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Another tea to buy for mental health is rosemary tea. Rosemary is often used in cooking and for fragrances, but it can also be used to make an all-natural herbal tea. Preliminary research has shown that rosemary tea can aid cognitive health, even potentially helping those with Alzheimer’s disease. More clinical studies need to be done to verify the benefits of rosemary tea, but the early results are encouraging. Additionally, rosemary tea can reduce inflammation which can damage the body’s cells and nervous system, as well as lead to long-term health issues.
Check out our vast array of high quality loose-leaf teas, including a flavored green tea kit or check out a recipe for easily making your own rosemary tea. We offer competitive pricing, free shipping on orders over $49, and many payment options. Don’t wait, place your order of organic tea from Sencha now!
]]>Loose leaf tea usually consists of unbroken, whole tea leaves. When buying loose leaf tea from a loose leaf tea shop, there is often times more of the whole tea leaf, which means you get a higher quality of brewed tea compared with tea bags or sachets. When you brew loose leaf tea, the leaves will begin to unfurl and you will begin to see the shape of the leaf itself. You will enjoy richer flavor and more health benefits when drinking loose-leaf tea.
Types of loose leaf teas that are well-known include green tea and Chai tea. Sencha green tea is cultivated in Japan, has a natural light sweetness, and has high levels of Vitamin C. Chai tea is quite popular in the South Asian region, has a strong flavor combination of cinnamon, cardamom, and clove, and is considered to be a great choice for reducing stress and providing comfort.
Sencha Tea Bar is a loose leaf tea shop with a wide variety of the best loose leaf teas, including old favorites and exiting new flavors to try. Next time you buy loose leaf tea, be sure you order from us - we offer competitive pricing, free shipping on orders over $49, and a variety of payment options. Place your loose leaf tea order with Sencha Tea Bar today!
]]>There are several advantages to buying loose leaf tea instead of tea bags. The best loose leaf tea brands use whole tea leaves, which is often not the case with prepackaged tea bags. Many commercial companies producing tea bags will cut back on the whole tea leaves because of production costs, going with just pieces of tea leaves and dust.
As a result, loose leaf tea is generally of a higher quality than tea bags. This is also why the best loose leaf tea will have a better flavor and more health benefits than tea bags. One of the health advantages of buying loose leaf tea, compared to tea bags, is that you get a higher amount of antioxidants in each cup of brewed tea, which can help to prevent cell abnormalities that can lead to health issues such as cancer.
Loose leaf tea shops, such as Sencha Tea Bar, have high-quality loose-leaf tea for which you just need a tea infuser or fillable tea bags to brew those tea leaves into high-quality tea. Two of the best and most popular loose-leaf teas are Sencha and Assam Chai. Let us be your go-to loose leaf tea shop - we offer competitive pricing, free shipping on orders over $49, and various payment options. Don’t wait, buy loose leaf tea from Sencha Tea Bar today!
]]>If you are looking for the best loose leaf tea for weight loss, green tea tops the list, particularly when it is consumed as part of a balanced diet and regular exercise routine. This tea boosts metabolism which helps contribute to weight loss. The faster the metabolism, the faster fat burning occurs.
Green tea also contains caffeine and catechins, a flavonoid. Both together can increase metabolism and promote fat loss, contributing to modest weight reduction.
The main antioxidant in green tea is EGCG, which consists of properties that fight against obesity. This antioxidant maintains healthy levels of norepinephrine, fat-burning hormones that help the body break down and send more fat in the bloodstream to produce energy. It also functions as a natural appetite suppressant, helping to promote weight loss.
Green tea provides a caffeine boost that helps provide energy before a workout, stimulating the nervous system which can energize you for workouts and promote the burning of more fat.
Unsweetened, brewed tea has very few calories. Green teas paired with a calorie-controlled diet and exercise can enhance the potential to eliminate stubborn fat.
Get your Sencha green tea today!
]]>Black tea leaves are subjected to a thorough oxidation process, where the cells inside the tea leaves are highly exposed to oxygen. It is thought that this higher exposure to oxidation provides the tea with some additional benefits not possessed by green tea, which only undergoes partial oxidation, as do oolong teas.
Many teas have antioxidants called polyphenols that provide significant protection against various chronic diseases. One group of polyphenols exclusive to black tea is called theaflavins. During the oxidation process, theaflavins develop about 3 to 6 percent of the polyphenols in black tea.
Research has discovered that drinking black tea regularly can offer the follow benefits, among others:
Black tea is heart friendly. The theaflavins in this tea help bring down cholesterol and blood pressure. The flavonoids in black tea can contribute to a reduction in heart disease. Black tea, including Pearl black tea, can contribute to lower blood pressure and help prevent cardiovascular events such as stroke or heart attack and death connected to heart disease.
Black tea contains about 50% of the caffeine of coffee. It also contains L-theanine, an amino acid. This amino acid along with caffeine helps with focus and alertness. The addition of L-theanine in black tea generates a more stable and long-term energy than the jittery energy offered by coffee. Enhanced motor function and memory are common benefits from drinking black tea.
Stroke happens when a blockage occurs in the blood vessels that transport blood to the brain. Drinking black tea on a regular basis has the potential to reduce the risk of stroke.
Drinking black tea without the addition of sweetener can lower blood glucose levels and enhance the ability of the body to manage sugar. In normal and pre-diabetic adults, black tea enhances blood sugar levels immediately after meals.
Order the best black tea from Sencha Tea Bar today!
]]>This loose leaf tea consists of a bud and three or four lustrous, tender, soft leaves. The leaves are rolled tightly on the stem into glossy, dark green, round shapes. As with all oolong teas, Ali Shan tea is semi-oxidized. Due to its minimal oxidation, it has a greener appearance than some other oolongs, approaching the appearance of green teas that undergo no oxidation. ..
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Ali Shan, just as with other oolong teas, contains antioxidants, an abundance of minerals such as selenium, zinc, and more, vitamins C and E, and caffeine.
Some of the important benefits of Ali Shan tea include:
This tea assists with the digestive process. With its combination of caffeine and polyphenols, Ali Shan tea accelerates metabolism, which can contribute to weight loss and also help alleviate painful indigestion and acid reflux.
Ali Shan tea can help promote cardiovascular health and prevent heart disease. The minerals and antioxidants in tea instruct the body to break apart fat that accumulates in the blood, which helps decrease LDL (bad cholesterol) levels.
The vitamins and minerals in Ali Shan tea can help to constantly fight against inflammation and infection. With a boost to the immune system, you can increase recovery time and prevent disease. This tea can start defeating bacteria as soon as it enters your mouth, aiding in the prevention of tooth decay.
Rich in antioxidants, Ali Shan tea can help the body fight against harmful free radicals that result from pollutants in the environment. It can give your skin a young and fresh appearance.
The Taiwanese oolong tea contains caffeine, a stimulating substance that contributes to focus and brain alertness. Since the caffeine in this tea is released more gradually into the bloodstream than the caffeine in coffee, it tends to last longer, assisting with memory and other mental activity.
At the same time, this tea contains L-theanine, and an amino acid which calms and relaxes the nerves. It can help the brain remain focused without producing the jitteriness that sometimes results from consuming coffee with caffeine.
Check out the Ali Shan tea and the rest of the collection at Sencha Tea Bar now!
]]>However, you should not miss out on the loose leaf tea experience. It may seem extra, but the rewards are well worth it. The best loose leaf tea offers a richer flavor and aroma and contains more nutrients than bagged teas.
Read on to find out how you can start enjoying loose leaf tea and the health benefits that come with it.Loose leaf tea and tea bags come from the same source: Camellia Sinensis — the tea plant. The main difference between them is in how they are processed and packaged.
Bagged teas contain processed tea leaves that are cut into small pieces and packed into a tea bag, often including the dust or fannings of broken tea leaves. The heavy processing of tea leaves for bagged teas results in less flavor and lower potency.
Meanwhile, loose leaf tea is made of whole leaves harvested and left to dry. The minimal processing helps preserve the tea leaves’ original flavor, aroma, and nutritional qualities. The whole leaves are usually packaged in tins or parchment bags.
Here at Sencha Tea Bar — your one-stop loose leaf tea shop — we suggest starting with classic teas. Here are a few of our best-sellers that we think will be great for your first cup:
Try them all to find your favorite!
Before you start, prepare the following items:
Once you have all your tools, follow these steps to make a perfect cup of loose leaf tea:
You need to mix the right amount of loose leaf tea with water. The amount of loose tea you need depends on your personal preference. We suggest using one teaspoon of tea leaves for every eight ounces of water.
Different types of teas require different temperatures. Here are some examples:
The longer you steep your tea, the stronger the flavor will be. Here are some recommended steeping times for different types of teas:
There are two ways you can strain your tea:
After that, all that’s left to do is enjoy it! Many people drink their tea as it is. However, you can add sugar, milk, honey, or other flavorings, if you like.
Frequent consumption of loose leaf tea can provide plenty of health benefits. It contains high levels of antioxidants — such as catechins, flavonoids, and polyphenols — which help fight free radicals in the body that cause cell damage and various diseases.
Here are other significant benefits of drinking loose leaf tea regularly:
Loose leaf tea helps decrease bad cholesterol and reduce fat accumulation in the arteries. It can also lower the risk of contracting specific cardiovascular diseases.
Moreover, loose leaf tea contains theaflavins and polyphenols, which can help decrease blood pressure levels. It also has protective properties that can minimize the risk of hypertension.
Loose leaf tea can have substantial positive effects on the brain. Its high caffeine content can help increase mental focus, concentration, and alertness. It can also help increase energy levels, further enhancing mental clarity.
Loose leaf tea can also help improve a person’s mood. It can lower anxiety and stress, induce calm and relaxation, and improve sleep quality. This is because of the theanine content in tea leaves that helps reduce cortisol levels, the stress hormone.
Loose leaf tea can also help you lose weight. The polyphenols in the tea help enhance the body’s metabolism by increasing energy expenditure, leading to improved fat burning and faster weight loss.
It’s also perfect for maintaining weight. It helps lower body fat content by supporting fat oxidation or breaking down fatty acids. The catechins in the tea also help prevent fat accumulation in the body.
Loose leaf tea helps improve dental health. It has natural fluoride and catechin that helps fight plaque and bacteria that cause cavities, tooth decay, and other oral diseases.
Loose leaf tea also has anti-inflammatory properties that strengthen the bones and reduce the risk of bone-related diseases. Frequent tea drinkers have high bone mineral density, indicating that they have strong and healthy bones.
Loose leaf tea is not only rich in flavor, aroma, and nutrients, but making it is also artistic and therapeutic. Plus, drinking it daily provides plenty of health benefits that can improve your overall well-being.
We offer an extensive selection of premium loose-leaf teas, abundant in taste and health benefits. If you’d like a more flavorful and healthier way to enjoy tea, buy loose leaf tea from Sencha Tea Bar today!
]]>If you want a recommendation, green tea and black tea are great options. These teas are among the most popular, and you can never go wrong with either choice. Read on to learn more about how these teas differ, their health benefits, and where you can purchase the best black tea and best green tea.
Black tea is currently the most consumed tea in the United States, while green tea comes in second place. However, what makes a consumer choose one tea over the other? Here are the main distinctions between green tea and black tea that influence consumer choice.
Both green tea and black tea are made from the leaves and buds of Camellia sinensis plants. However, they are processed differently. After being harvested, green tea leaves are immediately heated up, thus preventing oxidation. In contrast, oxidation is facilitated in black tea processing when the leaves are left exposed to the air after harvest and are only subjected to heat later on.
