GABA oolong is a specially processed tea which is flushed with nitrogen during the what is traditionally an 'oxidization' process. This creates GABA (Gamma Aminobutyric Acid) in the tea leaves, the chief inhibitory neurotransmitter in our central nervous system. GABA oolong is said to calm the nerves and potentially has a whole host of medical benefits. This tea contains a high percentage of Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA), known for having a calming effect on the nervous system. Tea plants are known to produce leaves especially high in glutamic acid. About two weeks prior to plucking, GABA oolong leaves are partially shaded, which causes increased production of this substance. During the oxidation-phase of production, all oxygen is replaced with nitrogen gas, whose presence causes the glutamic acid to be converted to Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid.The extra GABA content can have an extra calming effect, and that drinking these teas can aid with stress, anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders. Though the scientifically derived process of making this type of tea certainly differentiates it from traditionally crafted varieties, we still take these bold health claims with a grain of salt. We have been approached many times in the past about GABA oolong. But we don't choose teas because of their health benefits, we choose teas that taste good! And this style of GABA tastes really yummy. It's processed darker, like a red water oolong, which amounts to a deep orange/red broth with caramel and ripe fruit notes. The fragrance is herbal with the starchy sweetness of banana chips, malt dominates the tasting notes, with a textured liquor. This is a solid, rich GABA tea with a full caramel sweetness. Initial notes of red berries in early infusions yeild to more dried fruit, figs and raisin, aroma in later infusions as does a hint of Chinese herbal aroma. Liquor is brothy, straightforward and satisfying with plenty of sweetness.