would you still want to pour out that first cup?
Rumor 2: Is Newer Tea Always Better?
When spring arrives, the rush for fresh tea begins. Tea enthusiasts eagerly await the first taste of tender pre-Qingming tea, drawn to its fresh and mellow flavor and delicate aroma. But is newer tea always better?
New tea, having been stored for a short time, contains compounds that have not fully oxidized, which can irritate the stomach. For those with sensitive stomachs, it’s advisable to store new tea for a while before drinking. This won’t affect its freshness; in fact, the flavor may improve, offering a more nuanced taste.
Rumor 3: Can You Really Not Drink Tea at Night?
It’s often said that drinking tea at night affects sleep, but this isn’t entirely true. The effect varies depending on the type of tea and individual tolerance.
Some teas have a stimulating effect and are best avoided before bedtime—they might even be more potent than coffee! However, a warm, mild cup of tea can satisfy your craving without disrupting sleep. Just remember to drink in moderation and avoid strong brews before bed!