Chinese tea, 10-year-aged mini Pu-erh (Shu) TUO-CHA – “Bird’s Nest”, 23 g, 4 pcs.

Chinese Mini Pu-erh Tea – "Bird's Nest" (Tuo-Cha), Category A. Aged 10 years, 23g, 4 pieces.

This exceptional "Tuo-Cha" Pu-erh tea—translated from Chinese as "Bird's Nest" or "Swallow's Nest"—gets its name from the way the tea is pressed into small shapes resembling a bird's or swallow's nest. Each "Tuo-Cha" piece is wrapped in special food-grade foil. One piece is perfectly sized for a small Pu-erh teapot (as shown in the image)—approximately 0.5 liters—serving one or two people. "Tuo-Cha" Pu-erh is popular not only for its unique shape but also for the convenience it offers in tea preparation.

Category A tea is highly prized and valuable, as it contains a large number of golden-colored buds. Only the smaller, upper leaves from the branches are used. This results in a highly aromatic tea with a rich, refined flavor and a long-lasting aftertaste.

Tea buds (often called "tips") are a valuable part of the *Camellia sinensis* tea plant. They contain the amino acid L-theanine, which helps support normal mental function. Teas that include buds also tend to have a lower caffeine content.

Pu-erh is unique in that it undergoes a double fermentation process, followed by a period of natural aging. Its value increases with the aging period (in years).

Compressed Pu-erh tea requires a special knife (or awl) to separate the tea leaves without breaking them. Broken leaves tend to make the tea taste more bitter. The need for compressed Pu-erh tea arose because travel was very expensive in ancient China; compressed Pu-erh takes up less space, making it more convenient to transport and store.

Pu-erh tea possesses unique properties. To experience its effects, one should consume it once a day for at least three months, while also maintaining a proper diet and engaging in physical activity. In China, Pu-erh is often referred to as a "fat killer." The substances contained in the tea help to:

1) Stimulate the secretion of enzymes in the stomach that act upon consumed food. For this reason, it is recommended to drink Pu-erh tea half an hour after a meal. Consuming it before a meal can create an empty sensation in the stomach, which may lead to overeating;

2) Activate processes that break down layers of subcutaneous fat—specifically those the body has not yet managed to eliminate on its own. When high-calorie food is consumed, a thin layer of "white fat" forms under the skin. During physical activity, the body undergoes processes that "burn" or break down this layer of white fat. The substances contained in the tea help activate this process during physical activity;

3) It helps normalize gastrointestinal function and facilitates the elimination of food that is difficult to digest. This is particularly useful if you experience a heavy sensation in your stomach after a large meal—a common occurrence during major holidays;

4) It serves a preventive function by helping to reduce levels of "bad" cholesterol in the body;

5) It helps restore vitality and energy following strenuous physical activity or sports;

6) It can improve how you feel when suffering from a hangover;

If you enjoy Pu-erh tea in the company of friends, you will likely find that your mood lifts and conversation flows more easily within an hour.

The benefits listed above will be noticeable provided that the Pu-erh tea interacts effectively with your body. Since every individual is different, the effects may vary.

The tea features a classic aroma of earth and damp peat, accented by pleasant notes of forest incense and a subtle hint of chocolate in the aftertaste.

Packaged in brown paper with a transparent window.

A great gift idea!

Ingredients: Chinese pressed Pu-erh tea containing buds (tea leaves), Category A.

Preparation: Pour approximately 150 ml of boiling water over one *Tuo-Cha* (nest-shaped) Pu-erh tea portion. The first infusion—lasting 5 seconds—is intended to rinse the tea leaves and should be discarded! You can then consume the second infusion; steep for approximately 1–1.5 minutes. For each subsequent infusion, increase the steeping time by 1 minute. Suitable for 3–4 infusions.

Warning: Store in a dark, cool, and dry place.

Best before: see packaging.

Country of origin: China, Yunnan Province.

Net weight: 23 g