What’s going on in the wide world of tea? From health stories to exciting research that could change the way we grow tea around the world, here’s a look at what’s brewing.
Oolong Tea: Why It’s Good for You
How long since you’ve had Oolong? It might be time to make it your next cuppa. This article explores some of the best health benefits associated with Oolong, including its ability to give you a sugar-free energy boost, healthier skin, improved bone health and reduced risk for heart disease. Did we mention Oolong is one of our personal favorites? Now you know why!
Record Global Tea Output Likely This Year
Despite a year full of shifting climate patterns, labor disputes and political crises in tea-growing regions, 2013 is on track to be a record year for tea production! That’s right, this year could signal that highest volume of global tea production on record. With the global demand for tea growing, tea farmers and producers are rising to the challenge in a big way. What’s old is new again, and tea’s popularity shows no signs of stopping as consumers’ thirst for healthy beverages continues to grow.
Qing Dynasty Tea Brick Sells for US$1.2m
If you happen to have tea bricks from Ancient China sitting around, you might want to considering selling them! A tea brick dating back to the Qing dynasty just fetched a pricey sum at a recent auction in China, selling for $1.2 million. Even more remarkable, the lucky auction winner says its value is actually much higher–closer to $8 million!
Montana State University Professor Receives Grant To Study Environment’s Impact On Tea
Changing climate patterns in tea-growing countries like China could have a serious effect on tea’s health qualities, and not in the way you may suspect. A research team from Montana State University has received funding to study the effects of weather on tea production in four regions of China. One of the hypotheses they will likely test is the effect of heavy rains on tea’s health benefits. MSU health and human development professor Selena Ahmed suspects that monsoons could be detrimental to tea’s overall health benefits, reducing antioxidants by as much as 50%.
Have any news stories about tea caught your eye lately? Share your favorite headlines in the comment section below.
