# Longjing Dragonwell (Camellia sinensis 'Longjing Dragonwell')

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/longjing-dragonwell
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-04-01
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Tea Cultivars
**Also Known As:** West Lake Dragon Well, Xi Hu Longjing, Dragon Well Green Tea, Lung Ching, Long Jing Cha, Xihu Longjing, Hangzhou Longjing, Chinese Dragon Well

## Overview

Longjing Dragonwell is a premium Chinese green tea cultivar (Camellia sinensis) prized for its flat, sword-shaped leaves and high concentration of catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). These polyphenols exert antioxidant and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects primarily by scavenging [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and modulating NF-κB signaling pathways.

## Health Benefits

• No cultivar-specific clinical evidence available - general green tea benefits may apply (evidence quality: traditional/theoretical)
• Contains catechins including EGCG with potential [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) properties (evidence quality: based on general green tea research, not cultivar-specific)
• Provides L-theanine and caffeine combination for potential calm alertness (evidence quality: based on general green tea components)
• Rich in vitamin C content (evidence quality: chemical analysis only, no clinical trials)
• Traditional use for refreshing and subtle energizing effects (evidence quality: historical/traditional use only)

## Mechanism of Action

The primary bioactive compound EGCG inhibits catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) and modulates 67-kDa laminin receptor signaling, contributing to [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and potential anti-proliferative effects. L-theanine, present in Longjing leaves, promotes alpha-brainwave activity by antagonizing glutamate NMDA receptors and upregulating GABA synthesis, producing calm alertness without sedation. Caffeine in Longjing competitively blocks adenosine A1 and A2A receptors, synergizing with L-theanine to enhance sustained [cognitive performance](/ingredients/condition/cognitive).

## Clinical Summary

No randomized controlled trials have been conducted specifically on the Longjing Dragonwell cultivar, so evidence is extrapolated from broader green tea research. Meta-analyses of green tea catechin supplementation (typically 400–800 mg EGCG/day across trials of 50–1000+ participants) have shown modest reductions in [LDL cholesterol](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) (approximately 2–5 mg/dL) and fasting glucose. A 2017 Cochrane-adjacent review found green tea consumption associated with small but statistically significant reductions in systolic blood pressure (−1.94 mmHg). The cultivar-specific polyphenol and amino acid profile of Longjing has not been independently validated in human trials, making all benefit claims theoretical extrapolations.

## Nutritional Profile

Longjing Dragonwell green tea (dry leaf basis, per 100g): Protein 20-25g (partially extractable into brew); Carbohydrates 50-55g including dietary fiber 10-15g; Fat 3-5g including small amounts of alpha-linolenic acid. Bioactive catechins (polyphenols): total catechins 150-200mg per 200ml brewed cup, comprising EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) 60-80mg/cup as dominant catechin, EGC (epigallocatechin) 20-30mg/cup, ECG (epicatechin gallate) 15-25mg/cup, EC (epicatechin) 10-15mg/cup; Longjing's flat-pressed processing (pan-firing rather than steaming) results in moderately lower total catechin content compared to Japanese gyokuro but higher than heavily oxidized teas. L-theanine: approximately 6-9mg per 200ml brewed cup, contributing to umami character; caffeine: 25-40mg per 200ml brewed cup (lower than many green teas due to pre-Qingming early harvest timing and brewing temperature typically 75-85°C). Chlorophyll content moderate (pan-firing reduces chlorophyll vs. steamed teas). Vitamins: Vitamin C approximately 3-5mg per 100ml brew (heat-sensitive, partially degraded during pan-firing); Vitamin K present in dry leaf (~160-200mcg/100g dry leaf, minimally extracted into brew ~1-2mcg/cup). Minerals per 200ml brew: fluoride 0.1-0.3mg, manganese 0.4-0.7mg (notable concentration), potassium 20-30mg, magnesium 3-5mg, zinc trace amounts 0.05-0.1mg. Amino acids: theanine dominates free amino acid profile; also contains glutamic acid, aspartic acid contributing to sweetness. Bioavailability notes: catechin absorption is 1-10% of ingested amount; bioavailability enhanced by avoiding milk addition and consuming on empty stomach; pan-fired processing preserves more intact catechin structures compared to heavily roasted teas; the characteristic chestnut-sweet flavor profile of Longjing is attributed to specific volatile compounds including hexanal, linalool, and geraniol formed during pan-firing, present in trace quantities (ppb range) but pharmacologically negligible.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosages exist for Longjing Dragonwell specifically. Traditional preparation involves brewing 3-5g of leaves in 150-200mL hot water (80-85°C) for 2-3 minutes, yielding approximately 30-50mg catechins and 20-40mg caffeine per cup based on general green tea profiles. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Longjing Dragonwell consumed as brewed tea is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for healthy adults, but high-dose EGCG supplements (above 800 mg/day) have been associated with hepatotoxicity in rare case reports. Caffeine content (approximately 30–50 mg per 250 ml cup) may interact with stimulant medications, MAO inhibitors, and anticoagulants such as warfarin, as catechins possess mild vitamin K antagonism. Pregnant individuals should limit total caffeine intake to under 200 mg/day; high-dose catechin supplements are not recommended during pregnancy due to insufficient safety data. Individuals with iron-deficiency anemia should avoid consuming Longjing tea with meals, as EGCG can inhibit non-heme iron absorption by up to 25%.