After being processed, the teas are ready for consumption. Green tea is typically consumed without any add-ons. Occasionally, a hint of lemon zest is squeezed in for some contrast. Black tea is prepared differently. Often milk, honey, or sugar are added for a richer flavor.
Regarding flavor, the procedures of how the teas are made impact their taste. Due to less oxidation, green tea provides a more natural taste. It is also lighter and less bitter. In contrast, black tea has a stronger and darker flavor because of oxidation.
Aside from flavor, color is an obvious difference between the two teas. The best green tea preserves its natural green color since its tea leaves are exposed to air less. Meanwhile, the best black tea gets its darker shade from the fermentation process it undergoes.
Caffeine levels are something consumers often look at when choosing a beverage. One cup of green tea contains around thirty milligrams of caffeine. In contrast, a single cup of black tea yields up to fifty milligrams. However, both of these teas have less than an average coffee cup, which has around a hundred milligrams of caffeine.
While there are differences between green tea and black tea, both beverages share an extensive array of health benefits.
Caffeine is a natural stimulant that heightens alertness, reaction time, and concentration by blocking out your body’s inhibitory neurotransmitter. Consumption of moderate amounts of this stimulant is thus beneficial in boosting cognition. Green tea and black tea contain just enough caffeine to produce these positive effects.
Moreover, the caffeine found in these teas contains L-theanine, which is an amino acid that helps moderate mood and keeps you relaxed. It also facilitates the production of dopamine and serotonin, which are hormones that promote mental rejuvenation.
Black and green teas are better than alternative beverages like coffee, especially since the latter lacks L-theanine and contains more caffeine that can cause problems like faster heart rate.
Speaking of heart, both black and green teas are proven to improve cardiovascular health. People who regularly drink either tea are around 20% less likely to suffer from a heart attack. Moreover, the chances of stroke are reduced by over 30%.
This is because green and black tea contains an abundance of antioxidants, particularly polyphenols. These antioxidants protect the heart and improve blood circulation. These substances also lower blood pressure and prevent obesity since they reduce bad cholesterol and triglyceride production.
Almost all the trillions of bacteria in your body live in your digestive tract, and some of them can cause gut issues. Drinking green and black tea can help you avoid these problems, and the polyphenols found in these teas promote good bacteria growth.
These microbes aid in digestion and prevent the build-up of noxious substances that can damage your gut. They can also improve your overall immunity and resistance to ailments like inflammatory bowel disease and type 2 diabetes. The antimicrobial properties in black tea are likewise capable of repairing damaged digestive tract linings.
Neither green nor black tea is medically proven as a viable cancer treatment. However, there are studies indicating that these beverages can at least prevent the formation or fast growth of certain types of cancer.
Regular tea drinking has been heavily suggested to reduce the risk of oral, gastrointestinal, ovarian, lung, breast, thyroid, and endometrial cancer. This is thanks to antioxidants like epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) found in green teas and theaflavins that are abundant in black teas.
Green tea and black tea diverge in certain areas like color, flavor, and caffeine levels. However, they are strikingly similar in terms of health benefits. From enhancing brain function to helping prevent the growth and spread of cancer, both delicious beverages are great for your body.
If you want the best green tea and best black tea on the market, Sencha Tea Bar is the place to find the very best tea to buy – place your order today!
]]>Most types of tea come from the Camellia sinensis or the tea plant. What makes each type of tea unique is the process used to produce it, including harvesting, fermentation, oxidation, and drying.
Whether you are a passionate tea drinker or just starting to explore the different types of teas, it’s crucial to know what these delicious drinks can do for you.
Two of the most popular tea options are sencha green tea and oolong tea. Let’s take a closer look at these two teas and determine the best option for you.
Oolong tea, pronounced as “wu-long” tea, has been around for thousands of years. Aside from being a favorite beverage in China, it was also widely used in traditional Chinese medicine.
This particular tea is partially oxidized, meaning it has undergone a unique process that sets it apart from other teas. Where green tea is unoxidized and black tea is fully oxidized, oolong tea falls somewhere in between.
Oolong tea is derived from older tea leaves. Its flavor depends on the oxidation level, ranging from light and fruity to dark and roasted. This manipulation makes different varieties of oolong tea, each with a unique flavor profile.
Oolong tea not only delivers an exquisite flavor but also offers plenty of health benefits. Being semi-oxidized, oolong tea is much richer in antioxidants than other tea types. These antioxidants, such as polyphenols and flavonoids, can help combat free radicals that cause damage to the body.
Regular consumption of oolong tea can improve your overall health in many ways, including:
A remarkable benefit of drinking oolong tea is its positive effect on blood sugar levels. Frequent consumption can help improve the body’s insulin sensitivity and reduce glucose levels in specific individuals. It is also directly associated with the significantly reduced risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D).
Oolong tea is excellent for people trying to manage their weight. It can aid with fat oxidation or the breakdown of fatty acids, which is beneficial when aiming to maintain a lower body fat content.
Oolong tea can also contribute to the prevention of fatty liver and obesity. This is because it contains catechins, a type of antioxidant that can help reduce fat accumulation in the body.
Oolong tea is found to reduce the risk of certain cardiovascular diseases. It helps lower cholesterol levels and decreases fat accumulation in the arteries, which can lead to improved cardiovascular health.
Additionally, oolong tea can significantly reduce the risk of hypertension. It contains antioxidants, such as polyphenols and theaflavins, which can help lower blood pressure levels.
Sencha green tea is the most popular type of tea in Japan. It is made from the young leaves and top buds of the Camellia sinensis plant and is steamed and rolled right after harvest to prevent oxidation.
Because sencha tea is unoxidized, it usually has a light yellow or light green color. It is also known for its sweet and grassy flavor, which can vary based on the growing region and season. Being unoxidized also helps sencha tea retain most of its natural antioxidants, making it one of the most healthy and beneficial teas available.
Sencha matcha is another specific variety of green tea. These two are often confused with each other, but they are distinct. Matcha is also made from the young leaves of the tea plant, but they are ground into a fine powder.
Aside from being delicious and refreshing, sencha tea has many health benefits. Since it didn’t undergo oxidation, it has more antioxidants that can help boost immunity and fight off free radicals. These antioxidants are also known to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Here are other excellent benefits of consuming sencha green tea regularly.
Drinking sencha tea can help increase energy expenditure levels and improve the body’s metabolism. This can result in enhanced burning of fats and overall weight loss, making it a favorite after-meal drink for people trying to lose weight. It can also help prevent and decrease fat accumulation in the body.
Sencha tea also has antibacterial properties that can help prevent dental decay. Polyphenols, catechins, and flavonoids from this green tea have been found to reduce the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, which can minimize the risk of tooth decay and other oral diseases. Sencha tea can also help inhibit acid production, improving overall dental health.
Sencha tea also has significant effects on brain function. It is rich in caffeine, which can improve alertness, focus, and concentration. It can also help boost energy levels. It is abundant in L-theanine, which helps reduce stress and anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve sleep. Regular consumption of sencha tea is also linked to improved memory and attention.
While oolong and sencha tea come from the same plant, they differ in flavor profile, caffeine content, oxidation level, and health benefits.
Depending on the production, oolong tea can have a more robust and complex flavor ranging from sweet to fruity or flowery. It also contains higher levels of caffeine than other tea types, improving alertness and energy.
Meanwhile, sencha green tea has a lighter, grassy, sweet taste. It is also unoxidized, which means it has higher antioxidants and nutrient levels. It has less caffeine, which is perfect for people with caffeine sensitivities.
You can choose to try either or select both options to get the best of both worlds. No matter what, these two tea options will surely provide you with loads of health benefits.
Oolong and sencha teas are two of the most popular types of tea worldwide. While they come from the same plant, they offer different flavors and benefits.
Ultimately, choosing which tea to consume depends on your needs and preferences. No matter which tea you prefer, you can expect to enjoy a delicious and refreshing beverage with a variety of health benefits.
Try them both to find out which option works best for you, order your oolong, sencha or sencha matcha from Sencha Tea Bar, now!
]]>If you're a tea lover looking for a delicious and healthy beverage, you might want to consider trying vanilla oolong tea. This tea is made by blending the delicate and floral notes of oolong tea with the sweet and creamy flavor of vanilla, creating a unique and delicious taste profile that is sure to delight your taste buds. But that's not all, vanilla oolong tea also provides numerous health benefits, making it a great option for anyone looking to improve their overall well-being.
The taste profile of vanilla oolong tea is characterized by its delicate and floral notes, which are complemented by the sweet and creamy flavor of vanilla. This combination creates a unique and delicious flavor that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth without the added sugar and calories. The oolong tea used in this blend is carefully selected to provide a high-quality and delicious tea that is perfect for any time of the day. Whether you're looking for a relaxing evening drink or a morning pick-me-up, vanilla oolong tea is the perfect choice.
In addition to its delicious taste, vanilla oolong tea also provides numerous health benefits. Here are just a few of the ways that this tea can improve your overall well-being:
One of the key benefits of vanilla oolong tea is its ability to aid in weight loss. Oolong tea has been shown to boost metabolism, which can help your body burn more calories, even at rest. This can help you reach your weight loss goals more quickly and effectively. (Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3614197/)
Vanilla oolong tea also supports heart health. Oolong tea is rich in antioxidants, which help protect your heart from oxidative stress and damage. Additionally, this tea has been shown to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. (Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5413815/)
Vanilla oolong tea is also great for boosting the immune system. The antioxidants and other nutrients in this tea can help to protect your body from disease and illness, while also supporting the overall health of your immune system. (Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4834223/)
Another great benefit of vanilla oolong tea is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. This tea contains a natural compound called L-theanine, which has been shown to have a calming effect on the mind and body. Drinking a cup of vanilla oolong tea can help you feel more relaxed and less stressed, even in the face of a busy day. (Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3657210/)
There are many great places to purchase vanilla oolong tea, but if you're looking for a high-quality and delicious option, we recommend Sencha Tea Bar. They offer a delicious Vanilla Oolong tea, which is made with a blend of high-quality oolong tea and natural vanilla flavor. You can purchase this tea directly from their website at the following link: Shop Vanilla Oolong Tea
Vanilla oolong tea is a delicious and healthy beverage that offers numerous benefits for your overall well-being. From its ability to aid in weight loss and support heart health, to its ability to boost the immune system and reduce stress and anxiety, this tea is a great choice for anyone
Mint tea, also known as peppermint tea, is a popular beverage enjoyed all around the world. Its cool and refreshing flavor, combined with its numerous health benefits, makes it a go-to drink for many people. In this blog, we will delve into the world of mint tea, exploring its history, benefits, and preparation methods, as well as providing you with some of the best places to purchase mint tea.
Mint tea has been enjoyed for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. It was originally used for medicinal purposes, with the Greeks using it to help with digestive issues, and the Romans using it as a breath freshener. However, it wasn't until the 17th century that mint tea became a popular beverage in Europe, and it has been a staple drink ever since.
Mint tea is not just a delicious drink, it is also packed full of health benefits. Some of the most notable benefits include:
Aids digestion: Mint tea has a natural soothing effect on the digestive system, helping to reduce bloating, gas, and indigestion.
Reduces headaches: The menthol in mint tea has a cooling effect on the head, helping to reduce headaches and migraines.
Boosts the immune system: Mint tea is rich in antioxidants, which help to protect the body against damage from free radicals and boost the immune system.
Relieves stress and anxiety: The scent of mint is known to have a calming effect on the body, helping to reduce stress and anxiety levels.
Promotes clear breathing: The menthol in mint tea helps to clear nasal passages, making it a great drink for those with colds or allergies.
