# Shoumei Tea (Camellia sinensis)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/shoumei-tea
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-24
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Tea Cultivars
**Also Known As:** Camellia sinensis, Shou Mei, Longevity Eyebrow Tea, White Tea, Gongmei, Tribute Eyebrow, 寿眉, 贡眉

## Overview

Shoumei tea is a white tea variety from Camellia sinensis rich in polyphenols including gallic acid, catechin, hyperoside, and sulfuretin. These compounds demonstrate [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and glycemic support through α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzyme inhibition in laboratory studies.

## Health Benefits

• Contains [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) polyphenols (gallic acid, catechin, hyperoside, sulfuretin) that may support cellular health (in vitro evidence only)
• Tea flower polysaccharides demonstrate α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activities, suggesting potential glycemic support (in vitro evidence)
• High catechin content (552.300 mg/g in extract form) comparable to other white teas (in vitro analysis)
• Contains essential minerals including potassium (92-151 mg/l), calcium, and manganese (chemical composition data)
• Minimal processing preserves natural polyphenol profile (extraction methodology research)

## Mechanism of Action

Shoumei tea polyphenols including gallic acid and catechin scavenge [free radical](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)s through electron donation and metal chelation pathways. Tea flower polysaccharides inhibit carbohydrate-digesting enzymes α-glucosidase and α-amylase, potentially slowing glucose absorption. These mechanisms suggest cellular protection and glycemic modulation through antioxidant and enzymatic pathways.

## Clinical Summary

Current research on Shoumei tea consists primarily of in vitro laboratory studies examining polyphenol content and enzymatic activities. Studies have identified significant concentrations of gallic acid, catechin, hyperoside, and sulfuretin with demonstrated [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) capacity in cell culture models. Tea flower polysaccharides showed measurable α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activity in enzyme assays. Human clinical trials evaluating safety and efficacy are currently lacking, limiting evidence strength to preliminary laboratory findings.

## Nutritional Profile

Shoumei Tea (Camellia sinensis) is a white tea with minimal caloric content when brewed (~2-3 kcal per 250ml serving). Macronutrients are negligible in liquid form (trace carbohydrates <0.5g, protein <0.3g, fat <0.1g per serving). Key bioactive compounds include: Catechins at notably high concentrations (552.300 mg/g in extract form; brewed tea yields approximately 150-200 mg/L), including EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) as dominant catechin, alongside ECG, EGC, and EC fractions. Polyphenols identified include gallic acid, catechin monomers, hyperoside (quercetin-3-galactoside), and sulfuretin. Tea flower polysaccharides are present and demonstrate enzyme-inhibitory bioactivity in vitro. Caffeine content is moderate, estimated at 15-30 mg per 250ml brewed cup (lower than green or black tea due to minimal processing). L-theanine is present as a characteristic amino acid (~6-10 mg per 250ml serving), contributing to flavor and potential synergistic effects with caffeine. Micronutrients in brewed form include trace amounts of manganese (~0.4-0.5 mg per cup), potassium (~40-50 mg per cup), fluoride (~0.1-0.3 mg per cup), and minimal zinc and magnesium. Bioavailability note: Catechin bioavailability from brewed tea is limited (estimated 1-5% systemic absorption); co-consumption with food may further reduce absorption. Extract-form concentrations cited in existing data represent concentrated preparations, not equivalent to standard brewed tea. Vitamin C content is low compared to other white teas due to light oxidation during processing.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges for Shoumei tea in human subjects are available in the provided research. The tea is typically prepared as an infusion by steeping dried leaves in hot water. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Shoumei tea safety profile is generally similar to other white teas, though specific toxicology data is limited. As a caffeinated beverage, it may interact with stimulant medications and should be consumed cautiously with blood thinners due to polyphenol content. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should limit intake due to caffeine content. Individuals with iron deficiency should consume separately from meals as tea polyphenols can inhibit iron absorption.

## Scientific Research

The available research consists of in vitro chemical composition studies and extraction methodology research rather than clinical outcome data in human subjects. No human clinical trials, randomized controlled trials, or meta-analyses specific to Shoumei tea were found in the provided search results.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Traditional use information specific to Shoumei tea is not provided in the available research. While Camellia sinensis has a long history in traditional Chinese medicine, the particular historical applications of the Shoumei variety are not documented in the provided sources.

## Synergistic Combinations

Green tea extract, L-theanine, Vitamin C, Quercetin, EGCG

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How much caffeine does Shoumei tea contain?

Shoumei tea typically contains 15-30mg of caffeine per 8oz cup, significantly lower than black tea (40-70mg) but higher than most herbal teas. The exact amount varies by processing method and steeping time.

### What makes Shoumei tea different from other white teas?

Shoumei tea uses larger, more mature leaves compared to premium white teas like Silver Needle, resulting in a stronger flavor and higher polyphenol concentration. It contains notable levels of sulfuretin and hyperoside not commonly found in other tea varieties.

### Can Shoumei tea help with blood sugar control?

Laboratory studies show Shoumei tea polysaccharides inhibit α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzymes that break down carbohydrates, potentially slowing glucose absorption. However, human clinical trials are needed to confirm these effects in real-world conditions.

### How should Shoumei tea be prepared for maximum benefits?

Steep Shoumei tea in 175-185°F water for 3-5 minutes to optimize polyphenol extraction while avoiding bitter compounds. Using 1 teaspoon of loose tea per 8oz water allows for multiple infusions while preserving beneficial compounds.

### Are there any side effects from drinking Shoumei tea daily?

Daily Shoumei tea consumption is generally well-tolerated, though excessive intake may cause caffeine-related effects like jitters or sleep disruption. The polyphenols may reduce iron absorption, so individuals with iron deficiency should monitor intake carefully.

### Is Shoumei tea safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Shoumei tea contains moderate caffeine levels and bioactive polyphenols that may cross the placenta, so pregnant women should limit consumption to 1–2 cups daily or consult their healthcare provider. Limited clinical data exists on safety during breastfeeding, though the polyphenol content is generally recognized as safe in food amounts. As with all caffeinated beverages during pregnancy, moderation and medical guidance are recommended.

### Does Shoumei tea interact with blood sugar medications like metformin or insulin?

Shoumei tea's α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory compounds may theoretically potentiate glucose-lowering medications, increasing hypoglycemia risk. Individuals taking diabetes medications should monitor blood sugar levels closely and consult their healthcare provider before regular Shoumei tea consumption. No published clinical interaction studies exist, so individual medical supervision is essential.

### What is the difference between Shoumei tea extract and steeped Shoumei tea in terms of polyphenol content?

Shoumei tea extract contains concentrated polyphenols (up to 552.3 mg/g catechin in laboratory analysis), while steeped tea delivers lower bioavailable amounts depending on water temperature and steeping time. Extract forms provide standardized dosing but may not replicate the full phytochemical profile of whole-leaf tea. Steeped tea offers a more traditional, whole-food delivery method with less concentration but potentially better tolerability for daily consumption.

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