Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid — GABA — is a type of protein precursor that the brain naturally produces that affects various functions and general health of the nervous system. It also exists in minute amount naturally in processed tealeaves. There are other molecules in the leaves with similar nature, such as L-theanine.
What scientists found out about GABA
Scientists have found that GABA could be of health supplement nature — “relieving anxiety, improving mood, reducing symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and treating attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is also used for promoting lean muscle growth, burning fat, stabilising blood pressure, and relieving pain.” ( from WebMD.com )
However, scientists have not yet established any effective dosage nor definitive pharmaceutical application. This is not unlike many other supplements.
Most GABA supplements available commercially are synthetic.
Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid in tea is created when the leaves are oxidised in the absence of oxygen. A big stainless steel barrel with air-tight capability is used. When the heavy door is closed, air is pumped out to create that proper processing environment for producing GABA oolong. Very heavy material is used for the construction to make sure the differece in atmospheric pressure would not destroy the barrel itself.
GABA in Tea Hong’s GABA Orange
Scientists in Japan discovered in the 1980’s that in conditions when nitrogen replaces oxygen in the environment where tea is processed, the amount of GABA increases dramatically, while at the same time the amount and nature of catechins and L-theanine do not change. Catechins and L-theanine are other salutary substances in tea that you want.
Tea producers from Taiwan picked up and developed the technique to make such tea available for health conscious consumers. Our own tea master furthers the technique to make it good tasting.
Tea Hong’s GABA Orange is unique in its fine taste and at the same time the specially high contents of the beneficial molecules. GABA from our tea is not only natural, but also comes with many other good things in a high-grade oolong.
Two tea moths caught in a trap in our organic GABA oolong farmer’s garden. Nantau, Taiwan