Preparation of mint tea is a simple process that can be done in just a few steps.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Best Places to Purchase Mint Tea
If you're looking to buy mint tea, there are many great options available. Here are some of the best places to purchase mint tea:
Sencha Tea Bar offers a wide range of tea blends, including a delicious Moroccan mint tea. This tea is made with high-quality peppermint leaves, which are carefully selected to provide a refreshing and invigorating flavor.
In addition to their Moroccan Mint tea, Sencha Tea Bar also offers a Slim Mint tea, which is a great option for those looking to promote weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. This tea is made with a blend of mint and green tea, providing a delicious and healthy option.
For those looking for a unique and refreshing flavor, Sencha Tea Bar offers a Rainforest Mint tea, which is made with a blend of organic mint leaves. This tea is perfect for any time of the day and provides a unique and invigorating experience.
Mint tea is a delicious and refreshing beverage that offers numerous health benefits. From its ability to aid digestion and reduce headaches, to its ability to boost the immune system and relieve stress and anxiety, mint tea is a great drink for anyone looking to improve their health and well-being. You're sure to find the perfect mint tea for you.
]]>Tea is more than just a comforting warm drink, though. For centuries, the best black tea and best green tea has been used in traditional medicine, particularly in Asia and has long been linked to a healthy way of living.
There are many medicinal properties and potential health benefits associated with drinking tea, from lowering heart disease risk to even cancer. Another great health benefit linked to drinking tea is boosting your weight loss efforts.
One of the simplest ways that drinking tea can aid weight loss is by being a low-calorie drink. Simply swapping a weekly or daily latte, mocha, or juice with plain, freshly brewed tea allows you to cut out a huge number of calories.
Popular drinks that are heavy with cream, sugar, and other flavorings can have as many as 520 calories! In comparison, plain brewed hot and iced tea selections have zero calories.Drinking tea can also help you stay hydrated. If you don’t add sugar, milk, or cream and enjoy tea on its own, that means you’re also essentially drinking water — with better, all-natural flavor and aroma.
More importantly, tea also contains various antioxidants that can further help with losing weight. Depending on what type of tea you drink, you can gain benefits such as increased metabolism or improved gut health.
Two of the most popular types of tea are black tea and green tea. Although they are processed or prepared differently, black tea and green tea both come from the same tea plant, Camellia sinensis.
These aren’t the only qualities that black and green tea share. While the two types of tea may differ, they also provide similar health benefits, including:
Although black and green tea both contain powerful antioxidants, they help with weight loss in slightly different ways. This is because the groups of antioxidants prevalent in black tea are different from those found in green tea.
In terms of weight loss and general health benefits, black tea can often be overshadowed by its green counterpart. However, drinking black tea is just as helpful when it comes to reaching your weight loss goals and achieving better overall health.
Black tea contains theaflavins. These are a subgroup of polyphenols, which are a kind of protective antioxidants. This type of polyphenols are only formed during the prolonged fermentation or oxidation process required to make black tea.
According to a 2018 review, theaflavins have fat-reducing benefits by influencing your metabolism. Researchers noted that theaflavins helped suppress intestinal fat absorption in an animal study.
The best black tea may also positively affect your gut microbiome. In another study, findings indicate that because black tea molecules are too big to be absorbed directly by the liver, they remain inside our intestines. This then helps boost the population of good gut bacteria, which helps the metabolism.
Although further research is still needed, available data indicates black tea can be a good weight loss aid. One study showed that participants who drank black tea on a regular basis over a three-month period saw improvements in their body weight and body fat distribution. It not only helped boost weight loss; it also reduced waist circumference.
The best green tea is not only popular as a healthy beverage but is also one of the most popular and effective types of teas for weight loss. There are also more studies and accepted evidence to support green tea as an effective weight loss aid.
Drinking green tea can help you lose weight thanks to its high catechins content. Catechins are another kind of antioxidants — particularly epigallocatechin gallate or EGCG. This type of catechin offers several benefits, including boosting your metabolic rate and promoting fat breakdown.
Research shows that EGCG can inhibit the breakdown of norepinephrine, a fat-burning hormone. The more norepinephrine in the body, the more your body can break down fat. EGCG is also suggested to have a synergistic effect with caffeine, which is also found in green tea. Together, the two work to promote greater fat breakdown.
The EGCG catechins in green tea are also linked to better fat burning during exercise and rest. Findings show that individuals who took green tea extract supplements before working out were able to burn 17% more fat.
Other studies have linked EGCG to higher metabolic rates — the rate at which your body burns calories. Green tea extract or EGCG supplements were shown to have helped boost metabolic rates by 3-4%, or even as high as 8% in other findings.
If you’re looking for the best black tea or the most delicious, best loose leaf teas to add to your weight loss diet, you need to try pu-erh, Darjeeling, or lapsang souchong teas. If you want the best green tea for weight loss instead, then sencha and gyokuro green teas are wonderful options.
In any case, black tea and green tea are both great options if you’re looking for tea to support your weight loss efforts. In most cases, the choice of which one to drink would depend on personal preferences.
For example, green tea is preferable if you are sensitive to caffeine, as it contains a lower amount. On the reverse side, if you need caffeine to stay awake or remain alert, then black tea is the better option.
Buy some of the best loose leaf tea from Sencha Tea Bar, now!
]]>There is nothing like a cup of green tea to calm the senses. Thanks to the small amount of caffeine it contains, green tea benefits you by delivering a crucial boost to drive you to end the day.
Green tea is made from Camellia sinensis leaves and originated in China. The difference between green tea and black and oolong teas is that green tea leaves are not left to wither, ferment and oxidize as long as black and oolong. It is often combined with flavor additives, such as jasmine flowers, orange peels and tropical, dried fruits.
With so many flavors and varieties to choose from, green tea has become one of the most popular varieties of teas consumed in the United States. In fact, is it one of the top three most popular tea varieties in the world, with 1.7 tons of green tea manufactured each year.
Want to reap the benefits of an earthy cup of tea? Check out our collection of the best green teas right here.
Green tea boasts a great variety of health benefits in addition to being a delicious and popular drink. That's why it's been used for centuries in traditional Indian and Chinese medicine.
We’ll share seven green tea benefits here.
Heart disease is one of the top killers in the U.S. About 610,000 people die of heart disease in the United States every year. That’s 25 percent of the population killed by heart disease, a mostly preventable illness.
Although green tea isn’t the only thing that you need to be doing to protect yourself from heart disease, it can be part of a broader strategy. In a study surveying 1,371 men over the age of 40, regular consumption of green tea decreased the presence of several important markers which predicted heart disease (1). The study showed green tea lowered high blood pressure and reduced bad LDL cholesterol — a common risk factor of heart disease.
In an even larger study of 40,530 people in Japan, these results were replicated amongst tea drinkers. The scientists in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that people who regularly consumed at least one cup of green tea a day died at far lower rates from cardiovascular disease than those who consumed less than one cup a day. The researchers recommend incorporating the small amount of one cup of green tea a day instead of coffee or soda for a healthier heart (2).
Green tea catechins are also known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help eliminate free radicals and prevent oxidative stress.These anti-inflammatory properties help to decrease inflammation in blood vessels and arteries, potentially lowering blood pressure and lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease including heart attack.
If you’re feeling a bit heavier than you’d like to be, you’re not alone. Obesity is a major problem in North America, more than two in every three people are overweight (3). Being overweight is hugely problematic, linked with nearly every severe lifestyle health issue, including heart disease, stroke and diabetes (4).
The good news is that obesity is preventable and is largely dependent on what you eat. Green tea can aid in weight loss when added to your diet. Green tea extract contains an amino acid known as L-theanine, which helps to slow the absorption of caffeine. This can result in longer-lasting energy boosts which may help maximize your workouts. Green tea supplements are wildly popular in the weight loss industry and may help maintain body weight.
In a 2010 review, a researcher concluded that green tea helps contribute to fat burning by increasing the body’s metabolism (5). Although the researcher pointed out that some ethnicities might be more receptive to green tea’s ability to burn fat than others, it still stands that green tea has the potential to help you burn fat. This is due to catechins, a compound found in green tea. When present in the blood, catechins enhance the body’s fat oxidation and burn (6). More importantly, green tea is a healthy stand-in for other calorie-rich drinks and foods. Simply swapping soda or snack for a cup of green tea can help with weight loss by reducing the number of calories you are consuming.
As we age, bone health becomes more and more of a problem. Osteoporosis, which is a severe weakening of bones in the body, is due to a metabolic imbalance which causes a slower formation of new bone tissue. Animal studies have strongly suggested that green tea can encourage the formation of new bones. In these animal studies, the bones showed a higher bone mass, volume and thickness (7).
Another study showed that people who drank tea had higher bone density than who did not (8). So although the jury is still out on whether green tea improves bone health, your chances of strengthening your bones through green tea consumption are very fair.
Catechins in green tea could help protect you against glaucoma and other eye diseases. Catechins are in a group of antioxidants, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, lutein and zeaxanthin, which help protect the delicate tissues of the eye from cell damage. Catechins are absorbed by the eye’s tissue and are recruited to fight issues which may lead to vision impairment or even blindness.
Green tea has long been known as a cancer preventive. Research demonstrates that drinking at least three cups of green tea is effective in delaying processes that lead to mutations and changes in cells which cause them to be cancerous (9). This delays the onset of cancer by several years. The study results were most prominent in certain types of cancer including breast cancer and prostate cancer. There is good epidemiological evidence that also shows that those who drink green tea are less likely to die of cancer. Researchers point to the presence of the antioxidant epigallocatechin gallate or EGCG for the main actor behind these green tea benefits.
According to the National Cancer Institute, several studies and a meta-analysis have shown that drinking green tea may be beneficial in preventing cancer by reducing the incidence of oxidative stress (10).
There may be something in green tea that helps us keep our wits sharp as we grow old. In animal studies, green tea consumption by mice significantly slowed memory regression. Other studies also demonstrated how green tea was able to improve spatial cognition and learning ability (11). This suggests that green tea can place your brain at lower risk of developing memory impairments such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson's disease.
Keeping your blood sugar at a reasonable level can be difficult. It’s easy to develop insulin resistance and even diabetes with all the sugar in our food today. Green tea may help your blood manage glycemic loads and manage your blood sugar levels.
In the immediate future, this means more constant energy levels. In the long term, this could mean preventing diabetes. In a study performed in Japan, people who consumed six or more cups of green tea saw a stunning 33 percent risk reduction of developing Type 2 diabetes (12). The evidence is increasingly pointing to the possibility of green tea being a prevention strategy for diabetes. Although six cups of green tea may be too much for some, researchers in these studies tended to see benefits by incorporating as little as two cups of green tea per day (13).
Green tea is an extremely popular variety of tea and is widely available in bag and loose leaf tea form. When it comes to green tea, you don’t want to steep the bags or leaves in water that is too hot. Unlike black tea, green tea leaves steeped in water that’s over 195 F will result in an unpleasantly bitter brew. Instead, let your water come to boiling and remove from the heat. Let the water sit for 45 to 60 seconds. This should help the water achieve the ideal temperature for green tea, which is 175 F to 185 F. You can also purchase kettles that heat water to precise temperature ranges, which can ensure a pleasant green tea every time.
In 1191, the Japanese Zen priest Eisai wrote “Kissa Yojoki” (The Book of Tea). This book describes much of the history, preparation and growth of green tea. Most interestingly, Eisai describes how drinking green tea positively affected vital organs, including the heart, liver and lungs.
We are now starting to validate some of the ancient wisdom through modern science. Before all of the results are in, it seems like a smart move to follow this ancient knowledge and incorporate green tea into your daily regimen to start reaping the positive effects right away. Drink tea today to enjoy delicious flavors and feel your best.
