Iron Goddess of Mercy Oolong Tea

Iron Goddess of Mercy Oolong Tea (also called Ti Kuan Yin Iron Goddess of Mercy Oolong Tea or simply Tieguanyin) is a type of Chinese semi-oxidised Tea.

Cultivated and produced in Anxi County, Fujian Province, it consists of dark leaves that, when brewed, boast a mellow flavour and floral undertones. Be sure to buy it at The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company.  

Iron Goddess of Mercy Story

This Oolong Tea takes its name from the renowned Bodhisattva known as Guanyin, who in Buddhist tradition is the Goddess of Mercy. There are two fascinating legends associated with the infusion.

The first tale involves a poverty-stricken farmer called Wei. While strolling to the fields where he worked each day, the man happened upon a dilapidated temple devoted to Guanyin. 

Wei, being too poor to fix the building’s state, decided to clean it and light a candle for the Goddess instead. His dutifulness didn’t go unnoticed. One night, Guanyin appeared to the humble farmer, whereby she instructed him to explore the cave hidden behind the temple.

There, Wei found a Tea plant, which he subsequently planted in his field. It would become the Tea you’re about to indulge in here.

The other tale concerns a scholar called Wang, who discovered the Camellia sinensis (Tea) plant beneath the Guanyin rock in Xiping by pure accident. Wang then brought the plant home, cared for it, and finally gifted it to the Qianlong Emperor.

Such was the emperor’s love for the Tea that he inquired about its origin. When he heard that it came from the Guanyin rock, he dubbed it Guanyin Tea. 

Caffeine Content Level

Despite their questionable appeal, these two stories are based on myths. What remains an irrefutable fact is the presence of caffeine in our Iron Goddess of Mercy Oolong Tea.

Since the Tea leaves are semi-oxidised, they contain a moderate amount of caffeine at around 35-37-mg per serving. Consider it, in other words, a gentle start to the morning when you need an extra energy boost. 

Iron Goddess of Mercy Brewing Instructions

1. Purchase a Tea Filter or Infuser and fill it with Tea.
2. Place the item in a cup or mug of your choice.
3. Boil fresh water and let it cool to temperatures between 70°C and 90°C.
4. Fill the cup with water and allow it to steep for 1-3 minutes. 

How to Serve: Consider a slice of lemon or a dollop of honey. Alternatively, serve without additions. 

Tasting Notes: Imparts mellow characteristics with bold floral notes and a refreshing finish. 

Iron Goddess of Mercy Benefits

Iron Goddess of Mercy’s health benefits are the product of numerous vitamins, minerals and other antioxidants. Working on a molecular level, the chemical compounds can combat free radicals in the body, thereby slowing oxidative stress and reducing the risk of developing several chronic conditions.

Studies have likewise indicated that it promotes weight loss and boosts the immune system. Find out more about Oolong Tea Benefits.