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Origins
There are many different legends all over Asia to explain the origins of Dragon Well. According one legend in China, there was a great drought on Lion’s Peak in 250 AD that threatened crops of tea. A monk went to a dragon residing in a nearby spring to pray for rain. The dragon granted the monk’s wish and the spring never dried out, hence the name Dragon Well. Today, Dragon Well is grown on the high peaks of the Tieh Mu mountains near Hangzhou in Zhejiang province.
Taste/Texture
The Dragon Well has four distinct characteristics: 1. flat leaves, 2. jade green color, 3. soft and mellow flavor, 4. sweet, fresh aroma. The mellow flavor of the Dragon Well keeps it from turning bitter like black tea even if it’s over-steeped. During the production process, the Dragon Well is dried under a wood-fired wok; this kills enzyme activity and removes the green, grassy taste. The Chinese believes Dragon Well has a cooling effect so it’s even more popular during the spring and summer seasons.
Health Benefits
All tea comes from the same plant named Camellia sinensis. The method of production creates the different types of tea. Dragon Well and other green tea are produced in such a way that it contains the highest content of antioxidant compounds. Antioxidants are proven to help in the fight against certain cancers, lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure, reduce the likely-hood of getting the flu and other infections, and help reduce the signs of aging. There’s also enough fluoride found in green tea to aid against plaque and other oral bacteria.
With Dragon Well’s mellow sweet taste and long list of health benefits, it’s no wonder that the Chinese has been drinking this tea for centuries. The next time you’re looking for a refreshing cup of tea, we welcome you to try the wonderful Dragon Well.
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