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Oolong Tea: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects By Dr. Rajeev Singh

Introduction: 

Tea consumption has a long and interesting history that dates back to 2007 BC. According to Chinese mythology, a ruler Shen Nong discovered the stimulating properties of tea by accident 4000 years ago. During a summer visit to a distant region of his country, he halted for rest. The servants began boiling water for the ruler to drink by his decision that the drinking water needed to be boiled as a hygienic precaution. The water turned a dark brown as some leaves from an adjacent tree fell into it. The beverage fascinated the ruler. Chinese history claims that this ancient ruler was the first person to drink tea. Oolong tea is a semi-fermented type of tea. It is a beverage prepared from the leaves of Camellia sinensis and originated in ancient China. It is one of the best health-protective non-alcoholic beverages. No wonder it is also termed as a ‘nutraceutical drink’.1 Let’s read and find out more about this brewed oolong tea. 

Nutritional Value of Oolong Tea: 

100g of oolong tea possesses the following nutrients.3 

Nutrient Content 
Water 99.8g 
Energy 1kcal 
Ash 0.02g 
Carbohydrate 0.15g 
Calcium (Ca) 1mg 
Magnesium (Mg) 1mg 
Phosphorus (P) 1mg 
Potassium (K) 12mg 
Sodium (Na) 3mg 
Zinc (Zn) 0.01mg 
Manganese (Mn) 0.21mg 
Caffeine 16mg 
Theobromine 2mg 

Table 1: Nutrient values present in 100g of oolong tea3 

Along with these, oolong tea contains vitamin B3 (Niacin) 0.06mg.3 

Properties of Oolong Tea: 

Some of the oolong tea properties are as follows:2  

Potential Uses of Oolong Tea for Overall Health: 

Drinking oolong tea every day may have health benefits which are as follows:  

1. Potential uses of oolong tea for breast cancer 

In 2018, Haihong Shi et al. researched the effects of oolong tea against breast cancer. The results showed that catechins present in oolong tea might induce DNA damage which may be helpful against breast cancer cell growth. As a result, it might be helpful in the management of breast cancer.4 However, kindly consult the neurologist for diagnosis and treatment. Furthermore, avoid using oolong tea as self-medication, as there could be severe side effects. 

2. Potential uses of oolong tea for postprandial hyperlipidaemia 

Postprandial hyperlipidaemia is a condition caused by consuming fat-rich meals during the day. It is characterised by high serum-triglyceride levels. Suzuki et al., 2018 discovered that oolong tea-polymerised polyphenols (OTPP) might inhibit the pancreatic enzyme lipase. Pancreatic lipase breaks the fats in our food, which get absorbed in the intestine. OTPP in oolong tea may inhibit the absorption of lipids in the gastrointestinal tract and increase lipid elimination.5 However, more research is needed to check the effects of oolong tea in this condition. Kindly consult the doctor for diagnosis and treatment.  

3. Potential uses of oolong tea for obesity 

Obesity is a condition characterised by an imbalance in energy intake and expenditure. This can result in various diseases, including hypertension, type II diabetes, coronary artery disease and cancer. According to Wu et al., 2018, tea polysaccharides mixed with polyphenols (TPSM) in oolong tea might effectively manage obesity. Oolong tea consumption might reduce the rate of food intake. It may also inhibit the body from absorbing fatty acids, reducing obesity. It also proved that contents present in oolong tea, along with TPSM, might be effective in weight management.6 However, more research is required to find out the use of oolong tea for obese patients. So, please consult a physician for a diagnosis and treatment if you have weight-related concerns. 

4. Potential uses of oolong tea for the liver 

Venkatakrishnan et al. in 2018 researched that oolong along with other teas may show hepatoprotective effects. It may reduce oxidative stress by enhancing the antioxidant defence system. It might also reduce inflammation, stop liver cell death and control lipid metabolism. In addition, it may avoid liver fat accumulation.2 However, more research is required to demonstrate the effects of oolong tea on the liver. So, please consult the doctor for all liver-related diagnoses and treatment. 

5. Potential uses of oolong tea for blood pressure 

In a study by Xin et al. in 2022, rats on a high-salt diet had their blood pressure tested before and after drinking tea. The results showed that the consumption of oolong tea lowered blood pressure. Along with lowering blood pressure, it may also be helpful in the management of hypertrophy and necrosis of cardiomyocytes which are the conditions that may contribute to heart failure.7 Nonetheless, please consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment if you suspect blood pressure or heart-related symptoms. Avoid self-medication as it could lead to the worsening of the condition. 

6. Potential uses of oolong tea for kidneys 

In a study by Xin et al. done in 2022, kidney tissue damage was studied in rats on a high-salt diet before and after drinking tea. It showed that oolong tea consumption might help recover from kidney damage. It may also lower the necrosis (death) of renal tubular epithelial cells, the main cause of kidney injury.7 However, the effects of oolong tea on the kidneys require further research. Therefore, please consult a doctor for all kidney-related concerns and do not self-medicate. 

