Wu yi tea is no different than wu long tea and both are in the oolong family; a complex, semi-fermented tea somewhere between green and black tea.

The name Wu Yi is a reference to the mountainous region in China where this characteristically dark rich tea is grown. Wu yi teas tend to be fully browned and very robust ? many tea lovers describe Wu yi teas as being almost coffee like rich with roasted hints..

The fat burning and antioxidant properties as well as the other health related benefits of wu yi teas are the same as wu long and oolong teas.

"Polyphenol", which is one of the natural ingredients of Wu yi tea as well as one of the most widely studied compounds within teas is known to effectively control obesity. Specifically, polyphenols stimulate the enzyme responsible for breaking down triglycerides. It basically speeds the metabolism - the result - you burn more calories.

So as a weight loss aid, wu yi tea has been researched and the findings have been documented. Please note, many studies on wu long tea have been conducted so the findings apply to Wu yi as well, since they both come from the oolong family.

So why all the attention? Maybe the name "Wu yi" simply intrigues people conjuring mysterious, magical mental imagery. The reputable online tea outlets have been selling tea from the Wu Yi region for years - it's nothing new.

Nontheless, the Chinese have been consistently using this unique fermenting process to create many Wu Yi teas with a delightful variety of tastes and aromas. Many don't fall into one distinct category.

The price of Wu yi teas will be dramatic, some batche being much more expensive than others by as much as $30.00 per 2oz. This has to do with the "complexity" of the particular batch.

The active ingredients of all Wu yi teas are basically the same however the unique taste experience ( caused by the somewhat variable fermentation process)will be different causing it to be more or less sought after. The aroma, astringency, body, toastiness, and fullness, to name a few all vary significantly between types of wu yi teas. Like wines, the more complex the taste the higher the price (usually per oz in loose leaf tea).

Also, a word about the actual "ingredients" in tea. Reputable loose-leaf tea distributors that sell wu yi / wu long / oolong add nothing to the tea. It is a purely natural substance with nothing man-made or added.

If this tea sounds delicious to you, trust me, it really is. The key is to experiment with few varieties as the taste and aromas do vary between wu yi and other wu long teas.

The link below provide access to some of the best online tea purveyors, truly dedicated to quality tea and have been in business many years; they are excellent sources regarding tea taste descriptions and quality. Experiment and develop your palette, try drinking Wu Yi with no additives (cream sugar etc..) as these will alter the antioxidant properties.