The eighth day of the twelfth lunar month is known as Laba Festival in China.
As the saying goes, “Little children, don't be greedy; once Laba has passed, Chinese New Year will soon follow.” By this time, all agricultural work has been completed, and with the approach of the Spring Festival, the customs of Laba take on many festive colors. Soaking garlic in vinegar, eating Laba porridge, and enjoying a fragrant cup of Tea are all part of these traditions. They not only help warm the body but also imbue the air with a strong sense of the upcoming New Year.
What teas are suitable for drinking during this cold month?
Black Tea (Red Tea)
In the depths of winter, black tea is an excellent choice. There are many varieties of black tea in China, the most famous being Qimen black tea. The number of black tea enthusiasts in China is growing, and the range of products available is becoming increasingly diverse. Black tea is mild in nature and particularly suitable for consumption during the winter months.
Aged White Tea
Aged white tea is very suitable for brewing during the winter. In accordance with the natural laws of dormancy, it focuses on preserving yin and protecting yang. Aged white tea has a mild nature and can nourish the body's yang energy, generate warmth, and soothe the stomach, enhancing the body's ability to withstand the cold. It also aids digestion and reduces greasiness. With a slight medicinal aroma, the tea liquor is gentle, full-bodied, and smooth, without bitterness or astringency. Therefore, brewing aged white tea after the onset of winter is a great choice.
Ripe Pu'er
Ripe Pu'er tea, having undergone a process of pile-fermentation, becomes mild and accommodating in nature. Adding chrysanthemum to it helps clear the liver and improve eyesight; adding aged tangerine Peel helps soothe the liver and nourish the lungs; adding milk enriches its nutritional content and makes it smoother.
According to “Bencao Gangmu Shiyi,” “Pu'er tea has a bitter taste and is potent in nature, capable of neutralizing the greasy and toxic effects of beef and mutton…it is bitter and astringent, helping to expel phlegm, regulate qi, and promote bowel movements.” Ripe Pu'er has a dark red liquor that is sweet and warm, capable of accumulating yang energy within the body, generating warmth and soothing the stomach. It can also strengthen the body and enhance one's adaptability to the cold climate, making it especially suitable for winter consumption.
Oolong Tea
As the saying goes, “Drink green tea in summer, black tea in winter, and oolong tea all year round.” Oolong tea is a semi-fermented tea that falls between green and black tea, with a dark green color, hence its other name, “qingcha” (green tea).
In terms of flavor, oolong tea combines the fresh fragrance of green tea with the natural floral aroma and the rich taste of black tea. It is neither too cool nor too hot, but rather moderately warm, which helps moisturize the skin, throat, and mouth while clearing internal heat, enabling the body to adapt to changes in the natural environment. During the winter when indoor air is often dry, people may experience dry mouths and cracked lips. Brewing a cup of oolong tea can alleviate these discomforts.
On Laba, a bowl of porridge and a cup of tea bring warmth and deep sentiments. Wishing everyone a happy Laba Festival, filled with joy and good health!