Green tea is one of the healthiest and most well-researched types of tea.It has less caffeine than a cup of coffee and may offer protective effects against a host of illnesses. While the beverage may offer some short-term health benefits, most research shows that consistent consumption leads to better benefits. Pour yourself a cup of tea and toast to your health with vibrant green tea leaves or green tea bags.
1. https://www.bmj.com/content/310/6981/693
2. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/203337
3. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/obesity-prevention-source/obesity-trends/obesity-rates-worldwide/
4. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/obesity-prevention-source/obesity-consequences/
5. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0031938410000703#!
6. https://academic.oup.com/jn/article/139/2/264/4750912
7. https://www-sciencedirect-com.libaccess.lib.mcmaster.ca/science/article/pii/S1043661811000909
8. https://www-tandfonline-com.libaccess.lib.mcmaster.ca/doi/abs/10.1080/07315724.2002.10719187
9. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com.libaccess.lib.mcmaster.ca/doi/10.1002/biof.5520130109/full
10.https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/diet/tea-fact-sheet
11. https://link-springer-com.libaccess.lib.mcmaster.ca/article/10.1007%2Fs10522-006-9036-8
]]>Rooibos tea (pronounced ROY-boss) is less well known than its true tea cousins, but it has excellent health benefits and a delicate flavor that is sweet and aromatic. Rooibos tea contains antioxidants, enzymes, and chemical compounds that help skin look youthful, reduce inflammation that causes pain, and prevent serious illness.
Rooibos tea, also known as red tea, is unique in that it is grown mainly on the African continent and contains polyphenols such as aspalathin that are not found in any other foods. With powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, drinking a cup of rooibos tea every day can help you stay healthy.
When ordering red tea, you may be surprised to find that sometimes you end up with a black tea instead of rooibos tea depending what region you are in. This is because in China, the term red tea is used to describe traditional black tea. For all intents and purposes, red tea in the Western world refers to rooibos tea. Rooibos tea does not contain any leaves from the Camellia sinensis tea plant so it is not a true tea.
Rooibos tea—also known as red bush tea and African red tea—is an herbal tea made using the leaves of the Aspalathus linearis plant. Rooibos means “red bush” in Afrikaans and references the rich, deep crimson of rooibos tea. Rooibos tea is made using the long needle leaves of the plant, which are green when still growing on the plant and turn red during the fermentation process.
The Aspalathus linearis plant is native to South Africa and like most teas, contains high levels of polyphenols that provide an array of health benefits. Rooibos is grown mainly in the mountainous Cederberg region of South Africa in the Western Cape province. There are two types of rooibos tea: red rooibos and green rooibos. Red rooibos tea is oxidized and tastes more similar to black tea and oolong tea. Green rooibos tea is unoxidized and has similar flavor characteristics to green tea.
Rooibos tea has a sweet, nutty flavor that is often compared to hibiscus tea and earthy notes that are similar to yerba mate infusions. Rooibos is also described as having hints of caramel, vanilla and a smoky essence likened to tobacco.
Rooibos has a light mouth feel that is subtle and not overpowering. It's often described as having a neutral, yet sweet flavor profile that can be enhanced with slices of lemon or a dash of honey. It brews into a reddish-brown hue as visually stunning as it is tasty.
Rooibos tea is also caffeine-free, making it a good beverage at any time of the day. Thanks to its high concentration of vitamins and polyphenols, rooibos tea offers not only delicious taste, but also helps to keep you healthy. Rooibos tea can be brewed as a hot tea or as an iced tea.
Rooibos tea contains vital minerals including calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc and alpha hydroxyl acid. As with most true teas and herbal teas, it also contains high levels of vitamin C along with powerful antioxidants such as aspalathin that offer extensive health benefits. Rooibos tea contains polyphenols that help to fight free radicals, keeping your body healthy and ready to tackle the day.
Like green tea and black tea, drinking rooibos tea is a good way to enjoy a delicious beverage without packing on the pounds. Each cup of rooibos tea contains only 2 to 4 calories, so you can drink this delightfully smoky beverage without worrying about ruining your diet. Keep in mind that adding sugar, honey or other sweeteners can rack up the calorie count, so keep additions to a minimum if your goal is to lose weight.
Rooibos tea contains alpha hydroxy acid, which is one of the main ingredients in skin treatments such as chemical peels that you can get at your dermatologist’s office. Not particularly common in foods, alpha hydroxy acid in rooibos tea can aid in your skin care routine and help to reduce wrinkles.
In a 28-day clinical study, a formula of tea and rooibos demonstrated almost a 10 percent improvement in the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Rooibos tea offers a soothing effect, thereby reducing irritation and redness resulting in more even-toned skin. Rooibos tea also contains zinc, which has shown potential to help treat common skin conditions such as eczema and acne (1).
Rooibos tea contains superoxide dismutase, which has anti-aging properties and helps to slow down the development of wrinkles. This enzyme works to produce healthy skin cells that keep you looking young longer. It also works alongside other antioxidants in rooibos tea to fight free radicals that can accelerate the aging process. While more research is needed, there is evidence that drinking a cup or two of rooibos tea per day can keep skin looking even and youthful.
Rooibos tea contains antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce inflammation and feelings of aches and pains. The anti-spasmodic compounds in rooibos tea can also help to alleviate abdominal pain such as stomach cramps by activating potassium ions throughout the body (2).
By reducing inflammation, rooibos tea can aid in treating the painful symptoms of arthritis. Rooibos tea is high in vitamin C, which further helps to repair collagen and connective tissue in the joints.
This South African brew contains a bioactive flavonoid known as chrysoeriol, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Working as a bronchodilator, rooibos tea can help relieve the feelings of wheezing and coughing caused by allergic rhinitis and asthma (3).
Another flavonoid called Quercetin helps to prevent allergies from being triggered in the first place. Quercetin essentially blocks mast cells, which are responsible for releasing histamine, the main element that triggers an allergic response (4).
In essence, rooibos tea works as an antihistamine, without the drowsy side effects that come along with many of similar medications. While not a replacement for advanced allergy treatments such an inhaled corticosteroids and high doses of antihistamines, drinking a few cups of rooibos tea every day can limit your body's over-reactive immune response that triggers allergies.
Like true teas and many herbal tisanes, rooibos tea contains minerals such as calcium, manganese and fluoride that help build strong bones. These minerals produce increased activity in osteoblast calls, which are responsible for building strong bone mass (5).
While many teas contain these essential minerals that help protect healthy bones and prevent diseases such as osteoporosis and arthritis, rooibos contains two other compounds that are even more beneficial to bone health. The flavonoids luteolin and orientin, contained in rooibos, have been shown to have the potential to increase mineral content in bones (6).
Many Americans struggle with digestive problems. The increasing incidence of illnesses such as Celiac disease, acid reflux and chronic upset stomach shows no signs of stopping. While many digestive problems can be attributed to a poor diet high in processed foods, there is increasing support for the potential digestive benefits of drinking tea.
Rooibos tea contains several nutrients that are antispasmodic, which help to prevent stomach pains. A study published in the Basic & Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology Journal shows that compounds such as quercetin, orientin and vitexin helped to relax the digestive system and relieve feelings of discomfort. This same study demonstrates that tannins in rooibos tea have the potential to reduce symptoms of diarrhea (7).
Rooibos tea also has beneficial effects for the immune system. It's chock-full of vitamins and minerals that help support immune function and fend off invading pathogens that can make you sick. Rooibos may be effective in eliminating pathogens that cause stomach upset and diarrhea.
Drinking rooibos tea may help to keep diabetes in check or to prevent the onset of Type 2 Diabetes. A 2013 Tokyo animal study showed that polyphenols in rooibos tea work to regulate blood sugar levels and increase glucose tolerance in diabetic mice. Even though rooibos tea won't cure diabetes, it may help decrease insulin resistance and improve symptoms when consumed regularly (8).
Specifically, the polyphenol aspalathin works to increase glucose uptake and suppresses the increase in fasting glucose levels that can lead to blood sugar spikes in diabetic individuals. The mice in this study were given aspalathin in levels similar to those present in rooibos tea for five weeks. The mice were also shown to have lower levels of expression in genes that have been connected to hereditary risks of diabetes.
Rooibos tea is excellent for heart health and helps to keep blood circulation pumping smoothly. Containing the chrysoeriol flavonoid that is a bronchodilator, this compound is also an effective agent for lowering high blood pressure and increasing circulation. The relaxing effects of rooibos tea help to open up blood vessels while antioxidants work to lower bad cholesterol and prevent plaque buildup.
A 2015 Korean study found that the aspalathin that is credited with regulating symptoms of diabetes could also prevent dangerous illnesses such as cardiovascular disease and heart attacks. Aspalathin works to reduce the risk of hypertension through hormone regulation. This polyphenol can also help to prevent vascular inflammation that can restrict blood flow to the heart (9).
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Red rooibos tea is generally safe to drink and has demonstrated little to no side effects. Existing side effects are restricted to certain populations and typically only occur in large doses.
Rooibos tea has demonstrated estrogenic activity, which means it can increase the production of the female hormone, estrogen. While typically nothing to be concerned about, people with breast cancer or other hormone-sensitive diseases may want to consult with a doctor before drinking rooibos tea.
As with many other teas, the antioxidants and chemical compounds of rooibos tea may interfere with medications. Consult your physician before adding rooibos tea to your diet if you are taking any medications. Remember that research is ongoing so using rooibos tea as a replacement for any medications without consultation with medical professionals is not advised.
Rooibos tea can be consumed cold for a refreshing break during the summertime heat, or as a piping hot drink to warm up when you're feeling under the weather or heading in from the cold. Since it contains no caffeine, you can drink rooibos tea before bed and don't have to worry about insomnia.
If you are using a rooibos tea bag, simply brew according to the directions. If you are brewing loose leaf rooibos tea, aim for one heaping tablespoon of leaves for every 8 ounces of water. In between uses, make sure to store tea leaves in a dark, airtight container to preserve the flavor and aroma profiles.
Rooibos tea is best enjoyed using pure or filtered water. Make sure not to use distilled water when brewing tea because it does not allow the flavors to develop properly. Rooibos tea should be brewed using boiling water.
Rooibos tea should be steeped for at least 4 to 5 minutes although some brands recommend steeping up to 10 minutes for greater antioxidant development. You can consume as is or add a splash of milk, honey or sugar for a sweeter flavor.
Rooibos tea shows promise when it comes to treating common ailments such as pain and skin conditions, as well as more serious diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. With a rich, crimson color that is visually pleasing along with a smoky, fruity and subtle flavor profile, drinking rooibos tea is a pleasure. Pour yourself a cup of tea and enjoy a sweet tea experience and reap the health benefits.
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20412217
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25312795
3. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00394-006-0620-0#page-1
4. https://www.drweil.com/vitamins-supplements-herbs/herbs/quercetin/
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26885714
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25488131
7. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1742-7843.2006.pto_507.x
8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23238530
9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25338943
]]>Boba tea, or bubble tea, combines just a few ingredients to create a fun iced tea drink that is a favorite around the world. Small dark tapioca pearls dot the bottom of this beverage while additions of milk, sweeteners, and fruit make these drinks infinitely customizable and unique.
You don't have to head to a fancy tea shop or your local coffeehouse to get your hands on this creamy beverage, however. You can make bubble tea right in your own kitchen without a lot of hassle or ingredients. For all boba recipes, you'll need tapioca pearls. You can find these online or at your local Asian supermarket, or check out our boba tea kits which include instant tapioca pearls. You'll also need a wide boba straw that can accommodate the tapioca pearls when drinking. Check out our easy recipes for homemade boba and enjoy in minutes!
