Chinese Flower Tea

The habit of drinking tea originated in China which is why there are numerous varieties of teas found in this country. Right from green tea and Oolong tea to white tea, black tea, etc., all belong to China.

Another popular type of Chinese tea that is gaining popularity all over the world is the flower tea. The flower tea and flowering tea are two different concepts which have been in practice in China since a long time. Here we will see more about these teas, their method of preparation and health benefits.

This flower tea is available in different types and can also be made using different methods. As the name suggests, flower tea is a type of tea in which dried flowers are used instead of dried tea leaves. In another method, you can use your regular tea leaves and also put in flowers for their aroma and health benefits.

In the third method of making flower tea, green or herbal tea is used as the base, and dried edible flowers are brewed along with it to make scented green tea or flower tea. Herbal Chinese flower tea is made from the leaves, root, stem and flowers of a herbal plant.

On the other hand, the concept of flowering or blooming tea is completely different. You get a small bundle of dried leaves and a flower. This is to be boiled in water in a glass teapot. As the water boils, the bundle unfurls and the flower blooms. This is a very spectacular sight.

When the flower blossoms fully, the tea is ready; and you can enjoy the sight as well as the taste of the flower tea. Jasmine and Chrysanthemum are the flowers that are commonly used for preparing this tea, however, other flowers like lily, hibiscus, etc. can also be used. Let us now take a look at the health benefits of this tea.

One of the major health benefits of flower or flowering tea is that these teas are devoid of caffeine. Therefore, one does not suffer from any side effects associated with caffeine on having this tea.

However, note that though pure flower teas have no caffeine flower green teas do contain caffeine.

Following is a list of other health benefits associated with flower tea.

• Herbal flower tea or flower tea mixed with green tea is believed to have a calming effect on the body and mind.
• Chrysanthemum tea is good for the eyes and has a soothing effect on them.
• Flower tea containing jasmine is beneficial for proper digestion.

• Flower teas also contain immune enhancing agents and hence, are helpful for keeping infectious diseases like the common cold and flu at bay.
• Flower and flowering tea helps reduce blood pressure and also aids in prevention of heart diseases.

• The hibiscus flower tea is particularly beneficial for lowering high blood pressure.
• Many weight loss programs advise people to have herbal and green tea as they help in burning off fat. Flower tea is no exception!
• Lastly, it is also believed that flower tea is rich in vitamins and minerals, and hence helps in improving the overall health.

Although there are no potential side effects associated with flower tea, it is wise to consult the doctor before taking it up on regular basis. Pregnant women and people suffering from any chronic disorder, low blood pressure, heart diseases, etc. should specifically consult the doctor before trying the flower tea! Secondly, it is not advisable to have scented or flower green tea in excess as it contains caffeine.

The Chinese flower tea is usually enjoyed for its simple pleasure, rather than its health benefits. You can look for authentic flower or flowering tea on the Internet and buy it. So, the next time you have a tea party, why not surprise your friends with some blooming tea in a glass teapot? Good luck!