Organic Gunpowder Green Tea (Camellia sinesis)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Gunpowder Green Tea (Camellia sinensis)

Family:

Theaceae

Common Names:

Pearl Tea, Zhu Cha (in Chinese), Ping Shui

Origin:

Originated in China, especially in the Zhejiang Province, but is now produced in other regions such as Taiwan and Sri Lanka.

Parts Used:

Leaves

Description:

Gunpowder green tea is named for its unique appearance, as each tea leaf is rolled into a small, tight pellet resembling grains of gunpowder. This rolling process preserves the tea’s freshness and enhances its longevity. When steeped, the pellets unfurl and release a rich, slightly smoky flavor.

History and Folklore:

Gunpowder tea has a long history in Chinese culture, dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). It was initially a tea reserved for special occasions and later became a popular export. The unique rolling method helped keep the tea fresh over long journeys, which was especially useful in the humid sea environments on trading ships. It’s traditionally used as a base for mint tea in North Africa, especially in Moroccan tea ceremonies.

Metaphysical Properties:

Gunpowder tea is associated with clarity, grounding, and endurance. Drinking gunpowder tea is thought to promote mental clarity and concentration, and it has been used in rituals and meditations to support focus and grounding.

Botany:

Gunpowder tea comes from the same tea plant, Camellia sinensis, as other green teas. However, it’s distinct due to the meticulous rolling of the leaves into small pellets, which helps lock in its flavor and aroma.

Growing and Harvesting:

The leaves are hand-picked, with younger leaves typically offering the best quality. After harvesting, the leaves are withered, steamed, rolled tightly into pellets, and then dried. This rolling process is repeated multiple times to achieve the dense pellet form that gunpowder tea is known for.

Constituents:

• Catechins (EGCG): Powerful antioxidants that support cell health and reduce inflammation.
• Amino Acids (L-theanine): Promotes relaxation and mental clarity while countering caffeine’s stimulating effects.
• Caffeine: A natural stimulant that increases alertness and energy.
• Flavonoids: Antioxidants that protect against oxidative stress.
• Polyphenols: Compounds that support cardiovascular health and protect against cellular damage.

Energetics:

• Temperature: Cooling
• Taste: Slightly Smoky, Vegetal, Bitter, Astringent

Medicinal Actions:

• Antioxidant: Protects cells from oxidative damage and supports overall wellness.
• Stimulant: Increases energy levels and mental alertness, with a gentler effect than coffee.
• Thermogenic: Supports metabolism and may assist in weight management by mildly increasing energy expenditure.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation, particularly helpful for cardiovascular health and metabolic support.
• Detoxifying: Supports liver function and the body’s natural detoxification processes.

System Affinities:

• Nervous System: Enhances mental clarity and focus, offering a gentle, sustained energy boost.
• Digestive System: Promotes digestion and can help reduce bloating and nausea.
• Cardiovascular System: Supports heart health by improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and providing antioxidants.
• Immune System: Contains polyphenols that support immune function and help the body resist infections.

Uses:

• Tea (Traditional Brewing): Gunpowder tea is often brewed at lower temperatures (around 175-185°F or 80-85°C) to prevent bitterness. The tea can be enjoyed on its own or with mint, as in Moroccan tea, for an invigorating, refreshing drink.
• Blends: Gunpowder tea is a popular base for blending with mint, lemon, or honey for added flavor and therapeutic benefits.
• Cold Brew: Gunpowder tea can be cold brewed for a smoother, less astringent flavor, which is refreshing on hot days.

Cautions:

• Caffeine Sensitivity: Gunpowder green tea contains caffeine, which may cause restlessness or jitteriness in caffeine-sensitive individuals.
• Iron Absorption: Like other teas, gunpowder tea contains tannins, which can interfere with iron absorption. It is best consumed between meals to avoid impacting nutrient intake.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Moderate consumption is generally considered safe, but it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider due to caffeine content.

Scientific Studies:

1. A study published in Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry highlighted the high antioxidant properties of green tea catechins, supporting their role in protecting cells from oxidative damage.
2. Research in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition demonstrated that green tea catechins, like those in gunpowder tea, can support metabolism and aid in weight management.
3. A study in Phytomedicine examined the anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits of green tea, showing its positive effects on cholesterol levels and vascular health.