Boba tea is a Taiwanese beverage that incorporates chewy tapioca balls into a tea base. It is more commonly known in Chinese and Hong Kong communities as bubble tea, in Taiwan as pearl milk tea, and in New York and California simply as boba. The beverage draws its roots from Taichung and Tainan—two cities in Taiwan. Boba tea originated in Taiwan and gained popularity there in the 1980s. It's everywhere from Chinatown to Thai street food markets and upscale tea estates. In the last 10 years, this Taiwanese tea has become increasingly popular in Europe and the United States.
The tea drink can be brewed dozens of different ways, but most recipes contain the base ingredients of tea, tapioca pearls, milk, and sweeteners. The tea can also be made iced, hot, or as a slushy.
The tea comes in two main varieties: those with milk and those without. Boba with milk is usually called "bubble milk tea" or "boba milk tea" and is similar to Thai tea. It can be made using regular dairy creamers as well as alternatives such as almond milk, rice milk, and soy milk.
The original Taiwanese boba was a hot beverage made using black tea leaves from Taiwan, tapioca balls, and simple syrup, honey, or condensed milk. The original bubble tea was made using basil seeds of jelly cubes instead of the black tapioca pearls used today. Most tapioca teas are blended with frothy milk to form an exquisitely delightful beverage that's fun for the whole family. Today, the drink is most popularly consumed as a cold drink. It can be found with fresh fruit, artificial fruit flavors, non-dairy creamer, heavy cream, and sweeteners such as ice cream and brown sugar. The tea also features fun toppings including egg pudding, taro, cassava root, passionfruit, aloe, lychee, and grass jelly.
Boba is a wildly popular drink, making it easy to find in mainstream tea chains including Starbucks and Peet's. The wide range of different flavors the tea offers has also resulted in the rise of dedicated bubble tea shops such as Sencha. Our tea shops, located in the Twin Cities and Madion feature dozens of flavor options uniquely hand-crafted bubble tea creations that change seasonally.
Boba drinks are also simple to make so you can create your own bubble tea at home. Here, we've put together a simple boba tea recipe that you can dress-up with additions such as shaved ice, custard, and flavorings or just enjoy the classic flavor as-is. It's naturally gluten-free and doesn't contain any dairy—unless you choose to add additional ingredients.
Learning how to make bubble tea isn't complicated once you get a few key techniques down. The nice thing about boba is that you can cook large batches of tapioca pearls and save for later. That way you always have cooked pearls on hand to make this fun beverage.
Once the pearls are cooked, separate the ones you want to use immediately from the ones you want to store for later. Add sugar syrup such as simple syrup to preserve the extra tapioca pearls. Place them in an airtight container and store at room temperature. Do not store tapioca pearls in the refrigerator or freezer.
Most tapioca starch pearls that you buy at and Asian grocery store or tea shop will come with cooking instructions. In general, you should use about 7 servings of water for every 1 serving of tapioca pearls. The cook time for boba pearls is usually about 10 minutes on high heat. The total time for preparing bubble tea can take anywhere from 40 minutes to one hour if you are cooking the tapioca pearls.
This varies depending on elevation so cook the pearls until they are chewy and soft. To preserve pearls for later use, follow the initial cook time with 30 minutes on medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the pearls from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Start by bringing the water to a rapid boil over high heat. Add the boba pearls to the boiling water and cook for 10 minutes or until soft. To save the cooked tapioca pearls for later, turn down to medium heat and let the pearls cook in the hot water for another 30 minutes.
You need to rinse the tapioca pearls after they are boiled to preserve texture and flavor. Use a fine mesh strainer to strain the pearls before adding them to a small bowl. If you are going to store excess pearls, cool to room temperature before sealing the container. Add in the honey or sugar syrup.
Brew tea using tea bags or loose leaf tea and one cup of water. For black teas, brew between 200 and 212 F. Brew green teas between 160 and 180 F. Let the tea cool to room temperature before adding the pearls.
Add 3 to 4 ice cubes to a tall glass. For larger servings or pitcher-sized amounts, simply quadruple this recipe. Add a whole cup ice to keep the beverage cool in the midday sun if serving at an outdoor brunch. Add flair to your boba tea by garnishing with a slice of lemon. Sip through a wide straw and enjoy the chewy nature of the boba pearls and sweet taste of the tea.
Follow the instructions from the simple boba tea recipe to cook and rinse the tapioca balls.
Brew and add tea in the same way you would for simple boba tea. You can use regular milk or alternatives such as half and half, rice milk, coconut milk, or almond milk. Many boba teas are sweetened with condensed milk. This variety is thicker and more luxurious when it comes to flavor and texture. It is full-bodied and more similar to a shake.
Add ice and serve the boba milk tea in tall glasses
Take your bubble tea to the next level by adding fruit to this popular favorite. The options here are endless. Make mango bubble tea, strawberry bubble tea, or even orange bubble tea. Just find your favorite fruits and follow the recipe below for fruity bubble tea in minutes. You can also substitute fruit juice for real fruit if desired and add ice to make it a smoothie. Want to add some energy to your morning fruit drink? Combine milk and tean to start your day with a fruity burst!
Follow the instructions above to prepare the tapioca pearls.
Combine fruit, honey, milk, tea and ice in a blender or a cocktail shaker.
Pour into a tall glass and add ice. Garnish with a few pieces of fruit or add a mint leaf.
Making tapioca pearl tea at home is easy. This strong tea is sure to delight children and adults alike with its cool flavor and chewy boba beads. Play with flavors and try new fruit infusions to add a little excitement to the standard blends. Try green teas like matcha or classic black teas for a more robust flavor. You can even brew it using Vietnamese chai, oolong tea, and white tea. Different types of sweeteners like creamer affect the tea flavor. Use honey and brown sugar for more earthy flavors. Use sugar syrups if you are brewing old pearls with cold water since granulated white sugars won't dissolve well.
The first time you bite into the chewy texture of cooked boba pearls, you'll fall in love with bubble tea. From dark brown hues to vibrant purples and reds, this tea is a visual delight as well as a tasty treat. Bring the delight of multicolored boba shops into your home with this bubbly beverage. With a short prep time and lots of versatility, add these boba recipes to your cookbook and brew delightful tea to share with friends and family.
Check out our ever-growing selection of boba tea kits! These carefully curated boxes include multiple options for bubble tea flavors as well as instant tapioca pearls that you can have delivered straight to your door. Our unique tea kits are designed by in-house tea experts and cater to a wide spectrum of flavor preferences. Keep an eye out for new creations seasonally!
]]>When you think of tea, you're mind probably goes to a variety of types from peppermint and chamomile to green tea and black tea. Compost tea is very rarely the first thing you think of.
Compost tea gets its name from its dark amber color and because it is 'brewed'. While not technically a tea for humans, compost tea is a healthy elixir that protects and promotes the growth of plants. So while you can't actually drink compost tea, you can use it to keep your plants—including tea plants—healthy and happy.
Compost tea is a liquid organic fertilizer for plants and is usually applied as a foliar spray to plants during times of stress including temperature fluctuations and root damage.
Like true teas and herbal teas, compost tea is nutritionally rich and packed with vitamins and antioxidants. It is also chock full of beneficial microorganisms and other organic materials that promote growth. Like real teas, it's not just what's inside the tea bag that matters. Geographical location and compost composition all affect the quality of a compost tea.
Compost tea is made from broken down organic matter from the compost pile. It can be brewed right at home or purchased at a variety of garden centers. Compost tea is naturally made by compost piles and known as leachate. This byproduct of worm composting and traditional composting forms at the bottom of the compost bin.
Most compost bins aren't designed for easy removal of the leachate. That's why many gardeners choose to brew their compost tea at home. Read on to find out the benefits of compost tea and the best way to start compost tea brewing.
Compost tea is full of nutrients that help your plants grow healthy and quickly. Plants treated with compost tea tend to be hardier and more stress tolerant than other plants.
This liquid fertilizer encourages plants to grow bigger leaves and results in healthier harvests and brighter flowers. The nutrients in compost tea also support higher yields of fruits and vegetables.
Compost tea contains beneficial bacteria that help protect plants from disease. These beneficial microbes are sprayed onto the leaves of plants where they prevent the invasion of harmful pathogens. Compost tea effectively prevents damage caused by blight, fungi, and mold.
One of the best reasons for using compost tea is that you can forgo the toxic and chemical-laden fertilizers. Toxic fertilizers can harm useful gardening creatures such as ladybugs and worms.
These fertilizers can also have negative effects on humans and animals that consume harvested fruits and vegetables. Some traditional fertilizers can also burn plant root systems and leaves. Compost tea offers the same growing powers of toxic fertilizers without the negative effects.
Compost tea is most effective when quality ingredients are used, just like in real teas. Always use well-aged compost when brewing compost tea.
That being said, compost materials that are too old won't contain many nutrients while compost that isn't broken down may contain damaging pathogens that can harm plants.
Aerating the compost tea ensures the mixture will have as many beneficial microbes as possible. The simplest way of aerating compost tea is to stir it occasionally while it is steeping.
Aerated compost tea can also be created using an aquarium pump, air stones, or an air pump.
You can increase the effectiveness of compost tea by adding things like fish emulsion, powdered seaweed, coffee grounds, and worm castings. This helps to increase the nutrient factor of compost tea and boosts plant growth.
Brewing compost tea is straightforward and doesn't take a lot of time. The brewing process can take anywhere from 24 hours to one week depending on how powerful you want your fertilizer to be.
Many compost tea brewers aim for at least 48 hours. The longer the tea brews, the stronger it will be.
1. Fill a 5 gallon bucket about 1/3 full with finished compost material. Make sure to use quality compost for the best results. The compost should consist of fine materials and be rich black or dark brown in color.
2. Use a watering can to fill the rest of the bucket with non-chlorinated water. Rain water, well water, or pond water are typically best. Avoid using tap water.
3. Steep the tea concentrate for 3 to 4 days. Stir the mixture in the morning and evening each day.
4. Strain the tea mixture using a large fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a second five-gallon bucket. You can also use another porous fabric like an old t-shirt, pillowcase, or a burlap sack. Take the solid organic materials and return them to your garden or compost bin.
5. Before applying the tea to garden plants, add water to dilute the tea concentrate. Dilute using a 10:1 ratio of water to tea.
6. Apply as a soil drench or spray directly to plant leaves. For best results, add 1/4 teaspoon of plant-based oil such as vegetable oil or coconut oil to the compost tea when using as a foliar spray.
Brew compost tea at home using organic materials from the compost bin or the worm bin. This liquid fertilizer makes it easy to start organic gardening. It helps promote plant growth and increases harvest yields without having to use toxic chemicals or environmentally damaging fertilizers.
Tea making is fun whether you're brewing a hot cuppa before bedtime or creating a tea concentrate for your garden. Remember to always use quality materials for the best results.
Apply the compost tea to sandy soils, clay soils, or rocky soils to increase nutrient density and make the area more suitable for growing healthy plants. The soil food web will reward you with higher yields thanks to the added nutrients. You can also spray compost tea directly to plant leaves to fend off harmful pathogens and prevent infections. However you decide to use your compost tea, you're sure to have great results.
]]>Iced teas are a great way to explore new flavors and tea recipes if you're getting bored with hot tea. From mint tea blends to Arnold Palmer inspired creations, the flavors of iced tea can help you cool off and feel refreshed in minutes. Whether you're looking for a pick-me-up with powerful matcha green tea or a fruity tea punch featuring blueberries and lemon juice, you're sure to find a delightful flavor in iced tea. Refresh and delight your taste buds with the best iced teas to brew today.
