As legend has it, Lapsang Souchong tea earned its smoky flavor when Chinese tea traders had to find an efficient way to preserve their teas for shipment during the Qing era, which began in the 17th century. Harvested, rolled, oxidized and fire-dried over aromatic pinewood, this tea has an intense taste that evokes images of campfires and whiskey. Lapsang Souchong, which is made from the leaves of the tea plant closest to the earth, is known as Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong in China. This exceptional black tea delivers many health benefits along with a distinctive blend of flavors.
IMPROVES CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH
Like its fellow black tea varieties, Souchong may help to increase blood flow while reducing the amount of cholesterol in the bloodstream. This, combined with natural antioxidant activity, keeps cholesterol from oxidizing and sticking to blood vessel walls, leading to greater cardiovascular health. Black tea also contains theanine, an amino acid proven to have a calming effect on the body. Since stress is a common culprit in the onset of cardiovascular problems over a long period of time, the ritual of drinking Souchong tea to relax and unwind is an act of good health all its own.
Souchong may help to increase blood flow
STRENGTHENS THE IMMUNE SYSTEM
Drinking tea when you have a cold or the flu doesn't only help us feel better because it's warm and relaxing; it may also work to fight the infection. Tea’s antioxidant properties can give our immune systems a boost to speed up our recovery process and stave off seasonal illnesses in the future.
REDUCES INFLAMMATION
Many nutritionists, herbalists and medical researchers alike believe inflammation to be at the root of many modern diseases, and the antioxidants found in tea may be able to combat this common problem. By preventing damage that causes inflammation, antioxidants are thought to stabilize the body and promote overall health.
Antioxidants found in tea may prevent inflammation.
LOWERS CAFFEINE INTAKE
The negative effects of drinking too much coffee are widely known. Excessive caffeine intake can cause nervousness, jitters and even heart palpitations. Lapsang Souchong and its black tea counterparts often have half the caffeine of coffee, making it a wise alternative for those trying to step down their caffeine intake. When consumed in reasonable amounts, it delivers enough of a pick-me-up to boost alertness without unpleasant side effects.
UNPARALLELED FLAVOR
Aside from the many benefits of lapsang souchong, it offers a deep, earthy flavor profile well-suited to tea lovers who enjoy a darker, smokier cupful. Since its unique taste can be intense, it's best to prepare your first cup with a short steeping time – perhaps three to four minutes – then taste it to determine if you’d like a more potent level of flavor and then let it continue steeping for a minute or two if you’d like.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
You may also enjoy
Tea Preparation
How to Steep Black Currant Tea
Tea Preparation
5 Secrets to the Perfect Cup of Earl Grey Tea
