Tuocha Q&A

1. When is the best time for me to take tuocha tea?

Tuocha tea can be enjoyed at any time of day, depending on your needs. Many people find that after drinking Tuocha, they experience a sense of comfort in their stomachs and improved digestion. It's beneficial when consumed with meals or during a post-meal relaxation period, as it supports the digestive system. Tuocha is an ideal choice for those prone to indigestion, as it often makes the stomach feel lighter and digestion flows more smoothly.

Unlike other teas, Tuocha's mild characteristics allow it to be consumed without affecting sleep. While the caffeine content increases during fermentation, the oxidation polyphenols (OTP) produced can encapsulate caffeine, preventing it from being absorbed by the body. This means it does not interfere with sleep, making it safe to drink anytime.

 Tuocha tea can be consumed on an empty stomach, allowing it to exhibit its various health benefits better. Scientific research has confirmed that tuocha tea significantly protects the stomach and aids digestion. Regular consumption can also help lower blood lipids, reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, and enhance immunity. Additionally, it has anti-aging and anti-depressant effects, contributing to overall health and well-being.

 

2.     If I’m taking medicines, can I still drink Tuocha tea?

The way tea interacts with medications mainly depends on the chemical reactions between the compounds in the tea and those in the drugs. The primary factors that may influence drug absorption are tannins and caffeine. Tannins can bind to certain metal ions, which could potentially affect how medications are absorbed, while caffeine may have an impact on the central nervous system. However, Tuocha tea has lower levels of tannins, and its fermentation process reduces the activity of these tannins, minimizing any effect on drug absorption.

In general, moderate consumption of Tuocha tea doesn’t significantly impact the effectiveness of medications. "Moderate" varies by individual, but it’s typically advised to limit tea intake to no more than two to three cups per day. This ensures that the components of the tea do not reach levels that could interfere with drug metabolism. The timing of tea consumption is also essential—avoiding drinking tea at least one hour before and after taking medication is recommended to minimize potential interactions. While Tuocha tea usually doesn’t affect medication effectiveness, individual responses can vary. Everyone’s body reacts differently to both tea and medications, so it’s wise to consult with a doctor or pharmacist before starting a new medication or altering your diet to ensure safety.

 

3.     How many cups of Tuocha tea are recommended to drink to reach maximum health benefits vs. drinking as a daily pleasure?

 

In 1978, Professor Emile Karobi from the Saint-Antoine Medical School in Paris conducted clinical trials that demonstrated Tuocha tea's effectiveness in reducing lipids and cholesterol levels in the body, with no side effects from long-term consumption. The result was that 30 grams of tuocha tea (Dry tea weight) is recommended daily. (*This suggestion is for hyperlipidemia only)

Research indicates that drinking 8 grams of Tuocha tea daily is beneficial, and consistency is key. Long-term tea consumption of 6 to 7 days a week lowers systolic blood pressure by 5.76 mmHg. Additionally, studies suggest that drinking three cups of fermented tea daily （2g/per cup）can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and diabetes by 8.16% and 12.77%, respectively.

For individuals without specific health issues, consuming 1 to 2 cups of tuocha tea daily can still provide various health benefits, making it a great addition to a balanced diet.

 

4.     Should I drink Tuocha tea as any other black tea? Add in milk or sugar?

No, you don't need to drink Tuocha tea like other black teas. Here are a few reasons why it's best enjoyed plain:

Flavor: Tuocha tea has a rich, earthy flavor and aged aroma that can be masked by milk or sugar, preventing you from fully appreciating its unique taste.

Mild in nature: Due to its fermentation process, the tea becomes smooth and mild, reducing astringency and irritation of the stomach by the contents (EGCG). This makes it enjoyable without adding milk and sugar.

Health Benefits: Drinking plain Tuocha tea allows you to maximize its health benefits, such as aiding digestion and lowering cholesterol, without the drawbacks of sugar or milk.

While you can add milk or sugar, Tuocha tea is best enjoyed plain to appreciate its natural flavors and benefits.

 

5.     Is Tuocha tea made from tea leaves? Is it natural? 

The Tuocha tea is made from the leaves of the Yunnan large-leaved tea plant (Camellia sinensis var. Assamica), and the process involves picking, wilting, killing, rolling, fermenting, pressing, and aging for at least 3 years (*Zouji Tuocha has strictly followed this tradition). These processes ensure that the natural components of the tea leaves are preserved while imparting Tuocha tea with its unique flavour and aroma. Since no artificial ingredients or chemicals are added during production, Tuocha tea is truly a natural beverage, making it suitable for those who prioritize health and a natural diet.

 

6.     Is Tuocha tea a herbal tea?

NO, Tuocha tea is the real tea.

"tea" is commonly used as a general term for drinks made from plants, but it refers explicitly to beverages made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. However, in a broader, colloquial sense, "tea" can sometimes refer to any kind of herbal or plant-based infusion, even if it’s not made from true tea leaves. This is partly because the process of steeping leaves or other plant materials in hot water is similar, regardless of the plant used.

 Tuocha Tea -true tea from camellia sinensis

Tuocha is made from the fresh leaves of the tea plant (Camellia sinensis), just like black tea or green tea. What makes Tuocha unique is that it exclusively uses leaves from the Yunnan large-leaf variety of tea plants.