Cold-brew tea is made by infusing tea leaves in cold water rather than boiling water. The steeping time takes several hours instead of several minutes, but cold brewing offers a unique way to brew tasty tea flavors.
Iced tea doesn't have to be just plain old black tea bags and a cup of sugar. The flavor opportunities are endless with fruity notes, floral flavors, and minty hints. Brew a glass of iced tea using your favorite herbal tea blends or discover new flavor inspirations with this list of the best iced teas. Mix things up with sweeteners or stick to natural flavors with unsweetened variations. Whatever flavor you choose, these refreshing drinks made with loose leaf tea are sure to quench your thirst.
All of these recipes can be brewed using hot water or cold-brewed by steeping the ingredients for several hours in cold water. Looking for other inventive ways to brew tea? Try brewing these recipes as sun tea — a process that infuses flavor by harnessing the power of the sun. Simply add the ingredients to a nonreactive, heat-proof container like a large glass jug. Place in direct sunlight for 6 to 8 hours to allow the leaves, petals, and other ingredients to infuse flavor. Sweeten as desired and sip your way to refreshing coolness on a hot summer day with ice tea brewed by the power of the sun.
]]>Tea bags are often the boogeymen of the tea world. We talk about them plenty and often recommend avoiding them in favor of loose leaf tea. That doesn’t mean they don’t have a place in the tea world.
Tea bags are convenient, no mess options that make brewing tea faster and easier. They are often preferred by people who are new to tea while commonly looked down upon by tea masters because of issues with quality.
There is a lot of discussion surrounding tea bags and whether they are a good choice when it comes to tea drinking. Here, we’ll show you the truth about tea bags and how you can use them to your benefit.
Tea bags are typically small, porous pouches that contain dried leaves, flowers, or herbs that are infused in hot or boiling water to brew tea. Tea bags are available for a wide variety of teas including true teas and herbal teas.
True teas are all teas made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant including white tea, green tea, yellow tea, oolong tea, pu-erh tea, and black tea. Herbal teas are made from all other plants and include popular favorites such as ginger tea, apple tea, and chamomile tea.
Other popular tea blends such as Earl Grey, raspberry green tea, and masala chai tea are also available in tea bag form.
Tea bags are typically made of filter paper or food-grade plastics. They are occasionally made of silk, although silk is considered to inhibit full flavor development. In Asia, the term tea bag often refers to the paper wrapping or envelopes that contain loose tea leaves. The tea leaves are removed from the packaging and steeped as loose leaf teas.
Tea bags essentially work as a simplified tea infuser. They often include a string that enables easy removal and a small tag with brewing instructions. Most are made of paper fiber and other biodegradable materials.
Tea bags have been used for centuries in the tea industry. The bags were initially developed in the 8th century under the rule of the Tang Dynasty. The first tea bags were made of paper that was folded and stitched by hand into square bags. The paper was used to preserve the flavor and aroma of the tea.
In the western hemisphere, tea bags were first used in the early 1900's. Two women—Roberta C. Lawson and Mary Molaren—filed the first patent for a 'tea leaf holder'. They used stitched mesh fabric to enable the tea leaves to expand and infuse flavor while also making tea brewing more convenient.
Another of the first manufacturers of these tea bags was known as Thomas Sullivan (1). He initially used silk before switching to gauze, which he discovered infused tea leaves more efficiently.
The first company to manufacture tea bags using machinery was the tea company Teekanne in Germany in 1929. By 1930, William Hermanson patented the heat-sealed paper tea bag. It wasn't until 1944 that the rectangular tea bag was invented. Up to this point, all tea bags were small and shapeless sacks. In 1953, the British tea company Tetley began to mass-produce tea bags.
In modern times, tea bags are available in the small, rectangular shape and in larger sachets and sacks. Circular tea bags are also available with no strings to help limit waste. Teas are also commonly sold in tea tins and large bags similar to coffee bags.
The main benefit of tea bags is that they are convenient. It's easy to pop a tea bag into a hot cup of water or to-go mug and get on with the rest of your day. There's no fiddling around with tea tools or having to wash extra dishes afterward. The handy attached string makes clean up easy as you can just toss the tea bag into the garbage or compost pile.
Another benefit of tea bags is that there is no mess. You simply remove the bag and voila—a perfect cup of tea without mucking up the kitchen. If you've used loose tea before, you know that you need a tea infuser or tea strainer to remove the loose leaves. That means you'll have extra equipment you need to clean. Tea bags take the hassle out of making tea by streamlining the process.
Tea bags are particularly well-suited for making iced tea. Brewing iced tea can be a big job, especially if you're adding in fresh fruit or flavorings. Brewing with tea bags makes the process simpler and faster so you can get on to other preparations for a big celebration or backyard tea party.
Unlike whole leaf teas, tea bags generally contain broken leaves, dust, and fannings created during the CTC or crush-tear-curl method of production. The leaves are placed into large rolling machines that break down whole leaves into smaller pieces that fit into tea bags.
Unfortunately, this process results in degradation of the healthy compounds such as such as l-theanine and antioxidants inherent to the tea plant that help to detox and improve overall health.
Another issue with tea bags is that many of them are too small and they subsequently constrict the tea leaves. Tea leaves release flavor by expanding in water; when the leaves are restricted, they are unable to infuse the flavor as well. This can result in a weaker cup of tea lacking the rich flavor of brewed loose leaf blends.
Just because tea bags have some drawbacks doesn't mean you can't use them. Drinking tea is all about enjoyment. If you're in a hurry and need to use a tea bag, go for it. Just make sure to follow these guidelines to select the best tea bags that preserve flavor and aroma.
Since small tea bags result in inferior flavor, using large sachets instead helps to minimize this drawback. Loose sachets ensure the leaves have plenty of space to expand and infuse flavor. Pyramid shaped tea bags are particularly useful since the tea leaves are free to float around both sideways and vertically.
Look for tea bags that are unbleached to prevent the alteration of flavors from chemicals. Tea bags that are heat sealed are better than those with metal staples as the metal can affect flavor. If you're looking to cut down on waste, opt for tea bags that don't contain excess wrapping or strings and tags.
Whether you choose black tea bags, green tea bags, or even powdered matcha green tea, the quality of the leaves makes all the difference in brewing. This is true whether you plan on making a cup of tea using loose leaves or tea bags. You can also purchase tea that is certified fair trade to ensure healthy working and growing conditions are established.
Always purchase tea from a reputable company to ensure the best flavor. The tea company should prominently list where the tea comes from and how it was grown. Teas grown in the Philippines will taste different than those grown in China or Africa. That's due to terroir—the idea that climate, earth composition, and other environmental factors affect flavor and aroma.
Looking for convenience but don't want to sacrifice quality or flavor? Try T-sacs or other fillable tea bags! These filter-paper pouches allow you to enjoy your favorite high-quality loose teas without the hassle of a steeper or strainer. These tea bags are also great for easy cold brewing!
Tea bags are convenient and minimize the mess typically associated with traditional brewing methods. While we still recommend using loose leaf tea whenever possible, you can use tea bags in a pinch.
Tea bags are great when you're in a hurry and simply don't have time for cleanup. Make sure to select tea bags that are large enough to allow the leaves to fully expand and infuse flavor. Opt for tea bags that contain whole leaves to get better flavor and health benefits.
When it comes down to it, the healthiest tea is the tea you drink. Don't skip a hot cuppa just because you don't want to pull out the tea tools. Simply pop in a high-quality, large sachet tea bag and sip to your health.
With so many tea varieties to choose from, where do you begin? Here we’ll explore the varieties of black tea, how it differs from its close cousins: white, green, oolong and red tea. Then we'll look deeper and highlight the typical side effects black tea can be responsible for.
First, let’s be clear on what black tea actually is. It comes from the Camellia sinensis plant, first discovered in China. The funny thing is in China it is not known as black tea, but red tea. Outside of China, however, red tea refers to the red South African herbal tea called rooibos.
Looking for healthy and tasty black teas? Check out our collection of the best black tea flavors right here.
Believe it or not, black tea is actually the same as green and white tea, the only difference being tin the level of oxidations the tea leaves undergo. Black tea accounts for 90 percent of all tea consumed in the western world and is one of six types of tea known as true teas. The other true teas are green tea, white tea, yellow tea, oolong tea, and pu-erh tea. Black tea is often consumed on its own or with sweetener and milk, though it is also used as the base tea in flavored teas such as Earl Grey and masala chai. Loose leaf black tea often offers malty flavor with a full body and hints of caramel or chocolate notes. That being said, just like any true tea type, each black tea has a character and personality of its own to be discovered.
Each country listed below has its own unique black tea with a distinct flavor profile. You can take your taste buds on a tea journey as you begin to explore the wonderful world of black tea. Here are some of the most renowned varieties by country:
From China you will find Congou, Keemun, Lapsang Souchong Dianhoung, Yingdehong, Jiu Qu Hong Mei (oxidized black tea) and Pu'erh (truly fermented black tea). Taiwan’s most popular black tea is Sun Moon Lake. India most frequently drinks Assam, Darjeeling, Kangra, Munnar and Nilgiri black teas. Jaekseol comes from Korea. Nepali, yes you guessed it, Nepal. Ceylon originates in Sri Lanka. Turkey makes Rize.
You can also spice up that culinary adventure with blends you may already be familiar with including Chai tea blends, Earl Grey variations and English breakfast.
While black tea has many proclaimed health benefits, there are also potential side effects you should be aware of when choosing your daily teas.
Aside from some pu-erh teas, black teas have the highest caffeine content of the true tea types. This can prove problematic for individuals who have a sensitivity to the energizing compound with side effects including nausea, jitters, and insomnia. Furthermore, regular consumption of high levels of caffeine can lead to stomach ulcers and other internal issues. If you have reactions to caffeine in other products, limit your intake of black teas to reduce risk of experiencing negative side effects.
When consuming tea it is important to be cognizant of where your leaves come from. Different teas from around the world will not only exhibit unique flavor profiles but are a product of the environment in which they are grown. Different soils will contain different components including varying levels of heavy metals which then affect the tea plants. Studies have shown that in areas where black tea is consumed regularly individuals maintained safe levels of heavy metals in their system, but more research is needed. If you drink black tea daily it is important to keep this in mind and talk to your doctor if you have any concerning symptoms arise.
Black tea has been touted in recent years as being a highly beneficial for oral health. Black tea contains polyphenols which have the potential to prevent a multitude of health issues. However, black tea can negatively affect oral health in the fact that regular consumption of black tea can stain your teeth. Tannins and other components in tea that help give the leaves their flavor also contribute to unwanted tooth discoloration. To avoid this, try switching to oolong teas or green teas.
Impress your friends and family with our latest creation, the Jasmine Elixir, whose flavor profile offers an enticing blend of mint and jasmine for a satisfying and refreshing drink. Add to your social-distancing picnic package or kickback and enjoy after dinner!
Try cold steeping tea leaves for up to 12 hours before serving and experience a different, but no less delicious flavor profile!
]]>Jin Xuan tea is an oolong tea that was originally produced by tea growers in Taiwan in the early 1980s. The tea's name translates to "Golden Daylily" and is also known as milk oolong tea or Nai Xiang tea. This high-quality tea is renowned for its natural milky, buttery flavor developed through a highly-specialized production process overseen by expert tea masters. Here, we’ve made a brief introduction to Jin Xuan tea so you can learn more about the methods behind the milky oolong flavor.
Looking for deliciously creamy and buttery Milk Oolong tea? Get your hands on our Jin Xuan Tea right here.
