2015 "Shou Mei" White Tea Cake from Fuding

Shou Mei is a type of white tea from China, named for its leaves that resemble "long, longevity eyebrows." It is one of the most widely produced varieties of white tea. Primarily grown in Fujian Province, including regions like Fuding, Zhenghe, and Jianyang, Shou Mei is considered a traditional white tea. Due to its relaxed picking standards and affordable price, it is known as a popular, everyday white tea.

Shou Mei leaves are large, broad, and slightly coarse, with few tea buds. The dried leaves vary in color, ranging from yellow-green to gray-green or dark green, often covered with white fuzz. Typically, Shou Mei is made from mature tea leaves and a small number of buds, with a picking standard of one bud with three or four leaves, making it the most mature picking among white tea varieties.

The production process for Shou Mei is relatively simple, involving natural withering and drying, which preserves its natural flavor and nutritional value. When brewed, Shou Mei produces a tea with a golden-yellow or amber hue. Its flavor is rich and full-bodied, with sweet notes of fruit and floral aromas. Compared to Bai Hao Yin Zhen (Silver Needle) or Bai Mu Dan (White Peony), Shou Mei has a bolder and more robust taste.

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 white tea

1. Assist in anti-oxidation
White tea is rich in tea polyphenols, especially epicatechin (EGCG) and catechins, which have powerful antioxidant effects and can help remove free radicals in the body, slow down the aging process, and protect cells from oxidative damage.

2. Assist in enhancing immunity
White tea is rich in amino acids, vitamin C and minerals, which can enhance the body's immunity, help improve resistance and prevent the occurrence of diseases.

3. Assist in improving cardiovascular health
Studies have shown that white tea has a certain effect of lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, which helps improve cardiovascular health. Long-term drinking of white tea helps reduce the risk of arteriosclerosis and thrombosis, thereby reducing the incidence of heart disease.

4. Assist in promoting digestion
White tea helps improve gastrointestinal function and promotes digestion and absorption of food. It has a certain antibacterial effect and can relieve gastrointestinal discomfort and indigestion.

5. Assist in reducing fat and losing weight
The tea polyphenols in white tea can help break down fat and promote fat metabolism, so it has a certain fat-reducing effect, which helps control weight and prevent obesity.

6. Assist in protecting the liver
The various natural substances contained in white tea have the effect of resisting liver damage, which can help reduce the burden on the liver, protect liver cells, and promote liver health.

7. Assist in improving skin health
The antioxidants in white tea can promote skin repair, reduce ultraviolet damage to the skin, help maintain skin elasticity and luster, and delay aging.

8. Assist in promoting blood sugar balance
Some studies have shown that white tea helps regulate blood sugar levels, enhances insulin sensitivity, and has a certain effect on the prevention and auxiliary treatment of diabetes.

9. Assist in relieving stress and relaxing the mood
The fragrance and mild taste of white tea can help relieve daily stress, soothe the nervous system, relax the body and mind, and help improve sleep quality.

10. Assist in protecting oral health
The natural ingredients in white tea have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, which can reduce the growth of bacteria in the mouth and prevent oral problems such as tooth decay and periodontal disease.

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: Shou Mei, White Tea, Fuding