Jasmine Tea Guide
The world's most beloved scented tea β from production to perfect brew
What is Jasmine Tea?
Jasmine tea (θθθ±θΆ, mΓ²lΓ¬ huΔ chΓ‘) is green, white, or occasionally oolong tea scented with fresh jasmine flowers. Originating in Fujian, China during the Song Dynasty (960β1279 CE), it has become the most consumed flavored tea globally, with annual production exceeding 100,000 metric tons.
Tea Grades & Types
| Grade | Scenting Cycles | Base Tea | Price (β±/kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dragon Pearl (ιΎη ) | 7β9 | High-grade green tea buds | β±8,000β25,000 |
| Silver Needle (ιΆι) | 6β7 | White tea buds | β±6,000β20,000 |
| Snail Spring (η’§θΊζ₯) | 5β6 | Premium green tea | β±4,000β12,000 |
| Monkey King (η΄ι) | 4β5 | Large-leaf green tea | β±3,000β8,000 |
| Standard Grade | 1β3 | Green tea fannings | β±400β1,500 |
The Scenting Process
- Harvest flowers: Pick jasmine buds at peak fragrance (6β10 AM). buds should be white-tipped, just beginning to open.
- Layer with tea: Spread a layer of tea leaves, then a layer of fresh flowers. Ratio: 1:1 by weight.
- Scent overnight: Cover and let sit for 4β24 hours. Tea absorbs the fragrance.
- Remove flowers: Discard spent flowers (they are not consumed).
- Dry the tea: Gently dry to reduce moisture content.
- Repeat: For premium teas, repeat steps 1β5 up to 9 times with fresh flowers each time.
More cycles = more intense, complex fragrance = higher price.
Perfect Brewing Guide
Water Temperature
75β85Β°C (167β185Β°F). Never boiling β it burns the delicate flavor.
Steep Time
2β3 minutes for first infusion. Can re-steep 2β3 times.
Tea-to-Water Ratio
2β3g tea per 150ml water. Adjust to taste.
Best Vessel
Glass or porcelain gaiwan. Avoid metal or strongly flavored vessels.
Brewing Steps
- Warm the teapot/gaiwan with hot water. Discard.
- Add tea leaves. Appreciate the dry leaf aroma.
- Pour water at 75β85Β°C. Don't pour directly on leaves β pour along the side.
- Steep 2β3 minutes. The liquor should be pale gold with jasmine aroma.
- Pour completely. Don't let leaves sit in water between infusions.
- Re-steep 2β3 times, adding 30 seconds each time.
Health Benefits
- Antioxidants: Rich in catechins and polyphenols from green tea base
- Relaxation: L-theanine promotes calm alertness without drowsiness
- Weight management: May boost metabolism and fat oxidation
- Heart health: Associated with reduced LDL cholesterol
- Oral health: Catechins inhibit bacterial growth
- Skin health: Antioxidants support skin health from within