Tea of Assam: History, Varieties, and Health Benefits
Assam tea is a robust and flavorful black tea made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis var. assamica plant, native to the Assam region of India. Known for its strong, malty flavor and bright color, Assam tea is produced through a traditional process of withering, rolling, fermenting, and drying the tea leaves. It is often used as a base for breakfast teas, such as English Breakfast and Irish Breakfast blends. Assam’s unique climate, with heavy rainfall and high humidity, contributes to the rich, bold character of the tea, making it a popular choice worldwide. To know what Assam tea is, its processing, types, history, and benefits, read the following blog.
History of Assam Tea
The story of Assam tea begins in 1823 with Robert Bruce, a Scottish adventurer who, during his mission, found wild tea plants in Rangpur. He was introduced to these plants by Maniram Dewan and the local Singpho chief, Bessa Gam. The chief demonstrated how the Singpho tribe brewed tea from the leaves of the bush. Bruce then arranged to collect samples of the leaves and seeds for scientific study. Unfortunately, he passed away a few years later, before the plant could be formally classified and recognized as Assam tea.
In the early 1830s, to examine these plants, Robert Bruce’s brother sent some samples to a botanical garden in Calcutta (present Kolkata). After a thorough examination, this plant was officially classified as a tea variant and named Camellia sinensis var. Assamica.
It was the Assam Tea Company that first cultivated and produced this tea in 1839. The business grew steadily, and by 1862, it included over 160 tea gardens. These were owned by five public companies, along with 57 private enterprises, marking the rapid expansion of the Assam tea industry.
Climatic Conditions for Assam Tea
The climatic conditions of Assam play a crucial role in producing its distinctive, robust tea. Assam is located in northeastern India, a region characterized by a tropical monsoon climate. The tea-growing areas experience high temperatures, heavy rainfall, and high humidity, all of which contribute to the unique flavor profile of Assam tea.
The summers in Assam are moderately hot, with temperatures reaching between 25–38°C. This heat accelerates the growth of the tea plants, resulting in larger leaves that contribute to the tea’s bold and malty flavor. Additionally, there are parts of Assam which receive rainfall in abundance with an annual average ranging between 1325.1 and 2251.4 mm. This ample moisture, combined with well-drained soil, creates the perfect environment for tea cultivation.
The region’s low elevation, with most plantations lying at or near sea level, also impacts the flavor of the tea. Unlike high-altitude teas, Assam tea develops a stronger, fuller-bodied taste. The combination of warm, humid days and cool nights during the growing season helps create a balanced, rich brew.
These ideal growing conditions in Assam contribute to the tea’s distinctive malty flavor, making it highly sought after worldwide.
Assam Tea Production
The Assam Tea Company dominated the production and cultivation of Assam tea in India between 1840 and 1860. Local Kacharis, located in the districts of Upper Assam contributed to the workforce. With the company’s success, the colonial policies had undergone changes as it offered land to tea planters.
The Assam tea industry is one of the most dynamic tea-producing regions globally. Tea estates in Assam collectively yield nearly 507 million kilograms of tea annually, making it the largest tea-growing region in the world. Assam’s unique terroir is defined by its low altitude, fertile loamy soil, abundant rainfall, and tropical climate, all of which enable the region to produce some of the finest loose-leaf orthodox teas.
Manufacturing Process of Assam Tea
The manufacturing process of Assam tea follows traditional methods to produce its distinctively bold and malty flavor. The process generally includes five key steps: plucking, withering, rolling, oxidation (or fermentation), and drying.
Plucking: The process begins with the careful hand-plucking of the tea leaves, typically picking only the top two leaves and a bud from the plant. This ensures the best quality and flavor in the final product.
Withering: After plucking, the tea leaves are spread out on large trays or racks and allowed to wither. This step reduces the moisture content of the leaves and makes them pliable for the next stages. The withering process can take several hours and is crucial for developing the tea’s unique flavor.
Rolling: Once the leaves are properly withered, they are rolled, either by hand or using mechanical rollers. This process breaks the cell walls of the leaves, releasing essential oils and enzymes that enhance flavor and aroma.
Oxidation (Fermentation): The rolled leaves are then spread out and exposed to oxygen for oxidation. The leaves gradually darken during this process, which determines the tea’s color, flavor, and strength. Assam tea typically undergoes full oxidation, resulting in a robust and rich taste.
Drying: After oxidation, the leaves are dried to stop the oxidation process and lock in the flavors. This is typically done in large drying machines with controlled temperatures.
Sorting and Packaging: Finally, the dried tea leaves are sorted according to size and quality, then packaged for sale. Assam tea is often sold as loose-leaf tea or processed into tea bags, with the best-quality leaves used for premium loose-leaf tea.
This method preserves the unique characteristics of Assam tea, creating a brew that is malty, full-bodied, and rich in flavor.
Types of Assam Tea
Assam tea is available in several varieties, each offering distinct flavors and characteristics. The main types of Assam tea include:
Assam Black Tea: This is the most common and popular type of Assam tea. It is known for its rich, malty flavor, bold strength, and bright amber color. Assam black tea is often used as a base for breakfast blends like English Breakfast and Irish Breakfast.
Assam Green Tea: Unlike black tea, Assam green tea is not fully oxidized, resulting in a more delicate flavor. It has a fresh, grassy taste with hints of nuttiness. The leaves retain their green color, and the tea offers a lighter brew with a milder aroma.
Assam White Tea: A rare and premium variety, Assam white tea is made from young, tender leaves and buds. It undergoes minimal processing, resulting in a delicate, sweet flavor with floral undertones. It is prized for its subtle taste and health benefits.
