Yes, yes, and yes again!
More and more people report an almost psychedelic or intoxicating experience when drinking certain types of tea. This has especially been the case at several of our tea courses and particularly when tea enthusiasts gather for tastings in Aarhus. This is a well-known phenomenon in China called “Cha Zui” (茶醉), which means being drunk on tea.
It is a unique feeling of dizzying euphoria, lightness, and happiness, balanced by a sense of meditative focus, peace, and well-being. This feeling arises when you drink large amounts of high-quality tea—especially very raw (sheng), green, or other unoxidized teas.
The three main reasons for the psychoactive effects of tea are:
- Caffeine – a central nervous system stimulant of the methylxanthine class. It is the world’s most widely consumed psychoactive substance. Other methylxanthines in tea are theophylline and theobromine.
- L-theanine – a psychoactive amino acid that occurs only in tea and a single species of mushroom. L-theanine can alter brain chemistry by producing GABA, dopamine, and serotonin, which are neurotransmitters. By stimulating alpha waves, L-theanine can induce a meditative-alert state of mind, which has the ability to change our cognitive state and perception. It is the perfect complement to caffeine, as it mitigates negative side effects such as insomnia, restlessness, and anxiety. Teas that are shaded have a very high content of L-theanine, such as matcha and gyokuro.
- Catechins – powerful antioxidants that are abundant in high-quality teas. Specific catechins bind to CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors in the brain and can induce a feeling of euphoria. These compounds are primarily found in the buds and the first spring shoots of the tea. Catechins are most concentrated in white, yellow, green, and sheng Puerh teas, which have not undergone oxidation processes.
Tea experts believe that the minerals in tea play a significant role in the stimulating effects of the tea plant. The age of the tea plant plays an important role in its mineral absorption. The older the tea plant, the deeper the root system, which finds and absorbs traces of minerals between cracks in the rocks.
Rock Oolong (Yan Cha) tea from the Wuyi Mountains in China is known for its complex minerality. These bushes grow on steep cliff faces and are difficult to harvest. Aged Rock Oolong has a deep and complex flavor profile and can give a feeling of being high.
Tea Master Li Dong
Tea Master Li Dong picks from Gushu tea trees.
Sheng Puerh from old tea trees is referred to as “Gushu” (古树). This designation typically refers to trees that are 300 to 500 years old or even older. Gushu trees have wide and deep roots that can absorb traces of minerals, giving the tea its unique flavor. These teas are sought after and admired for their stimulating effects on the body and brain.
Yellow tea is the rarest of the six tea categories. If you have ever tried genuine yellow tea, you have likely experienced a calm and contemplative state that takes over your entire body. It is not surprising that yellow tea is used in palliative care or by individuals suffering from acute depression. This tea simply makes the world a better place.
The special processing of yellow tea is called “Men Huan” (闷黄), which means to seal yellow. During the yellowing process, the content of amino acids intensifies. Catechins are subjected to a light fermentation, making them easier to absorb for people with stomach or digestive issues. This step gives the tea its characteristic yellow color and creamy mouthfeel.
When white tea is aged, something magical happens, especially Bai Mu Dan, which retains a high content of L-theanine and most catechins. If you drink it very concentrated, you will feel intoxicated. The magic occurs due to the aging process, which enhances the psychoactive effects of the tea. The effect can make you feel energetic, giggly, and buoyant, but also creative, reflective, and philosophical. If you want to experience this effect, be sure to brew your tea strong in small teapots. Drink it from small cups or shot glasses as the Chinese or Japanese do. Preferably, this tea should be brewed according to Gong Fu principles.
By simply eating something that contains fat, you can quickly return to a normal state. Therefore, it’s always good to have a small bowl of nuts or cookies on hand, or carry a piece of chocolate in your bag.
The euphoric properties of these teas affect our physical well-being without us having to worry about an upper limit. There are not many pleasures that can affect us so sensorily, spiritually, and emotionally, and that can be enjoyed with a clear conscience.
If you would like to learn more about tea, you can sign up for Simply Tea’s tea courses here.