On a humid summer evening in Beijing, I once sat on a low wooden stool, cradling a small porcelain cup filled with pale, golden liquid. My host, an elderly tea merchant with a beard as white as steamed rice, leaned in and whispered, “This is not just tea… this is a conversation between flowers and leaves.”
That was my first true sip of jasmine green tea.
Since then, I’ve come to see it not just as a beverage, but as a gentle ritual. One that brings the lush scent of spring into any season, and the quiet elegance of Chinese gardens into your own kitchen.
The Story Behind Jasmine Green Tea
Legend says that during the Song Dynasty (960–1279), jasmine flowers were first introduced to China from Persia. At night, when the blooms opened and released their fragrance, tea makers would layer the flowers between fresh green tea leaves. By morning, the blossoms were removed, but their perfume had seeped into the tea, leaving behind an aroma so delicate it felt like poetry you could drink.
In many parts of Asia, jasmine tea is more than a drink. It’s served at weddings to symbolise eternal love, offered to guests as a gesture of respect, and poured during quiet moments of self-reflection. And yes, sometimes, it’s just enjoyed with a good plate of dumplings.
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Why Jasmine Green Tea Is A Cup Of Calm
Think of it as the tea equivalent of that friend who always smells good and never rushes you.
Aroma therapy in a cup – The scent alone can soften your shoulders after a long day.
Gentle caffeine boost – Enough to keep you awake, but not so much that you start reorganising your kitchen cupboards at 2 AM.
Packed with antioxidants – The green tea base is rich in catechins, which are basically little wellness ninjas.
How Jasmine Green Tea Is Made
The magic lies in the scenting process:
Harvest the green tea leaves – usually in spring, when they’re fresh and full of life.
Gather jasmine flowers – picked in the early afternoon, when they’re still closed.
Night-time scenting – as the night cools, flowers open and infuse their fragrance into the tea leaves.
Repeat the process – high-quality jasmine tea might be scented up to seven times for deeper aroma.
It’s slow work. But then again, good things rarely happen in a hurry.
Brewing Jasmine Green Tea At Home (Beginner-Friendly Guide)
If you’ve never brewed loose-leaf tea before, don’t worry. This is easier than learning how to poach an egg (and much less messy).
You’ll Need:
Loose-leaf jasmine green tea (or high-quality sachets)
Fresh, filtered water
A teapot or mug with an infuser
Steps:
Heat the water – Not boiling! Aim for about 80°C (176°F). Boiling water will scald the tea and make it taste bitter.
Measure the tea – About 1 teaspoon per cup. If you like it stronger, add more leaves, not more brewing time.
Steep gently – Pour the water over the tea leaves and let it sit for 2–3 minutes.
Inhale first – Take a moment to smell the tea before sipping. This is part of the joy.
Sip slowly – Jasmine tea is best when unhurried. Think of it as a short holiday for your senses.
Ways To Enjoy Jasmine Green Tea Beyond The Cup
Iced jasmine tea – Brew it double strength, pour over ice, and add a slice of lemon.
Jasmine milk tea – Mix brewed jasmine tea with warm milk and a touch of honey.
Tea-infused rice – Use cooled jasmine tea instead of water when cooking rice for a floral twist.
A Little Humour In Your Teacup
Jasmine tea drinkers tend to become aroma snobs. One minute you’re just enjoying a hot cup, the next you’re in the supermarket muttering, “This detergent’s floral notes are all wrong.” It’s a side effect. Wear it proudly.
FAQs About Jasmine Green Tea
Q1. Is jasmine green tea the same as pure jasmine tea?
No. Jasmine green tea is green tea scented with jasmine flowers. Pure jasmine tea (without green tea) is rare and has a much lighter flavour.
Q2. Does jasmine green tea have caffeine?
Yes, but less than black tea or coffee. It’s gentle enough for an afternoon sip without keeping most people up at night.
Q3. Can I add sugar or honey to jasmine green tea?
Yes, but go light. Too much sweetener can overpower the delicate floral notes.
Q4. Is jasmine green tea good for digestion?
Many people find it soothing after meals, thanks to the green tea base and calming aroma.
Keep it in an airtight container away from light, heat, and strong odours. That way, the aroma stays fresh.
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