7. Other uses of oolong tea: 

Though there are studies that show the benefits of oolong tea in various conditions, these are insufficient and there is a need for further studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of oolong tea on human health.  

Based on some studies I came across, oolong tea is a good source of l-theanine that helps in reducing anxiety and improving attention and alertness. Additionally, l-theanine might also be useful in managing cognitive disabilities like Parkinson’s disease or Alzheimer’s disease in elderly patients.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)

Also Read: Mullein Tea Benefits: A Deep Dive into Its Research-Based Health Attributes

How to Use Oolong Tea? 

We can consume oolong tea to get the discussed benefits. Dried tea leaves are brewed in boiling water and strained into a cup.  

You must consult a qualified doctor before taking any herbal supplements. Do not discontinue or replace an ongoing treatment of modern medicine with an ayurvedic/herbal preparation without consulting a qualified doctor.   

Side Effects of Oolong Tea: 

Consult the ayurvedic doctor who prescribed it to you. They will be able to identify the issue and help solve it.   

Based on my observations, oolong tea (Camellia sinensis) leaves’ extract can be used for its multiple medicinal properties. Some studies show that oolong tea might have beneficial effects on many oral diseases, namely gum diseases and dental caries to name a few.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

Precautions to Take with Oolong Tea:  

Also Read: Barley Tea: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects & More!

Interactions with Other Drugs:2 

Frequently Asked Questions: 

State the properties of oolong tea. 

Oolong tea may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuro-protective, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, anti-cancer and anti-obesity properties.2 Although, more research on the properties of oolong tea is required. Kindly consult a doctor before beginning your intake of oolong tea. 

What are the side effects if we consume excessive oolong tea and caffeine? 

Consuming too much oolong tea and caffeine may cause insomnia, elevated blood pressure, anxiety, tremor and short-term nervous system stimulation.2 However, please consult a doctor for better health results. 

Is oolong tea good for weight loss?  

Oolong tea may be beneficial in weight loss. It may also act as an anti-obesity agent. However, more research is required to determine the oolong tea effects on weight loss. 

Is oolong tea good for hair? 

No. However, more research is needed to know the oolong tea benefits for hair. Kindly consult a doctor. 

Does oolong tea have any effects on vision? 

No. Although, more research is required to determine the impact of oolong tea on vision. 

References: 

  1. Pushpangadan P, Latha PG. Tea as nutraceutical. International Journal of Tea Science. 2002;2:59-63. Available from: http://52.172.159.94/index.php/ists/article/view/51547 
  1. Tang GY, Meng X, Gan RY, Zhao CN, Liu Q, Feng YB, Li S, Wei XL, Atanasov AG, Corke H, Li HB. Health functions and related molecular mechanisms of tea components: An update review. International journal of molecular sciences. 2019 Dec 8;20(24):6196. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6941079/pdf/ijms-20-06196.pdf 
  1. FoodData Central. Beverages, tea, Oolong, brewed [Internet]. Department of Agriculture. [Cited 2022, Nov 15] Available from: https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/174120/nutrients 
  1. Shi H, Liu J, Tu Y, Freter CE, Huang C. Oolong tea extract induces DNA damage and cleavage and inhibits breast cancer cell growth and tumorigenesis. Anticancer Research. 2018 Nov 1;38(11):6217-23. Available from: https://ar.iiarjournals.org/content/anticanres/38/11/6217.full.pdf 
  1. Suzuki R, Fujita S, Kawasaki T, Honda1l Y, Shirataki Y. Effects of Oolong Tea on Postprandial Triglyceride Levels. Available from: https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/188212146.pdf 
  1. Wu T, Xu J, Chen Y, Liu R, Zhang M. Oolong tea polysaccharide and polyphenols prevent obesity development in Sprague–Dawley rats. Food & nutrition research. 2018;62. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6303733/pdf/FNR-62-1599.pdf 
  1. Ye X, Tang X, Li F, Zhu J, Wu M, Wei X, Wang Y. Green and Oolong Tea Extracts With Different Phytochemical Compositions Prevent Hypertension and Modulate the Intestinal Flora in a High-Salt Diet Fed Wistar Rats. Frontiers in Nutrition. 2022;9. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9121855/pdf/fnut-09-892801.pdf 
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10 Best Health Benefits Of Oolong Tea

Healthy teas are the pretty old fad now that appeals you numerous health benefits. Green tea is one of the popular types of tea from all other teas. However, many are not big fans of green tea and still looking out for some better options.

You can try Oolong tea!!

Oolong tea is a rare and versatile category of tea. It represents only 2% of the tea, but it is well worth discovering. Oolong tea combines the goodness of several dark and green teas. It has miraculous health benefits from treating different disorders to preventing several chronic diseases.

What is oolong tea?  

