"Ferris92" > wrote in message
oups.com...
> Obviously many teas benefit from re-steeping (not too mention it being
> economical), but I'm curious about how and how long the leaves can be
> stored between steeps.
>
> For a decent oolong, 7 steeps is pretty average for me, but this means
> that the tea is out for at least 2 or 3 hours. Is this okay? Do
> the leaves go bad being wet and left out? Is there a limit? I
> remember reading a while ago an inconclusive study regarding oolong
> leaves that had been left out for a while and some bacteria (I
> believe) growing in them that caused cancer among mice. (I know, it
> sounds odd.) Has anyone else heard this and has anything been
> substantiated?
>
> Thanks!
>
I've reused leaves in my (covered) gaiwan over a 2 or 3 day period without
any (noticeable) ill effect.

Dean