# Jin Jun Mei (Camellia sinensis) **Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/jin-jun-mei **Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia **Updated:** 2026-03-31 **Evidence Score:** 2 / 10 **Category:** Tea Cultivars **Also Known As:** Golden Eyebrow Tea, Jin Junmei, Golden Beautiful Eyebrow, Premium Wuyi Black Tea, Spring Bud Black Tea, Camellia sinensis var. Jin Jun Mei ## Overview Jin Jun Mei is a premium black tea cultivar of Camellia sinensis containing theaflavins and caffeine as primary bioactive compounds. These compounds may support [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) through [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) pathways and provide mild stimulant effects via adenosine receptor antagonism. ## Health Benefits • No clinical health benefits documented in available research • No controlled trials found examining therapeutic effects • No biomedical studies available on specific health outcomes • No pharmacological research identified in current literature • Traditional tea consumption benefits cannot be specifically attributed without clinical evidence ## Mechanism of Action Jin Jun Mei's theaflavins act as potent antioxidants by scavenging free radicals and inhibiting [lipid peroxidation](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) pathways. Caffeine blocks adenosine A1 and A2A receptors in the central nervous system, promoting alertness and potentially enhancing [cognitive function](/ingredients/condition/cognitive). The polyphenolic compounds may also modulate nitric oxide pathways to support vascular [endothelial function](/ingredients/condition/heart-health). ## Clinical Summary No controlled clinical trials have specifically examined Jin Jun Mei's health effects as an isolated tea cultivar. General black tea research includes studies with 500-2000 participants showing modest [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) benefits with 3-4 cups daily consumption. Most evidence comes from observational studies rather than randomized controlled trials. The lack of cultivar-specific research limits definitive health benefit claims for Jin Jun Mei specifically. ## Nutritional Profile Jin Jun Mei is a premium Chinese black tea (fully oxidized) from Wuyishan, Fujian Province, made exclusively from single buds of small-leaf Camellia sinensis cultivars. As a brewed beverage (~240ml serving), it contains negligible macronutrients: <2 kcal, 0g fat, 0g protein in liquid form. Dry leaf composition includes: Polyphenols (total 15-25% dry weight), primarily theaflavins (1-2% dry weight) and thearubigins (10-20% dry weight) formed during full oxidation — these are the dominant bioactive compounds distinguishing black tea from green tea. Residual catechins (EGCG, ECG) are present at reduced concentrations (~1-3% dry weight) compared to green tea (~15-30%), due to oxidation conversion. Caffeine content: approximately 40-70mg per 240ml brewed cup (dry leaf caffeine ~2.5-4% by weight), consistent with high-grade black teas; single-bud harvest may trend toward higher caffeine as young buds are caffeine-dense. L-Theanine: estimated 10-25mg per cup (~1-2% dry leaf weight), partially reduced from oxidation but still bioavailable; known to modulate caffeine absorption. Minerals per brewed cup: Manganese (~0.4-1.0mg, contributing meaningfully to daily intake), Fluoride (~0.1-0.4mg), Potassium (~40-90mg), trace Magnesium (~2-5mg), trace Zinc. B-vitamins: trace amounts of B2 (riboflavin) and B3 (niacin) present in dry leaf but minimal in brewed liquid. Volatile aromatic compounds: Jin Jun Mei is noted for a distinctive honey, floral, and cocoa aroma profile attributed to specific volatile compounds including geraniol, linalool, phenylethanol, and Maillard reaction products from the drying/firing process — these are organoleptic rather than nutritionally significant. Oxalates: moderate levels (~4-5mg per cup), relevant for individuals managing kidney stone risk. Bioavailability note: Theaflavin and thearubigin absorption is lower than catechin absorption (~5-10% bioavailability); adding milk (casein binding) may further reduce polyphenol bioavailability. Brewed concentration varies significantly with water temperature (90-95°C recommended), steep time (15-30 seconds for first infusion in gongfu style), and leaf-to-water ratio. ## Dosage & Preparation No clinically studied dosage ranges available. Traditional tea preparation typically uses 2-3g per 150-200ml water. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. ## Safety & Drug Interactions Jin Jun Mei is generally safe for healthy adults when consumed in moderate amounts (2-4 cups daily). Caffeine content may cause [insomnia](/ingredients/condition/sleep), anxiety, or rapid heartbeat in sensitive individuals. May interact with blood thinners due to vitamin K content and can reduce iron absorption when consumed with meals. Pregnant women should limit intake to under 200mg caffeine daily. ## Scientific Research No clinical trials or meta-analyses were found in the available research for Jin Jun Mei. The current literature is limited to tea industry descriptions and flavor profile analyses rather than biomedical research. ## Historical & Cultural Context Jin Jun Mei is described as a premium Chinese black tea from the Wuyi Mountains region. No specific historical medicinal uses or cultural health applications were documented in the available research. ## Synergistic Combinations Other black teas, green tea, white tea, oolong tea, pu-erh tea ## Frequently Asked Questions ### How much caffeine does Jin Jun Mei contain? Jin Jun Mei typically contains 40-70mg of caffeine per 8-ounce cup, similar to other black teas. The exact amount varies based on brewing time, water temperature, and leaf quality. ### What makes Jin Jun Mei different from other black teas? Jin Jun Mei is made exclusively from tea buds harvested in Fujian Province, China, creating a more delicate flavor profile. It contains higher concentrations of theaflavins compared to standard black teas due to its specific processing methods. ### Can Jin Jun Mei help with weight loss? No clinical studies have tested Jin Jun Mei specifically for weight loss effects. While some black tea research suggests modest metabolic benefits, evidence is limited and Jin Jun Mei has not been studied for this purpose. ### How should Jin Jun Mei be brewed for maximum benefits? Brew Jin Jun Mei with water heated to 195-205°F for 3-5 minutes to optimize polyphenol extraction. Using 1 teaspoon per cup allows proper compound release without excessive tannin extraction. ### Are there any side effects of drinking Jin Jun Mei daily? Daily consumption is generally safe but may cause caffeine-related side effects like jitteriness or sleep disruption in sensitive individuals. Drinking with meals may reduce iron absorption, particularly concerning for those with iron deficiency. ### Is Jin Jun Mei safe to drink during pregnancy and breastfeeding? Jin Jun Mei contains caffeine, which pregnant and breastfeeding women should consume in limited amounts according to health guidelines. While moderate tea consumption is generally considered safe, pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider about appropriate caffeine intake, as excessive caffeine may be associated with pregnancy complications. Individual tolerance varies, and a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance based on individual circumstances. ### Does Jin Jun Mei interact with blood thinners or other common medications? Jin Jun Mei contains compounds like catechins and caffeine that may have mild interactions with certain medications, particularly blood thinners such as warfarin. If you are taking prescription medications, especially anticoagulants or stimulant-based drugs, consult your healthcare provider before regularly consuming Jin Jun Mei. The interaction potential is generally low with moderate consumption, but individual factors and medication types should be evaluated by a medical professional. ### What is the difference between Jin Jun Mei and other premium black tea cultivars? Jin Jun Mei is a Chinese black tea cultivar distinguished by its golden-tipped leaves, which result from a specific processing method and the use of tea plant buds, creating a naturally sweet, fruity flavor profile compared to other black teas. Unlike oxidized black teas from other regions, Jin Jun Mei typically has a lighter body and more delicate taste, similar to oolong in complexity. The cultivar's unique terroir from Fujian Province and selective harvesting of unopened buds set it apart from Assam, Keemun, or Ceylon black teas in both appearance and taste characteristics. --- *Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com* *License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. 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