Milk Oolong tea offers a delightfully floral flavor as it is a more mildly oxidized oolong tea. It offers a full mouthfeel with rich creaminess, a milky flavor, and a floral aroma. Jin Xuan oolong tea has hints of sweet butter, roasted vegetal undertones, and a milky aftertaste. Even more interesting, this tea doesn't contain any milk. The milky aroma and flavor of Jin Xuan tea can be attributed to the way the tea is cultivated and produced.
While most oolong teas – like Tieguanyin — come from the Fujian and Anxi provinces of China, this oolong traces its origins to Taiwan. Jin Xuan milk oolong tea is largely considered a Taiwanese tea, but it is also cultivated to a smaller degree in Thailand.
The tea is grown at high altitudes, which gives it a bolder flavor and aroma than lower-elevation teas. In Taiwan, the tea is mainly grown in the Zhushan region at 2,000 feet above sea level and in Alishan at 4,000 feet above sea level just outside Nantou County. In Thailand, the tea is grown at several tea estates in the higher elevations including in Chiang Rai province.
Tea farmers gently pluck the oolong tea leaves by hand and allow the leaves to wither before beginning the oxidation process. The tea leaves are gently bruised, allowing enzymes in the leaves to react with oxygen in the air. This oxidation process causes the leaves to turn a brown or black hue and develops the buttery milk flavor the tea is famous for.
Once the leaves reach the desired oxidation point, the process ends by heating the tea leaves. The leaves are then rolled or shaped and packaged for sale.
Like most types of tea, not all tea leaves offer the same quality when it comes to flavor and aroma. This is particularly noticeable when it comes to specialty tea like milk oolong.
In general, tea bags contain lower quality flavor since the bags are usually filled with broken leaves and fragments. Instead, look for milk oolong in loose leaf tea form. If you must use tea bags, look for large pyramid-shaped tea bags that feature larger leaves and allow enough room for the leaves to expand and infuse flavor.
High-quality milk oolong tea develops its distinct flavors through a precise production process. There are loads of cheap, low-quality milk oolongs that try to mimic the flavor of the real thing by adding flavorings or claiming to soak the leaves in milk. Authentic milk oolong tea doesn't contain any milk or added flavors so make sure to do your research when purchasing. You can also get your hands on high-quality authentic milk oolong tea right here.
Xin Juan tea is a Taiwanese milk tea that offers a rich, buttery feel and hints of milk blended with vegetal undertones similar to those found in green tea. Depending on the varietal, it can offer more grassy notes or floral hints due to a range of oxidation levels. It's the perfect cup of tea to enjoy during all four seasons as it can be brewed as a hot tea or an iced tea.
]]>Cold brew tea is an iced tea that is made by infusing the tea leaves in cold water rather than hot water or boiling water. Since cold water doesn’t develop flavors as easily as hot water, the steeping time is significantly longer when making iced tea using the cold brew method. It’s similar to making sun tea, but instead of placing the tea in direct sunlight, the cold brewed tea steeps in a large pitcher in the refrigerator. Cold brew tea can be made using tea bags or loose tea, though loose leaf tea generally offers better flavors compared to tea bags. Learn how to make cold brew tea with these useful tips and our simple cold brew recipe.
While making cold brew iced tea is relatively easy, there are a few handy tips you can use to ensure your tea is as tasty as possible.
We recommend using a glass pitcher or glass containers such as mason jars when making cold brew tea. Not only does the glass enable you to view the stunning colors of the tea, it also won’t react with any ingredients. Some metal containers may react with acidic elements, altering the flavor of your tea, so it’s best to avoid cold brewing tea in metal bowls or jars.
If you choose to make cold brew iced tea with loose leaves, it’s a good idea to use a fine mesh infuser or a cheesecloth when straining out the leaves. These tools help to remove even the finest sediment from the tea leaves, ensuring your glass of tea is crystal clear and free from tea dust.
Use only high-quality tea leaves to get the best iced tea flavors. Since cold brewing tea takes longer to develop flavors, using poor quality leaves can cause astringent notes unpleasant to the palate.
The longer the tea steeps, the stronger the flavors will become. Some teas like black tea such as Earl Grey contain high amounts of tannins that can develop astringent flavors. Some people enjoy these bitter notes while others prefer smoother tastes, so make sure to try your tea every few hours when it is steeping. This will help you nail down the perfect flavor.
Since this brewing method requires using cold water to make tea, there are only a few types of sweeteners you can use to sweeten the tea. Cold water won’t dissolve hard sugars such as cane sugar or brown sugar very well. Instead, use a liquid sugar such as simple syrup or agave to sweeten your cold brew tea or cold brew coffee.
You can refrigerate your cold brew tea for 3 to 5 days depending on the ingredients you use in your iced tea recipe. Make sure to keep the pitcher covered to prevent other food items from contaminating your tea.
While true teas and herbal infusions provide many nutrients and beneficial elements no matter how they are prepared, cold brewing does offer some advantages. When hot water is introduced to tea leaves and tisane components, some of the antioxidants and other nutrients are necessarily broken down. Try cold brewing our Turmeric Ginger or Ruby Sipper for an powerful Vitamin C boost!
Cold brew tea offers all the health benefits of a cup of hot tea, but with the refreshing kick of a glass of iced tea. Best of all, you can cold brew just about any type of tea from matcha green tea to fruity blends such as Snow White and Organic Rosehip tea. Add water and let the tea steep for a few hours before sipping down great tasting tea. Swap out the hot brew for an ice-cold glass of cold brew tea and enjoy an afternoon filled with great tastes and life’s simple pleasures.
]]>*For a stronger flavor, use more tea
A traditional part of western tea practices, scones have been delighting tea-drinkers for centuries with their buttery flavor and flaky texture. Looking for tea good combinations to complete your afternoon snack? Try sipping our classic Earl Grey black tea or floral Jade Snail green tea!
]]>Tea is one of the most versatile drinks out there, offering health benefits that are almost endless. It has been used as a health elixir by everyone from monks in Southeast Asia and the ancient Greeks to the British monarchy and South American spiritual gurus.
Tea is regarded widely as a drink that can awaken your senses and replace coffee as an alternative to get through the day. With thousands of flavors ranging from true teas such as black tea and oolong tea to herbal tisanes like hibiscus tea, the health benefits of this libation are numerous.
While certain types of tea wake you up in the morning, others can help ensure that you get a better night's sleep. With naturally calming sedative effects, these nighttime teas can help alleviate sleep disorders such as insomnia and ensure higher sleep quality. We've put together a list of the top 7 bedtime teas to help you relax in the evening and get to sleep faster so you can wake up feeling rested.
Like taking a warm bath before bed, drinking a hot cup of soothing liquid can help you get to sleep faster. Compounds in tea trigger chemical reactions in the nervous system that encourage your body to relax and prepare for sleep. Many herbal teas and even some decaf true teas feature additional chemical compounds that further enhance sleepiness and resolve sleep problems to help you rest easier.
Chamomile tea is probably the most well known sleepy-time tea and near the top of any bedtime tea list. This herbal tea has been used for centuries as part of traditional medicine to treat anxiety, insomnia and relieve stress and features a taste that is reminiscent of crisp apples. Chamomile's flavor profile is also described as earthy and grounded with finishing notes that are sweet and floral.
A 2009 study found that chamomile extract reduces anxiety in patients diagnosed with mild to moderate generalized anxiety disorder known as GAD. Chamomile tea works as a mild tranquilizer to reduce stress on muscles and nerves. This process helps to relieve tension and encourage relaxation (1).
Further, a 2005 animal study investigated the calming effects of chamomile tea on the amount of time it takes to fall asleep. Researchers found that chamomile extract decreased sleep latency in rats at doses of 300 milligrams (2). In a human study published in 2011, scientists found that chamomile was useful in improving wakefulness and alertness after sleep. These results indicate better quality sleep when patients consume chamomile tea (3). While research is ongoing, chamomile tea shows strong potential to make it easier to get to sleep and wake up refreshed.
For even more soothing power, try our Quiet Nights blend of chamomile flowers and lavender.
Passionflower tea is derived from both fresh and dried leaves of the Passiflora incarnata plant. Tea made from this plant is light pale green or slightly lilac in color and features a mild taste that is vegetal, floral and earthy green. Passionflower tea contains a flavone commonly found in honey that induces calm and soothes muscles to increase mental repose.
A study published in Phytotherapy Research examined the effects of passionflower on sleep quality in 41 individuals aged 18 to 35. The participants consumed one cup of passionflower tea or a placebo for a 1-week period and kept a sleep journal. At the end of the study, participants who consumed passionflower tea showed significantly increased sleep quality (4).
Passionflower tea offers a sweet, floral way to alleviate sleep disorders and get better quality sleep. Consume a cup each evening before bed to reap the benefits of passionflower tea.
In the Middle Ages, lemon balm was a common herb used to treat symptoms of insomnia and anxiety that prevent restful sleep. Tea made from lemon balm is deliciously sharp and helps to induce relaxation. Lemon balm tea is derived from the lemon balm plant known scientifically as Melissa officinalis which is part of the mint family. This tea contains compounds that help to soothe stress and relax muscles. Lemon balm can even be grown right in your own garden for fresh leaves that are chock full of health benefits.
Studies have shown that lemon balm, when combined with other sleep aids such as passionflower and chamomile, can have mild to moderate effects on insomnia and sleep disturbance disorders. Scientists believe lemon balm triggers GABA receptors in the nervous system, which results in an increased state of calm and rest (5).
Peppermint tea is made from the Mentha balsamea plant, which is a hybrid between traditional spearmint and watermint plants. The mint plant can be found in the wild and residential gardens across the world. Drinking a cup of peppermint tea before bed can help you sleep better, especially if you have and upset stomach. It is known as an anti-stress tea and contains anti-inflammatory properties that relax muscles and encourage calm.
Peppermint tea, like many other herbal teas, is caffeine free so drinking a cup before bed won't increase insomnia. In fact, this infusion contains compounds that work as muscle relaxants to help induce feelings of calm before bedtime. Peppermint has also been shown to relieve gas and bloating, helping to induce sleep when you are experiencing symptoms of indigestion or other digestive tract issues (6).
Peppermint tea can also help to alleviate nausea and morning sickness in pregnant women, ensuring better sleep. A study published in the Journal of Natural Science Research examined the effect of peppermint oil on 101 pregnant women who reported daily morning sickness and nausea. At the conclusion of the study, scientists found that peppermint oil reduced the occurrence of nausea in pregnant women (7). If you are having a hard time falling asleep because of nausea or morning sickness, brew up a cup of peppermint tea.
For an extra boost of antioxidants and sleep-inducing compounds, try our Foxtrot tisane which boast a combination of peppermint, chamomile, and rooibos!
Lavender tea is made from the flower petals and buds of the Lavandula angustifolia plant. This tea sports a striking purplish pink color and exudes a minty aroma. Lavender tea has a flavor profile that is sweet, mild and light. Lavender is another popular scent that is legendary for calming your senses before climbing into bed.
Lavender is used in everything from bath salts to aromatherapy to induce feelings of peace and calmness. This tea is a great way to settle down after a busy day and prepare for more restful sleep.
A study published in Chronobiology International, demonstrated that lavender aromatherapy increases deep sleep and boosts energy levels upon waking up. The study consisted of 31 participants who spent three nights in a sleep laboratory while inhaling lavender oil and distilled water in aromatherapy. The substances were alternated in set time periods to establish control periods (8).
At the conclusion of the study, scientists found that lavender increased slow-wave sleep, also known as deep sleep, and REM sleep. Researchers also concluded that lavender had stronger effects in women than in men. To reap these benefits, simply drink a cup of lavender tea before bed and make sure to take time to inhale the aroma and fragrance with each sip.
