In China and parts of Southeast Asia, people have consumed Pu-erh tea for centuries. In addition, it was a significant export product on the Tea-Horse Road. Even back in its homeland, the people of Yunnan did not dismiss the amazing benefits of Pu-erh tea.
Moreover, in Tibet, this tea was popular with monks for its amazing energizing qualities. While in China, people would always drink it after a meal. Especially an oily one, to aid digestion.
What Is Pu-erh Tea?
Pu-erh tea originated in Southwestern China's Yunnan Province over 2000 years ago.
In brief, there are two types of Pu-erh: Sheng Pu-erh (Raw Pu-erh) and Shou Pu-erh (Ripe Pu-erh). Shu and Sheng Pu-erh are usually made of Camellia sinensis var. assamica. After the fermentation and roasting process, farmers age pu-erh tea for many years. Consequently, this results in its bold, mellow flavor, as well as its iconic dark color.
Pu-erh Tea For Digestion
Naturally, when anything is fermented, a variety of microorganisms are born to aid our bodies. Hence, pu-erh is no exception. The microorganisms that live in our post-fermented friend Pu-erh help increase the healthy bacteria in our stomachs and intestines. In turn, benefiting our digestion.
Furthermore, it helps break down oily and fatty foods. It is no wonder that there is a tradition of serving Pu-erh at Dim Sum restaurants around Hong Kong and China. To balance all the delicious but greasy foods.
Pu-erh Tea In Traditional Chinese Medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Pu-erh's energetic properties depend on which type you're drinking.
Sheng (Raw) Pu-erh, especially young Sheng Pu-erh, is considered a cooling tea (yin), similar to green tea, helping to balance excess heat (yang) in the body – an imbalance often associated with inflammation.
Shou (Ripe) Pu-erh, by contrast, is considered warming (yang). Its fermentation process is believed to transform its energetic nature entirely, making it gentle and grounding rather than cooling, which is why it's the type most often recommended for the stomach, for those with a sensitive digestion, or for drinking later in the day.
Other Significant Pu-erh Tea Benefits
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Lowers Cholesterol.
As Pu-erh ages, it accumulates higher levels of a compound called Lovastatin. This is responsible for lowering bad cholesterol levels in the body while increasing good cholesterol levels.
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Cleanses.
The microorganisms that grow as a result of the wet fermentation process that Pu-erh goes through help to remove certain toxins from our blood.
Some people choose to drink Pu-erh as an aid for hangovers. The tea helps drive the toxins out of our bodies and gives us a clearer, more focused state of mind.
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Aids Weight Loss.
Those who come from Pu-erh drinking regions all know of Pu-erh tea's weight loss properties. Pu-erh contains compounds, including catechins, theabrownins, and lovastatin, that have been studied for their effects on fat metabolism and lipid levels. Pu-erh is a supportive part of a healthy routine, particularly after rich or fatty meals. However, it is not a weight-loss solution on its own.
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Assists With Sleep. Pu-erh contains GABA and L-theanine, compounds that have been studied for their calming effects on the nervous system and their potential to support better sleep. This is one reason Shu Pu-erh is often recommended in China for the evening hours, when many other teas would feel too stimulating.
That said, pu-erh still contains caffeine, and caffeine can counteract these calming effects if consumed too close to bedtime – so as with any caffeinated tea, pay attention to your own tolerance and timing.
