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High Mountain Tea

High Mountain Tea(Gaoshan or Gao Shan Cha in Chinese) is special group of teas that are grown in high altitudes of central Taiwan. Originally, brought over from China, they are a type of tea that is harvested slowly due to the lack of sunlight and location in which they are planted in. Despite this, they are able to benefit from both the humidity and rain in that geographical area. Generally, they are expensive, so Thailand and Vietnam have grown a lower quality, thus being much cheaper than the ones grown in Taiwan.

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Preparation

Once harvested, the leaves that were handpicked from the branch of the tea plant then are then placed to dry and wither in the sunlight. This part is said to be done to then bring out the flavor of rose and/or jasmine. Once that is done, the tea is then rolled by hand and shaped through "low-level" oxidation. This part of the process is to get rid of the stronger tastes within the tea leaves. Once shaped, the tea will have become pearls or strips. To finally finish the oxidation process along with the overall process, the tea pearl or strips are then fired, or roasted at a high temperature.

Varieties

Ali Shan /Ali Mountain: Considered to be the most common of the mountain tea series which is available and accessible to a majority of areas in the world. It is noted greatly for its more floral and fruity flavor.

Ali Shan LuZhu and Shan Ling Xi: These teas are noted for their clear taste and very little astringency.

Li Shan /Pear Mountain: These teas are noted for their fruitiness.

Da Yun Ling Mountain: Noted to be a premium tea that requires minimal processing. It results as a green oolong with a sweet clean unique flavor.

Health Benefits

Since high mountain teas are part of a series of oolong teas, it will contain nutrients such as a antioxidants, polyphenols, vitamins A, C and E, and minerals.

One way it beneficial is that it improves stomach digestion, though antioxidants which help stimulate metabolism and improve it's function to break down foods. It does so by reducing acidity in the stomach with would reduce lead temporary conditions such as indigestion, stomach cramps and painful intestinal issues. Furthermore it would also improve function of the kidney to filter out toxins and wastes and would result in weight loss. Another benefit of drinking high mountain tea is its source of antioxidants and polyphenols which may help reduce bad (LDL) cholesterol deposits in blood vessels and controls the forming of blood clots. A cup of unsweetened tea is recommended to reduce the risk of heart disease and strokes. It is thought to regulate blood pressure and balance blood sugar, resulting in decreasing the risk of diabetes. Another benefit of drinking this oolong tea is that it gives a immunization boost. It does so by building up immune defenses to fighting bacteria, viruses, and infectious microbes.Besides medical benefits it provides, it is also known starts work quickly once entering the body, such as eliminating bacteria that cause bad breath.

References

1. Reid, Daniel. “How to Prepare Oolong Tea (How to Brew or Infuse).” Oolong-Tea.Org Store, www.oolong-tea.org/how-to-prepare-oolong-tea-brew-infuse/.

2. “High Mountain Gao Shan: Spring and Winter Tea – Tea Trekker.” Tea Trekker, teatrekker.com/product-category/gao-shan/.

3. “High Mountain Tea-Gaoshan Oolong Tea.” High Mountain Tea - Gaoshan Oolong Tea, www.therighttea.com/high-mountain-tea.html.