On Oct 3, 4:54*pm, Prof Wonmug > wrote:
> I have about 200g of Gunpowder Temple of Heaven. I generally like this
> tea and I think I have the brewing parameters about right (~1.5-2.0
> g/cup for 4:00 at 160°F).
>
> But I've noticed that after several cups, I get a mild sensation in
> the back of my throat that feels more or less like heartburn. I say
> "more or less" because I'm on very strong prescription medication to
> control stomach acid, so I'm pretty sure it isn't really heartburn. I
> haven't had that for 20 years or so.
>
> Tea contains caffeine, which can cause a relaxation of the LES (lower
> esophageal sphincter) allowing stomach acid to squirt up into the
> esophagus. This sounds like it might be the problem.
>
> On the other hand, several web sites recommend tea to aid in
> digestion, especially green tea. ;-)
>
> Others claim that herbal teas with even trace amounts of peppermint,
> chamomile, ginger, licorice root, or catnip help the stomach lining
> repair itself.
>
> Is anyone else experiencing this?
>
> Any remedies?

Gunpowder isn't really known for being a higher-end tea. It can be
rough in a number of ways. It is often acidic and can be smoky/harsh.
Unless blended for Moroccan mint, and even then it is not always
pleasant. I think we all have a Temple of Heaven gunpowder box that
we've purchased at some point in our early tea journey's... i think
that's how they stay in business It sure isn't for the tea.

Most of us stay away from the overly positive health claims made about
tea, it isn't a wonderdrug, it's just like any other plant in that it
may have some small trace properties that can be beneficial but it
won't fix your heart, tile your bathroom, and mow the lawn as so many
make such wild claims. Herbs and tea do have some subtle properties
though and the ones you have mentioned are all good ones for a number
of things. A great book is called "Back to Eden" and is an old book in
it's umpteenth reprinting which is filled with natural cures and herbs
and info.

I'd say that you probably want to stick to some of the milder teas at
first and get some bearing. Assam and gunpowder are like being punched
in the face as far as subtlety. Try some lighter greens and oolongs,
stay away from the whites and blacks right off the bat especially with
these issues. Then work around and branch out. Yellow tea (light and
slightly nutty), Bi Lo Chun (light and refreshing), Dragonwell (mild
and chestnutty), TGY (light-to-mild and floral), Shui Xian (mild but
basic), even some of the more generic "Chinese Restaurant Teas" which
are Shui Xian or a similar mild oolong. There are others, in this
range too, of light to mild teas that will be much better reference
points.

- Dominic