# Phoenix Dan Cong Oolong Tea (Camellia sinensis 'Phoenix Dan Cong')

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/phoenix-dan-cong-oolong-tea
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-04-01
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Tea Cultivars
**Also Known As:** Camellia sinensis 'Phoenix Dan Cong', Fenghuang Dan Cong, Phoenix Single Bush Oolong, Dan Cong Oolong, Chaozhou Phoenix Tea, Phoenix Narcissus Oolong, Fenghuang Dancong, Single Bush Tea, Phoenix Mountain Oolong

## Overview

Phoenix Dan Cong oolong tea (Camellia sinensis 'Phoenix Dan Cong') is a highly oxidized Chinese oolong rich in catechins, theaflavins, and thearubigins that exert antioxidant effects via [free radical scaveng](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)ing and modulation of oxidative stress pathways. Its polyphenolic compounds, particularly EGCG and galloylated catechins, show preliminary anticancer activity through induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in human cancer cell lines.

## Health Benefits

• Antioxidant activity: In vitro studies show [free radical scaveng](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)ing with IC50 of 31.48 ± 4.96 μg/mL for DPPH• (preliminary evidence only)
• Potential anticancer properties: Laboratory studies demonstrate cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in breast (MDA-MB231) and colon (SW480) cancer cell lines (in vitro evidence only)
• Oxidative stress protection: Tea polyphenols inhibit ROS and protect vitamin C from degradation (based on cellular studies)
• Contains beneficial catechins: Major components include EGCG, ECG, and gallic acid (chemical analysis only)
• Traditional wellness support: Centuries of use in Chinese tea culture, though specific health claims lack clinical validation

## Mechanism of Action

The primary bioactive compounds in Phoenix Dan Cong — epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), galloylated catechins, theaflavins, and thearubigins — scavenge [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) with a measured DPPH• IC50 of 31.48 ± 4.96 μg/mL, likely through hydrogen atom transfer and electron donation mechanisms. EGCG inhibits the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway and downregulates Bcl-2 anti-apoptotic proteins, promoting cytochrome c release and caspase-3/9 activation leading to intrinsic apoptosis. Additionally, polyphenol-mediated inhibition of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) contributes to G2/M cell cycle arrest observed in MDA-MB231 breast and SW480 colon cancer cell lines.

## Clinical Summary

Current evidence for Phoenix Dan Cong oolong tea is predominantly from in vitro laboratory studies, including cell-line experiments demonstrating apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in breast cancer (MDA-MB231) and colon cancer (SW480) cells, with no published human randomized controlled trials specific to this cultivar identified to date. DPPH [free radical scaveng](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)ing data (IC50: 31.48 ± 4.96 μg/mL) provides quantified antioxidant benchmarking but reflects test-tube conditions that may not translate directly to in vivo bioavailability. Broader oolong tea research in human cohorts suggests associations with improved lipid profiles and glycemic markers, but these findings cannot be directly extrapolated to the Phoenix Dan Cong cultivar without cultivar-specific clinical trials. The overall evidence base is preliminary, and robust human studies are needed before therapeutic claims can be substantiated.

## Nutritional Profile

Phoenix Dan Cong Oolong Tea is a semi-oxidized tea (60-80% oxidation) with a complex phytochemical profile. Per 240mL brewed cup (2g dry leaf): Calories ~2-4 kcal, Carbohydrates ~0.5-1g, Protein ~0.1-0.3g, Fat negligible (<0.1g). Key bioactive compounds: Catechins total 80-120mg per cup (lower than green tea due to oxidation), including EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) ~20-40mg, EGC ~15-25mg, ECG ~10-20mg, EC ~8-15mg. Theaflavins ~15-30mg and thearubigins ~60-100mg (oxidation-derived polyphenols characteristic of oolong). Caffeine content ~30-50mg per 240mL serving. Theanine (L-theanine) ~6-10mg per cup, which modulates caffeine absorption and promotes alpha-wave brain activity. Chlorogenic acids ~5-15mg. Total polyphenol content ~150-200mg GAE per cup. Minerals per cup: Fluoride ~0.1-0.5mg, Manganese ~0.4-0.6mg, Potassium ~20-35mg, Magnesium ~3-5mg, trace amounts of Zinc, Calcium, and Selenium. Volatile aromatic compounds include nerolidol, indole, and methyl jasmonate, characteristic of the cultivar's distinctive orchid-like aroma. Bioavailability notes: Catechin absorption is 1-10% systemically; co-consumption with citrus (vitamin C) may enhance bioavailability by up to 3-fold; milk proteins can bind polyphenols reducing absorption; best consumed without food for maximum polyphenol uptake. Data based on oolong tea class with Phoenix Dan Cong-specific data limited in peer-reviewed literature.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges for human consumption were identified in the research. Standard oolong tea consumption typically uses 2-3 grams of dried leaf steeped in hot water, though no standardized extract formulations specific to Phoenix Dan Cong were described. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Phoenix Dan Cong oolong tea contains caffeine (estimated 50–75 mg per 8 oz serving depending on oxidation and steeping time), making it potentially problematic for individuals with caffeine sensitivity, anxiety disorders, cardiac arrhythmias, or hypertension. High-dose polyphenol consumption — particularly EGCG — has been associated with hepatotoxic effects in susceptible individuals when consumed in concentrated supplement form, though brewed tea at normal serving quantities is generally regarded as safe. Caution is warranted with concomitant use of blood thinners such as warfarin, as tea polyphenols may exhibit mild anticoagulant activity and vitamin K content could affect INR stability. Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should limit intake due to caffeine and the theoretical risk of high catechin levels interfering with folate [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management).

