Concentrated Tea Paste Ripe Pu-erh Tea from Menghai Yunnan

Note: Due to differences in production year and batch, the appearance, packaging, and shape of the product may vary from the image. However, we guarantee that the quality remains consistent.
When you open a package of Pu-erh tea and find a layer of white substance on the surface, don't mistake it for mold. This is actually a natural phenomenon called "frosting," which occurs when the tea has been stored for a long time.

This specialty of Yunnan province uses a technique to take the liquid from the tea leaves and then solidifies the liquid into shapes which can easily be dissolved in water to make tea. 'Cha Gao' literally means 'tea paste', and this technique evolved from a process developed in the Tang 唐 and Song 宋 dynasties, while the process of making Pu-erh Cha Gao in particular was enhanced and perfected during the Qing 清 dynasty, which was considered to be the pinnacle of 'cha gao' quality. Unfortunately, imperial techniques employed during the Qing dynasty were lost with the collapse of the Qing dynasty in 1911, and attempts to revive the industry in subsequent decades fell short and the practice of making tea-paste practically vanished. Now, with modern technology it is possible to produce tea-paste that is of similar quality to that which was produced during the Qing dynasty. When preparing, use one unit per 500 ml of water and pour the water over the unit little by little to allow it time to completely dissolve; some cha gao also require that they be placed into water that has already been poured.

The frosting on aged Pu-erh tea is similar to what happens with dried persimmons, where sugars and other compounds in the tea crystallize during storage. Over time, as the tea ages, the polysaccharides and other natural compounds in the leaves concentrate due to evaporation and fluctuations in humidity. When the storage conditions—temperature and humidity—are right, the surface of the tea leaves can develop a white, frosty layer. This is what's known as "tea frost" or "frost sugar."

The frosty substance is primarily composed of crystallized sugars and amino acids, signaling that the tea has undergone natural fermentation, transformation, and aging in ideal conditions. Tea frost is most commonly found on Pu-erh tea that has been stored for a long time and aged properly, especially in humid environments.

Pu-erh tea with frosting is often considered a sign of good quality, as it indicates that the tea has undergone a lengthy aging process, during which the flavors and aromas have deepened and refined. Frost sugar doesn’t affect the quality of the tea; instead, it enhances the tea's unique flavor profile and value.

Actual colors of the tea may vary somewhat from pictured. Purchase the smallest amount to try before purchasing larger amounts.

Effects and functions of drinking Pu-erh tea

1. Aid digestion and relieve greasiness
Pu-erh tea contains rich tea polyphenols and caffeine, which can stimulate gastric juice secretion and help digestion. In addition, its degreasing properties make it an ideal tea to pair with greasy food, helping to relieve stomach discomfort.

2. Assist in reducing fat and losing weight
The active ingredients in Pu-erh tea can promote fat metabolism. Long-term drinking has a certain effect on lowering cholesterol and triglycerides in the body, so it is favored by many people who want to lose weight.

3. Assist in lowering blood sugar and blood lipids
The tea polysaccharides and fermentation products in Pu-erh tea have a certain effect on regulating blood sugar and lowering blood lipids. It is especially suitable for diabetic patients and people with high blood lipids to drink in moderation.

4. Assist in anti-oxidation and anti-aging
Pu-erh tea contains rich antioxidants, such as tea polyphenols, vitamin C, etc., which can effectively remove free radicals, delay aging, and improve immunity.

5. Assist in antibacterial and anti-inflammatory
The fermentation process of Pu-erh tea produces a large number of beneficial microorganisms. These substances have a certain inhibitory effect on gastrointestinal bacteria, which helps to improve gastrointestinal health and relieve mild inflammation.

6. Helps refresh the mind
The caffeine in Pu-erh tea can stimulate the central nervous system, help improve concentration and relieve fatigue, but the stimulation to the nerves is relatively mild and is not likely to cause palpitations.

7. Helps maintain health and nourish the stomach
Fermented Pu-erh tea is warm in nature, less irritating, and does not hurt the stomach. Moderate drinking has a protective effect on the stomach, especially ripe Pu-erh, which is more suitable for people with weak stomachs.

Important Note:
While tea offers numerous health benefits, it should not replace medications for treating diseases. It is also important to consume it in moderation, as drinking too much strong tea can cause side effects like insomnia or gastrointestinal discomfort. Pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and individuals with insomnia should consult a doctor and drink the tea cautiously based on their specific conditions.

Tags: Concentrated Tea, Ripe Pu-erh Tea, Menghai, Yunnan