Oolong tea is a traditional Chinese tea and, the famous type comes from the Fuijan province of China that obtained from the leaves, buds, and branches of the camellia Sinensis plant. This one is the same plant used to make green tea, but the difference is how the tea is processed. Oolong tea may consume in China, Taiwan, Japan, and India.

Oolong tea is made from the same plant that green and black teas are made from. However, oolong leaves are processed using a team-making process called oxidation, in which the tea leaves are exposed to air. This causes the leaves to ferment and oxidize for certain periods of time based on which the leaves gain their flavour, colour, etc.

The history of oolong tea was back to the Ming Dynasty around the mid-1300s. Flavor ranges from light floral tones to cinnamon, toasted bread, ripe fruit, and caramel notes. Oolong is different by flavors and leaves matching the terroir. 

Nutritional facts of oolong tea

 Oolong tea is rich in black and green tea nutrients that are beneficial for our body. Oolong tea is rich in – 

  1. Vitamins – vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin K
  2. Minerals – calcium, manganese, copper, carotene, selenium, and potassium
  3. Antioxidants – polyphenolic compounds like catechins, theaflavine, gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, EGCg, etc.
  4. Caffeine 
  5. Amino acid – theanine

Health benefits of oolong tea

Almost all health benefits that oolong tea provides us are because of antioxidants. Oolong tea can help control mild to severe disorders. 

1: May lowers heart disease risk

Antioxidants are always beneficial for our heart health. Consumption of oolong tea can associate with reducing heart disease risk significantly. According to a Chinese study, people who drank at least 10 ounces of oolong tea a week had a lower risk of heart vessel blockages and stroke. It also contains caffeine that improves metabolism, and this directly benefits the heart. Oolong tea is also known to reduce increased blood pressure.  Another way oolong tea benefits the body is by lowering total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels.

2: Help reduce cholesterol levels 

Oolong is known to reduce bad cholesterol from the blood and improve your heart health. It is semi-oxidized that produces a perfectly sized polyphenol molecule that can activate the enzyme lipase that dissolves body fat.

3: May balance blood sugar 

The polyphenol antioxidants present in oolong tea may control blood sugar levels. It also reduces the risk of getting diabetes type 2. Some studies have found a link between oolong tea and lower fasting blood sugar levels. However, it will not improve glucose metabolism in non-diabetic adults.

4: May promote weight loss

Oolong tea help expedites our metabolism two hours after drinking it. It contains polyphenols that can block enzymes that build fat.

The caffeine in oolong tea has a role to play too in obesity. One 2009 study found that tea containing catechins and caffeine-induced more weight loss than tea containing only one component. The two components work together to maintain lean body mass.

Another study shows how oolong tea may help reduce gain in weight due to a high-fat diet, hepatic lipids, and even white adipose tissue weights. Full strength oolong tea may help increase energy and fat oxidation.

5: May lower the cancer risk  

Oolong tea is full of compounds like catechins and antioxidants that  might  play a small role in cancer prevention. According to a Chinese study, oolong tea can help reduce the risk of ovarian cancer in women. Simply steeping oolong tea in hot water can help you get the maximum benefits. Another study in Taiwan states that there are links between the prevention of throat cancer and the consumption of oolong tea.

6: May boost your immunity 

Oolong tea contains a lot of antioxidants flavonoids that prevent cellular damage by improving your immunity. The tea can also increase the production of antibacterial proteins in your body, which help fight infection.

7: Increases mental alertness and sleep quality 

Oolong tea is a good source of caffeine that keeps your mental alertness active and reduces stress. Caffeine can increase the release of norepinephrine and dopamine. These two brain messengers are beneficial for mood, attention, and brain function. Regular oolong tea consumption might be cause longer sleep and reduce sleep latency.  Oolong tea also contains huge amounts of polyphenols which help the body reduce stress levels and is also said to potentially prevent Alzheimer’s.

8: May improve skin health 

Oolong tea can suppress those allergic reactions because it combats free radicals. Antioxidants are essential for skin health to keep it as beautiful as it is. This tea also helps treat acne and blemishes and wrinkles, and other signs of ageing.

Oolong tea is particularly beneficial in eczema cases that occur in conjunction with allergies or sensitivities. Drinking oolong tea thrice a day for six months can give you good results.

9: May improve bone density 

It is essential when the calcium loss from your body is more like in menopausal age.  Drinking oolong tea, as per studies, can prevent this by maintaining high bone density. It also contains more calcium and magnesium that keep your bones stronger. Polyphenols in tea may help to increase bone mass and bone strength too. 

10: May prevent tooth decay 

Oolong tea can protect your teeth from acids produced by various bacteria. One study showed that rinsing the mouth with oolong tea exact may ”significantly inhibit plaque deposition. Apart from this, tea leaves also contain fluorides, an element that is often added to drinking water, mouthwash, and toothpaste, to help prevent cavities in the teeth.

Read more about: 8 Incredible Health Benefits Of Passion Fruit

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