Based on different manufacturing processes, Pu'er tea is divided into raw and ripe varieties. Ripe tea undergoes an additional pile-Fermentation process compared to raw tea. Due to these differences in production methods, the nature of raw and ripe teas varies significantly. Raw tea has a relatively cool nature, while ripe tea is warmer.
Traditional Chinese medicine categorizes human constitutions as: balanced, yin-deficient, yang-deficient, qi-deficient, damp-heat, phlegm-dampness, and qi-stagnation. We can choose the right Pu'er tea according to our constitution.
How to Choose the Right Pu'er Tea for Yourself
1. Balanced Constitution
This is a healthy constitution, suitable for both ripe and raw teas. You can choose different teas based on seasonal changes. In summer, you can Drink raw tea for its cooling effects; in winter, enjoy ripe tea to warm your stomach and body.
2. Yin-Deficient Constitution
People with this constitution tend to have excessive internal heat, difficulty sleeping, and hot, sweaty palms and soles, along with rough and dry skin. This is due to an imbalance between yin and yang, with yang being stronger than yin. Those with this constitution can drink raw tea after meals during the day and consume moderate amounts of ripe tea at night.
3. Yang-Deficient Constitution
This is characterized by a fear of cold, cold hands and feet, a quiet disposition, and low spirits. For such individuals, regular exercise is recommended to boost their internal yang. They should drink Pu'er ripe tea aged 5 to 8 years or raw tea over 10 years old.
4. Qi-Deficient Constitution
This is marked by general weakness, laziness, sweating with minimal activity, and easy fatigue. People with this constitution should drink ripe Pu'er tea, where the theabrownin can help regulate metabolic balance and improve immunity.
5. Damp-Heat Constitution
This is characterized by frequent heat surges, swollen gums, and irritability. Individuals with this constitution should drink raw tea to clear heat and reduce fire. Since raw tea is quite stimulating, it can be consumed after meals or combined with chrysanthemum in ripe tea.
6. Phlegm-Dampness Constitution
This is marked by accumulation of phlegm-dampness, obesity, a soft and full abdomen, greasy hair, and a tendency towards high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar. These individuals are well-suited to drinking Tangerine Pu'er tea. The dried tangerine Peel helps strengthen the spleen and stomach, reduces dampness, and the ripe tea can help manage the three highs (blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar).
7. Qi-Stagnation Constitution
This is characterized by stagnated qi flow, worry, and inability to express emotions freely. Such individuals should engage in active exercise, adjust their moods, maintain a happy state of mind, and drink ripe Pu'er tea over 10 years old or tangerine Pu'er to nurture their bodies and minds through tea drinking.
A cup of Pu'er tea that suits your constitution not only improves your physical health but also cultivates your mind and lifts your spirits, maximizing the value of tea drinking.