 

7.     Is Tuocha tea safe during pregnancy?

Tuocha tea is generally considered safe for most people, including pregnant women when consumed in moderation.

Here’s why:

1. Non-absorbable caffeine Content

The caffeine content in Tuocha tea can vary, but it is typically lower than in green tea. Additionally, the oxidized tea polyphenols (OTPs) in Tuocha can encapsulate caffeine, reducing its absorption by the body. This may help lower the potential stimulating effects of caffeine.

2. Lowered Level of Tannins

During the fermentation process, the tannins in Tuocha are broken down by microorganisms and transformed into other substances, which can result in a lower concentration of tannins. This reduction can help minimize the effects of tannins on iron absorption.

3. Beneficial Probiotics

Tuocha contains probiotics that promote healthy digestion and support a balanced gut microbiome. These beneficial microorganisms can aid in digestion, which can be particularly useful during pregnancy, as digestive issues are common.

Drinking a cup of Tuocha tea daily is usually safe for pregnant women, but be careful not to brew it too strongly. However, if you are very sensitive to caffeine, it is not recommended to drink. Also be careful not to drink any Tuocha tea mixed with flowers and herbs during pregnancy. 

Of course, we still recommend consulting your health care provider to determine what is safest for you and your baby.

 

8. Has Tuocha tea done any clinical studies?

 Yes, Tuocha tea has undergone clinical research, and studies are ongoing. In 1978, Professor Emile Karobi from the Saint-Antoine Medical School in Paris demonstrated through clinical trials that Tuocha tea effectively reduces lipids and cholesterol levels, with no side effects from long-term consumption. Additionally, Professor Bernard Jacotot from Henri Mondor Hospital in Paris conducted a study with 20 patients suffering from hyperlipidemia, finding that after drinking three bowls of Tuocha tea daily for one month, the patient's blood lipid levels decreased by 22%.

Furthermore, research from the First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University indicated that Yunnan Tuocha tea has effects on lowering serum cholesterol comparable to traditional medications. In 2003, a study by the Beijing Likang Green Medicine Biotechnology Research Institute found that Tuocha tea contains statin-like substances, with a concentration of 61.8 mg/kg of lovastatin, which increases with the aging of the tea. These substances can competitively inhibit cholesterol biosynthesis, regulate low-density lipoprotein (LDL) activity, and promote a decrease in plasma LDL-C levels. This makes Tuocha tea one of the most effective lipid-lowering agents, capable of preventing strokes and treating osteoporosis.

Other studies have shown that Tuocha tea significantly impacts cholesterol levels in blood lipids. Two critical studies indicate that Tuocha tea's effectiveness in lowering cholesterol levels is comparable to mainstream cholesterol medications. In a study conducted by Professor Bernard Jacotot at Henri Mondor Hospital in Créteil, France, 20 patients with high cholesterol experienced a 22% reduction in cholesterol levels after 20 days of Tuocha tea treatment. Another study from Kunming Medical University directly compared the effects of Tuocha tea with modern medications, revealing that both groups of patients experienced significant reductions in cholesterol levels, with the Tuocha tea group showing results similar to those of the medication group.

 

9. Does Tuocha tea contains caffeine, if yes, why doesn’t it affect sleep？

 

Caffeine content In each (mg/g)
Type of tea	caffeine content (mg/g)
Tuocha Tea	19.83
Green tea	26.8
Black tea	21.6
Oolong tea	7.44
Jasmine tea	29.6
Coffee	19.9

 

 

Although Tuocha tea has a higher caffeine content than other teas, it rarely causes the anxiety or insomnia often associated with caffeinated beverages. This is because the fermentation process of Tuocha tea produces oxidation polyphenols (OTP), which can encapsulate caffeine, forming complexed caffeine that is not absorbed by the body. As a result, it does not produce the physiological effects typically associated with caffeine. This makes it comparable to non-caffeinated drinks and provides a calming experience that is not affected by the usual side effects of caffeine.

 

Caffeine content In each (mg/g)
Type of tea	caffeine content (mg/g)
Tuocha Tea	19.83
Green tea	26.8
Black tea	21.6
Oolong tea	7.44
Jasmine tea	29.6
Coffee	19.9

 

10. Can I drink Tuocha tea in cold?

Yes, Tuocha tea can be cold brewed, and this preparation method can highlight its unique flavours. Cold brewing Tuocha tea not only preserves its rich taste and distinct aged aroma developed through fermentation and aging but also results in a refreshing and sweet tea infusion. Due to the tightly compressed and post-fermented nature of Tuocha tea, it effectively releases its fragrance and flavour during the long-time cold brewing process, making it suitable for extended steeping.

The method of cold-brewing Tuocha tea is simple. First, prepare a large-capacity glass bottle or teapot, pry out 5-8 grams of tea, and brew it with hot water. After boiling, add the tea leaves to cold water, soak for 8-12 hours, remove and strain, and serve. This method is convenient for storage and provides tea lovers with a refreshing tea-drinking experience anytime.

Additionally, after brewing, you can store the cold-brewed Tuocha tea in the refrigerator for up to 10 hours, ensuring you have a calm and delightful beverage ready to enjoy whenever you like.