Assam Orthodox Tea: This variety refers to tea made using the traditional method of hand-rolling the leaves. Assam orthodox teas are known for their high quality and nuanced flavor, with a more complex and aromatic profile compared to the stronger Assam CTC teas.
Assam CTC Tea: CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl) is a method of processing tea leaves into small, pellet-like shapes. Assam CTC tea is strong, brisk, and ideal for making masala chai. It brews quickly and has a bold, astringent flavor.
Benefits of Having Assam Tea
There are a myriad of benefits that Assam tea offers. These are as follows:
1. Rich in Antioxidants
Assam tea is packed with powerful antioxidants, primarily polyphenols like flavonoids and catechins, which help to neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress, leading to chronic illnesses like heart disease and cancer. By including Assam tea in your diet, you provide your body with a natural defense system against cellular damage. The antioxidant properties of Assam tea can help slow down the aging process, improve skin health, and reduce inflammation.
2. Boosts Heart Health
Drinking Assam tea may have a positive impact on heart health. The tea contains bioactive compounds like theaflavins and thearubigins, which help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and promote good cholesterol (HDL). These compounds can improve overall cardiovascular function and reduce the risk of developing heart-related conditions such as hypertension and atherosclerosis. Regular consumption of Assam tea has also been linked to better blood circulation, helping to maintain healthy blood pressure and reducing the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes.
3. Enhances Mental Alertness and Cognitive Function
Assam tea contains moderate amounts of caffeine, which is known for its stimulating effects on the brain. Drinking Assam tea can help improve mental alertness, focus, and concentration, making it an excellent choice for morning or mid-afternoon breaks. Unlike the jittery feeling caused by coffee, Assam tea provides a smoother, more sustained release of energy. Additionally, it contains the amino acid L-theanine, which works synergistically with caffeine to promote relaxation without drowsiness. This unique combination helps to enhance cognitive performance, improve mood, and even reduce the risk of cognitive decline in older adults.
4. Supports Digestive Health
If you suffer from digestive issues such as indigestion, bloating, or constipation, Assam tea may provide some relief. The tannins found in Assam tea have mild astringent properties that can help soothe the digestive system. These tannins work to reduce inflammation in the gut and improve the absorption of nutrients. Moreover, Assam tea has been shown to promote the growth of good bacteria in the gut, contributing to better gut health and reducing the likelihood of gastrointestinal disorders. Sipping on a warm cup of Assam tea after a meal can aid digestion and alleviate discomfort.
5. Weight Management
For those looking to manage their weight, Assam tea can be a helpful addition to a balanced diet and exercise regimen. The tea’s caffeine content helps boost metabolism, enabling the body to burn calories more efficiently. Additionally, Assam tea may help regulate blood sugar levels and curb appetite, making it easier to avoid unhealthy snacking or overeating. Drinking Assam tea regularly can also help improve fat oxidation, which is the body’s process of breaking down fat for energy. Combined with its low-calorie nature, Assam tea can be an excellent tool for supporting weight loss and maintaining a healthy weight.
6. Improves Immune System Function
Assam tea is rich in various compounds that help support a healthy immune system. The antioxidants present in Assam tea can strengthen the body’s natural defenses against pathogens, helping to ward off infections, colds, and flu. The tea’s antimicrobial properties can also protect against harmful bacteria and viruses. Additionally, Assam tea is a good source of certain vitamins and minerals, such as potassium and manganese, which play a role in maintaining a healthy immune response. By incorporating Assam tea into your daily routine, you can help your body stay resilient against common illnesses and enjoy overall better health.
7. Reduces Stress and Promotes Relaxation
In today’s fast-paced world, managing stress is essential for overall well-being, and Assam tea can play a role in promoting relaxation. The presence of L-theanine in Assam tea helps reduce the production of cortisol, the hormone responsible for stress, while promoting the production of serotonin, the hormone that boosts mood. This effect can help alleviate feelings of anxiety and enhance overall emotional balance. While Assam tea contains caffeine, which is often associated with stimulating effects, its unique chemical composition promotes relaxation without causing drowsiness. Drinking Assam tea can be a comforting ritual that helps you unwind and feel more centered.
Best Assam Tea Estate in India
Halmari Tea is widely regarded as one of the finest tea estates in Assam’s Dibrugarh region, known for producing premium-quality Assam tea. Established over a century ago, the estate has consistently delivered top-tier tea, recognized for its exceptional flavor, strength, and aroma. The unique climate and soil conditions of the Dibrugarh region, combined with Halmari’s commitment to traditional tea-growing methods, make their tea highly sought after globally.
What sets Halmari Tea apart is its meticulous attention to quality at every stage of the production process. The estate is known for its Orthodox and CTC teas, which are prized for their bright color, malty taste, and smooth texture. Halmari’s teas have won numerous awards and continue to dominate auctions, reflecting their superior quality.
The estate’s focus on innovation, sustainability, and ethical practices further strengthens its reputation. It blends modern techniques with century-old craftsmanship, ensuring that every cup of Halmari tea provides a rich, authentic experience. Whether enjoyed by connoisseurs or casual tea drinkers, Halmari Tea remains the gold standard for the best Assam tea in India.
Conclusion
Assam tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis var. assamica plant, a variety indigenous to the Assam region in northeastern India. The tea leaves are hand-plucked and processed to create different types, including black, green, and white teas. If you want to savor the best Assam tea in the region and in the entire India, get your choice of Assam tea from Halmari Tea.