## Scientific Research

No human clinical trials, randomized controlled trials, or meta-analyses specific to the Longjing Dragonwell cultivar were identified in the available research. All potential health claims are extrapolated from general green tea research on shared components like catechins, with no cultivar-specific biomedical evidence available.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Longjing tea has been cultivated and prized in Chinese tradition for over 1,000 years, particularly since the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), as a high-grade green tea from West Lake plantations. It was historically valued for its refreshing taste, aroma, and subtle energizing effects rather than formal medicinal roles in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and was enjoyed by emperors for its sensory quality.

## Synergistic Combinations

L-theanine, vitamin C, piperine, quercetin, ginger

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How much EGCG does Longjing Dragonwell tea contain?

Longjing Dragonwell leaves typically contain 12–16% total catechins by dry weight, with EGCG representing roughly 50–60% of that fraction, yielding approximately 60–100 mg of EGCG per standard 250 ml brewed cup depending on water temperature and steep time. Brewing at 75–80°C for 2–3 minutes preserves catechin content while minimizing bitterness. These figures are based on general West Lake Longjing analyses; exact concentrations vary by harvest season and growing elevation.

### Does Longjing Dragonwell tea help with weight loss?

There is no cultivar-specific clinical evidence linking Longjing Dragonwell directly to weight loss outcomes. General green tea catechin research suggests EGCG may modestly increase 24-hour energy expenditure by 3–4% and fat oxidation by inhibiting COMT, thereby prolonging norepinephrine activity in adipose tissue. A meta-analysis of 11 studies found green tea catechins produced an average weight reduction of 1.31 kg over 12 weeks compared to placebo, an effect considered modest and not a substitute for dietary intervention.

### What is the caffeine content of Longjing Dragonwell tea?

A standard 250 ml cup of brewed Longjing Dragonwell contains approximately 30–50 mg of caffeine, placing it lower than black tea (40–70 mg) and significantly lower than drip coffee (90–120 mg). Caffeine content is influenced by leaf grade, water temperature, and steep duration; hotter water and longer steeping extract more caffeine. The presence of L-theanine (typically 20–40 mg per cup) is believed to modulate caffeine's stimulant effect, reducing jitteriness while preserving alertness.

### Can Longjing Dragonwell tea interact with blood thinners?

Yes, catechins in Longjing Dragonwell, including EGCG, have demonstrated mild antiplatelet activity and may have additive effects when combined with anticoagulants such as warfarin (Coumadin) or antiplatelet drugs like aspirin and clopidogrel. High-dose green tea extracts have been associated with altered INR (International Normalized Ratio) values in case reports. Individuals on warfarin therapy should maintain consistent green tea intake and discuss changes with their healthcare provider to avoid fluctuations in anticoagulation status.

### Is Longjing Dragonwell tea different from regular green tea?

Longjing Dragonwell is a specific cultivar of Camellia sinensis grown primarily in the West Lake region of Hangzhou, China, distinguished by its flat, pan-fired leaves and umami-forward flavor profile attributable to a higher L-theanine-to-catechin ratio than many other green tea cultivars. The controlled pan-firing process (as opposed to steaming used in Japanese green teas) reduces chlorophyll degradation differently and affects the final polyphenol composition. While it shares core bioactive compounds with other green teas, its specific cultivar genetics and terroir have not been independently studied in clinical trials to confirm a meaningfully different health profile.

### How should Longjing Dragonwell tea be prepared to maximize its beneficial compounds?

Longjing Dragonwell should be steeped in water between 160–180°F (70–80°C) for 2–3 minutes to preserve heat-sensitive catechins and L-theanine without extracting excessive bitterness or tannins. Using filtered water and avoiding boiling water helps maintain the delicate balance of bioactive compounds in this premium cultivar. Multiple shorter infusions are traditionally preferred over prolonged single steeping to optimize both flavor and nutrient content.

### Is Longjing Dragonwell tea safe for pregnant or nursing women?

While Longjing Dragonwell contains moderate caffeine (approximately 25–50 mg per cup), pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before regular consumption, as most guidelines recommend limiting caffeine during pregnancy. Nursing mothers should be aware that caffeine passes into breast milk and may affect infant sleep or irritability. Traditional use does not eliminate the need for individual medical assessment based on pregnancy-specific guidelines.

### What makes Longjing Dragonwell's L-theanine and caffeine combination unique compared to other green tea cultivars?

Longjing Dragonwell is known for its particularly smooth, naturally sweet flavor profile and balanced L-theanine-to-caffeine ratio, which may produce a calmer alertness compared to higher-caffeine teas. The cultivar's specific growing conditions in Hangzhou's terroir contribute to higher amino acid content, though cultivar-specific clinical evidence is limited. This balance makes it a preferred choice among those seeking cognitive support without the jitteriness associated with higher-caffeine beverages.

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