## Scientific Research

The primary research consists of one in vitro investigation (PMC6294836) evaluating [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and anticancer properties using human tumor cell lines. No human randomized controlled trials or clinical outcome studies were identified in the available literature. The existing evidence is limited to laboratory-based cellular studies which cannot be directly extrapolated to clinical efficacy in humans.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Phoenix Dan Cong has been cultivated in the Fenghuang Mountains for centuries as part of Chinese tea culture and traditional Chinese medicine practices. The tea is traditionally consumed as part of 'Cha Dao' or 'the way of tea,' a philosophical practice emphasizing the sensory and meditative experience of tea consumption. It is classified as one of China's premier oolong varieties, valued for its complex aromatic profile.

## Synergistic Combinations

Green tea extract, White tea, Pu-erh tea, L-theanine, Vitamin C

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What makes Phoenix Dan Cong oolong tea different from other oolong teas?

Phoenix Dan Cong is a single-cultivar oolong from the Chaozhou region of Guangdong, China, typically with 60–80% oxidation, producing higher concentrations of theaflavins and thearubigins compared to lightly oxidized greener oolongs. Its distinctive aromatic profile — driven by volatile compounds including nerolidol, linalool, and indole — is cultivar-specific and differs markedly from Tie Guan Yin or Wuyi rock oolongs. These compositional differences may translate to a distinct polyphenol ratio, though direct comparative clinical studies are lacking.

### Does Phoenix Dan Cong oolong tea help with cancer?

Laboratory studies show that Phoenix Dan Cong polyphenols can induce apoptosis and G2/M cell cycle arrest in MDA-MB231 breast cancer and SW480 colon cancer cell lines, suggesting anticancer mechanisms involving caspase activation and CDK inhibition. However, all current anticancer data are from in vitro (cell culture) experiments, meaning no human clinical trials have confirmed these effects in cancer patients or for prevention. Consumers should not use this tea as a substitute for evidence-based cancer treatment.

### How much caffeine is in Phoenix Dan Cong oolong tea?

Phoenix Dan Cong oolong tea contains approximately 50–75 mg of caffeine per 8-ounce brewed cup, though this varies based on leaf-to-water ratio, water temperature (typically 90–95°C), and steeping duration. Because Dan Cong is traditionally consumed in gongfu-style small infusions, cumulative caffeine intake across multiple steepings can be significant. Individuals sensitive to caffeine should monitor total daily intake, particularly if combining with other caffeinated beverages or stimulant supplements.

### What antioxidant compounds are found in Phoenix Dan Cong oolong tea?

Phoenix Dan Cong contains a spectrum of polyphenols including EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), epicatechin gallate (ECG), theaflavins, and thearubigins, with the latter two being oxidation products characteristic of more heavily oxidized teas. The measured DPPH• free radical scavenging IC50 of 31.48 ± 4.96 μg/mL quantifies its antioxidant potency in vitro, placing it competitively among high-grade oolongs. Thearubigins, which form during oxidation, may contribute significantly to antioxidant capacity in a way that distinguishes it from green tea catechin profiles.

### Are there any drug interactions with Phoenix Dan Cong oolong tea?

The caffeine in Phoenix Dan Cong can potentiate stimulant effects of sympathomimetic drugs, increase the risk of adverse effects with MAO inhibitors, and reduce the efficacy of adenosine-based medications. Tea polyphenols, particularly EGCG, may chelate iron and reduce its absorption when consumed with meals, and could modestly affect warfarin metabolism by influencing CYP1A2 enzyme activity. Patients on anticoagulants, thyroid medications, or stimulant-class drugs should consult a healthcare provider before making Phoenix Dan Cong a regular, high-volume part of their diet.

### Is Phoenix Dan Cong oolong tea safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Phoenix Dan Cong oolong tea contains caffeine (approximately 30-50 mg per 8 oz cup), which should be limited during pregnancy and breastfeeding according to standard medical guidelines recommending no more than 200 mg daily during pregnancy. Pregnant and nursing individuals should consult with their healthcare provider before consuming this tea regularly. Occasional consumption in moderate amounts is generally considered acceptable, but individual tolerance varies.

### What is the optimal daily amount of Phoenix Dan Cong oolong tea to consume for health benefits?

Most research on oolong tea benefits is based on consumption of 2-3 cups daily (approximately 400-600 mL), though optimal intake varies by individual health status and caffeine sensitivity. Phoenix Dan Cong's polyphenol content is highest when steeped at 195-205°F for 3-5 minutes, which maximizes antioxidant extraction. Starting with 1-2 cups daily and gradually increasing allows individuals to assess personal tolerance, particularly due to its caffeine content.

### How does the quality and harvest time of Phoenix Dan Cong oolong affect its antioxidant potency?

Phoenix Dan Cong oolong harvested during spring produces higher polyphenol concentrations compared to later harvests, as younger leaves contain elevated levels of bioactive compounds including catechins and theaflavins. Single-origin, hand-picked Phoenix Dan Cong from the Feng Huang mountain region typically demonstrates superior antioxidant activity compared to commercial blends or lower-grade variants. Storage conditions—kept cool, dry, and away from light—significantly preserve antioxidant compounds, with properly stored tea maintaining potency for 1-2 years.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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