Black Tea

Black tea, known as “hong cha” (红茶) in Chinese, is a richly flavored tea with a warming nature and deep cultural roots. Unlike green tea, black tea is fully oxidized, resulting in its signature dark leaves, reddish infusion, and bold taste. Originating in China, black tea has become a global favorite, renowned for its robust flavor and energizing qualities.

What Is Black Tea?

Black tea is made from the Camellia sinensis plant, just like green and oolong teas. The difference lies in the processing: black tea leaves are allowed to fully oxidize, which gives them their darker color and richer aroma. This oxidation also increases the tea’s warming properties, making it ideal for colder weather or those with “cold” body constitutions according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

Famous Types of Chinese Black Tea

  • Keemun (Qimen Hongcha): From Anhui province, known for its floral aroma and wine-like notes.
  • Lapsang Souchong (Zhengshan Xiaozhong): A smoky tea from Fujian, traditionally dried over pinewood fires.
  • Dianhong (Yunnan Black): Offers a malty flavor with golden tips, perfect for daily drinking or gifting.
  • Jin Jun Mei: A premium, hand-picked tea from the Wuyi Mountains, famous for its smooth and sweet character.

Each type of black tea reflects its unique origin and craftsmanship.

Health Benefits

Black tea is more than just a flavorful beverage. It offers many health advantages:

  • Boosts energy and alertness thanks to natural caffeine
  • Improves heart health by supporting circulation and reducing bad cholesterol
  • Aids digestion after heavy or oily meals
  • Provides antioxidants such as theaflavins and thearubigins
  • Supports focus and mental clarity without overstimulation

Black Tea in TCM

In Traditional Chinese Medicine:

  • Nature: Warming
  • Taste: Bitter-sweet
  • Meridians affected: Heart and stomach
  • Recommended for: Cold constitutions, poor digestion, and fatigue
  • Avoid excessive intake: For people with internal heat or insomnia

Brewing Tips

To fully enjoy black tea:

  • Water temperature: 90–95°C (just below boiling)
  • Steeping time: 3–5 minutes
  • Teaware: Porcelain or clay teapots are ideal
  • Ratio: 1 teaspoon per 150ml water

Optional: Add a slice of dried orange peel or Chinese dates for a warm, spiced note.

Fun Facts

  • Lapsang Souchong is considered the world’s first black tea and was originally created to speed up drying in times of war.
  • In Chinese tea classification, "black tea" refers to what Westerners call "red tea" due to the color of its infusion.

Black tea is a bridge between energy and elegance, warmth and wellness. Whether you're enjoying a morning cup of Keemun or savoring a smoky Lapsang in the afternoon, each sip brings you closer to centuries of Chinese tradition and wisdom.