The Unique Qualities and Health Benefits of Yellow Tea

Yellow tea is a special variety of tea, which was discovered as a result of the processing of green tea. During the processing, some green tea leaves did not get fully dried, resulting in the leaves turning yellow and giving rise to yellow tea. Due to the "mellowing" step in the production process, yellow tea is considered a fermented tea. The classification of yellow tea is based on the size of the tea leaves and their freshness, resulting in three specific types: Huang Xiaocha (small yellow tea), Huang Dacha (big yellow tea), and Huang Yacha (yellow bud tea). The most representative yellow teas include Junshan Yinzhen, Beigang Maojian, and Guangdong Daye Qing.

(1) Junshan Yinzhen: It belongs to the category of yellow bud tea and is one of the representative varieties of yellow tea. Junshan Yinzhen has a long history and is one of China's "Ten Famous Teas". It is also considered a top-grade tea along with Baihao Yinzhen (Silver Needle). Its reputation is due to the strict picking and processing procedures. The picking of Junshan Yinzhen follows the principle of "nine not to pick" to avoid factors that may affect the quality, such as rainwater, dew, pests, freezing, weak growth, and uneven length. The production process involves eight steps, including withering, wrapping in yellow paper, and baking, resulting in the unique yellow color and aroma. Its characteristics include plump buds covered in white hair, apricot-yellow tea liquor, fragrant aroma, and a sweet and mellow taste.

(2) Beigang Maojian: It is a representative variety of small yellow tea with records of consumption dating back to the Tang Dynasty. The production of Beigang Maojian involves five steps: pan-frying, kneading, sweating, repeating frying, and drying. Its characteristics include plump buds and leaves, clear yellow tea liquor, and a light, elegant, and fragrant taste that leaves a refreshing and invigorating feeling.

(3) Guangdong Daye Qing: It is a representative variety of big yellow tea. Its characteristics include plump and thick buds and leaves, yellow-green color, clear and transparent yellow tea liquor, and a sweet and mellow taste.

Yellow tea has a unique quality and not only has high drinking value but also offers health benefits. Regular consumption of yellow tea can help relieve fatigue, soften blood vessels, and increase their elasticity, thereby effectively preventing cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. It can also aid in digestion and has significant therapeutic effects on symptoms such as poor appetite, dizziness, nausea, bloating, and abdominal distension. Additionally, with its refreshing and elegant aroma, yellow tea can freshen breath.