Valerian root tea is made from the roots of the Valeriana officinialis plant that is native to Asia and Europe. Valerian roots appear light gray in color and features an earthy, woody flavor profile. This herbal tea can also feature pine and evergreen aromas due to the presence of camphor and pinene compounds. This tea should be brewed using hot water, not boiling water to preserve its calming and sedative powers.
Valerian tea is a powerful sleep aid when it comes to treating insomnia and getting better sleep. It's use dates back to the 2nd century where it was prescribed in traditional medicine to reduce insomnia and anxiety. A scientific analysis of valerian root trials found that this tea shows moderate abilities to improve insomnia. Valerian tea is often suggested as an alternative to melatonin, a hormone that induces relaxation and sleep (9).
This natural remedy has the potential to replace prescription drugs, which can have dangerous side effects including hallucinations and drowsiness. It's important to note that this tea can have addictive qualities so it's best to use it sparingly in combination with one or more of these other sleep teas. It can also interact with certain medications, so consult with a healthcare provider before using this tea to treat insomnia or other sleep conditions.
Lemongrass tea is an exceptional sleep aid that stimulates rest by inducing the release of chemicals and hormones that regulate sleep. Specifically, lemongrass tea triggers the release of serotonin, a hormone that has been connected to improving mood and happiness. This tea is particularly useful for individuals who suffer from restlessness before bed as the sedative effects reduce stress while serotonin increases feelings of contentment.
Lemongrass tea is made from the leaves of the lemongrass plant known scientifically as Cymbopogon citratus, native to Asia, India and Australia. This tea features a citrusy, lemony flavor and is light and airy with a refreshingly crisp finish. A 2009 study found that lemongrass tea can help regulate sleep cycles, leading to improved sleep even over longer periods of time. Scientists believe these sleep aids can be attributed to the release of serotonin and sedative effects of the lemongrass plant leaves (10). Incorporate a cup of lemongrass tea into you nightly routine, and reap the benefits of this amazing plant.
If you have a hard time sleeping because of sleep disorders such as insomnia or for digestive reasons, tea can help you get to sleep faster and increase your sleep quality. These sleep teas also feature a wide array of flavors and aromas. Try them all and decide which ones best suit your taste preferences. Set aside 10 to 15 minutes each night to unwind and sip a cup of sleep tea to help you feel more rested and ready for sleep. You'll thank yourself in the morning when you wake up feeling rejuvenated and ready to face the day.
Sip a delicious cup of one of these top bedtime teas and you'll be slipping into sweet dreams in no time. For the best results, use loose leaf teas rather than tea bags. Loose leaf teas contain whole leaves that pack in more of the essential nutrients and compounds responsible for the calming and sedative effects. Mix your preferred tea leaves with hot water, settle into your favorite chair and make a conscious effort to unwind and enjoy the tea drinking experience. With these sleepy teas, you're sure to get more restful sleep and wake up feeling more rejuvenated.
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19593179
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15863883/
3. https://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/handle/2027.42/112875
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21294203
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3230760/
6. https://nccih.nih.gov/health/peppermintoil
7. http://www.iiste.org/Journals/index.php/JNSR/article/viewFile/5699/5833
8. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/07420520500263276
9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20347389
10. http://www.relaquim.com/archive/2009/p2009373243-251.pdf
]]>Coffee is a staple of many morning routines in America. We wake up, jumpstart the day with a cup of joe and often consume it throughout the day to keep up our energy. However, in other corners of the globe like South America, people start their day with a drink you may not know much about — yerba mate.
Yerba mate is a South American drink that provides an excellent alternative to coffee and has legendary health benefits. This tea has ancient origins and is often referred to as the "tea of the gods."
Popular in places such as Paraguay, Uruguay and Brazil, this brewed tea is also gaining popularity in the United States.
So what exactly is Yerba mate and what makes it so special? Yerba mate is made from the Ilex paraguariensis plant using both the leaves and twigs. After harvest, the leaves are dried over a fire to speed up the oxygenation process.
Yerba mate contains high levels of tannins giving it a strength of flavor similar to that of coffee or black teas. Yerba mate is often described as tasting chocolatey, earthy, lemony and nutty. Blends made with a predominance of twigs will have a more woodsy taste than those with a higher concentration of yerba mate leaves. In South America, yerba mate is consumed unsweetened, whereas in the U.S. it is common to add honey or other sugars to make the taste more appealing to American palates.
Studies have shown that yerba mate is jam-packed with seven of the nine essential amino acids along with almost every mineral and vitamin the human body needs to survive. While yerba mate infusions won't serve as a cure-all, adding this tea to your daily routine can have several health benefits.
Yerba mate contains antioxidants and minerals that have shown potential when it comes to fighting chronic illness and supporting general health and wellbeing. Like many teas, yerba mate has polyphenols that help fight disease, xanthines that provide an energy boost, and saponins which help protect heart health.
While coffee contains 95 milligrams of caffeine in every 8-ounce cup, yerba mate tea comes close with 85 milligrams per cup, making it just as an effective energy boost in the morning or afternoon.
Yerba mate tea also contains another xanthine derivation known as theobromine. Found in chocolate and other substances, theobromine is a naturally occurring stimulant, known for a smoother, longer-lasting energy boost than caffeine. This means that yerba mate does not have the jittery effects that a strong cup of coffee can have, so you can start your day with some caffeine without the negative side effects.
Yerba mate has powerful health benefits that can help individuals lose weight by speeding up metabolic rate. A study published in Nutrition and Metabolism showed that participants who were given a 1-gram capsule of yerba mate before a workout burned 24 percent more fat while completing moderately intense exercises (1).
Yerba mate has also shown to increase the body's reliance on using fats during exercise, which can enhance performance. By burning more fats initially than carbohydrates, the human body has greater stores of energy for higher intensity exercises, thus increasing endurance. The same study also demonstrated the potential effects of yerba mate on reducing muscle fatigue and a faster recovery time between exercises.
A second 12-week study showed that individuals who consumed 3 grams of yerba mate each day had an average weight loss of 1.5 pounds over the period of the study. The participants who were only given a placebo demonstrated an average weight gain of 6.2 pounds during the same time period. While more research is needed, yerba mate has shown strong potential when it comes to helping people lose weight and shed fat.
Yerba mate tea has anti-bacterial and antioxidant properties that help keep your immune system healthy and fight off bacteria and colds. One study performed on cells in a lab showed that high levels of yerba mate can combat the E. coli bacterium that causes food poisoning (2).
Yerba mate also has strong anti-fungal properties and has shown potential when it comes to treating skin diseases. One study found that 1000 milligrams of yerba mate tea can treat the growth of certain types of fungus that cause dandruff, rashes and dry skin (3).
Packed full of essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals, yerba mate can help support a healthy immune system. Drinking one cup a day can help keep the doctor away and speed up recovery if you do catch the common cold or flu virus.
If you suffer from high blood pressure, drinking yerba mate regularly can help prevent more severe heart disease. The high levels of theobromine, a vasodilator, in yerba mate allow this infusion to increase blood flow by relaxing the smooth muscle in blood vessels. Relaxing constricted blood vessels, and increasing blood flow can result in lowering blood pressure and protecting overall heart health.
Yerba mate helps further prevent heart disease when consumed regularly by lowering LDL cholesterol, known as bad cholesterol. A 40-day study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry showed that when participants consumed 11 ounces per day of yerba mate, LDL cholesterol levels could be reduced by 8-13 percent (4).
For people who suffer from diabetes, consuming yerba mate tea can help to regulate blood sugar levels. High concentrations of polyphenols work to regulate glucose in the body. Chlorogenic acid in particular has shown the ability to modulate glucose, preventing dangerous blood sugar spikes (5).
Several compounds in yerba mate have shown potential cancer fighting effects, although this health benefit has been extremely controversial. A study published in Molecular Nutrition and Food Researhc added yerba mate extract directly to human colon cancer cells in a test tube, with results showing the cancer cells self-destructed (6).
Yerba mate also contains high levels of known cancer-fighting compounds such as chlorogenic acid, tannins and saponins. While more research is needed for a conclusive analysis, there is hope in the scientific community when it comes to preventing cancer using yerba mate.
For individuals who consume yerba mate only occasionally, there are few side effects outside of caffeine sensitivity. However, for individuals who consume yerba mate regularly, there are studies that have shown some negative side effects.
Since yerba mate contains caffeine, it should be avoided or only consumed in small amounts if you have caffeine sensitivity. Pregnant women should also limit their consumption to a maximum of three cups per day since high levels of caffeine can increase the risk of miscarriage.
Several studies have studied the effect of consumption of high levels of yerba mate with increased risk of cancer. Most of these studies have focused on the presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in yerba mates teas. PAHs are found in grilled meat and smoke and are known carcinogens (7).
Other studies have shown a connection between increased cancer levels and the high temperatures at which yerba mate is consumed. Most cancers associated with yerba mate are in the larynx, esophagus and mouth with many researchers believing the connection is due to the high water temperatures associated with consumption. If concerned, try to consume small amounts of yerba mate at cooler temperatures (8).
As with most teas, yerba mate can have adverse interactions with certain medications. Yerba mate contains compounds that are MAOIs, so individuals who take MAOI drugs should consult their physician before drinking yerba mate. As always, it's important to check with your doctor to ensure any medications won't be affected by tea consumption.
Traditionally, yerba mate tea is brewed and then consumed using a gourd or a calabash. If you do not have a gourd, you can brew yerba mate using a French press. Special metal straws that have filters on one end are used when consuming to filter out the leaves. Many South American societies pass around gourds as a show of communal friendship and as a bonding exercise.
If using loose tea, fill one third of the gourd with leaves. In general, you should use 1 tablespoon for every cup if water. If using a tea bag, brew as you would any other tea bag.
To avoid some of the side effects of yerba mate tea, it is recommended to avoid consuming the beverage using extremely hot water. With this in mind, bring your water to a simmer rather than a boil. Using higher water temperatures can also result in a more bitter taste. Yerba mate is typically consumed hot, but you can also drink mate leaves cold for a refreshing beverage if preferred.
Let the tea steep for 3 to 5 minutes.
While traditionally consumed as-is, you can flavor your yerba mate using lemon juice, mint, milk, or burnt sugar.
With caffeine content similar to that of a cup of coffee, yerba mate has quickly become a replacement when it comes to kick-starting the day or getting an energy boost in the afternoon. While widely known for these stimulating effects, yerba mate also has extensive health benefits when it comes to preventing disease and living a healthy, happy life.
Drink mate tea to build a healthy immune system, prevent heart disease and protect your overall health. With a delightfully earthy flavor and hints of chocolate and lemon, this tea has an acquired taste that develops fully with prolonged use.
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4190939/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22488066
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19827026
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19694438
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3315195/
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21656672
7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19695149
8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19695149
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For more delicious tea beverages, visit our Tea Cocktail page!
]]>Similar to the original recipe, our Mighty Matcha is made from a combination of pu-erh tea, ginger, and turmeric with the addition of honey and matcha to boost your energy and your immune system.
Of the six true tea types, pu-erh teas are some of the most interesting and exclusive. Pu-erh teas, of which there are two types, are produced from leaves that have been fermented either over and extended period of time or in a controlled environment for a shorter period. The process which the leaves undergo allows the leaves to develop beneficial bacteria that can help regulate the digestive system and promote gut health. The leaves of this type are generally allowed to oxidize as long as black teas meaning they contain a high caffeine content that provides the smooth lift in energy characteristic to tea.
Both spices commonly found in recipes around the world, ginger and turmeric have long been used as herbal remedies for everything from soothing nausea to alleviating symptoms of the common cold. Belonging to the same family, ginger and turmeric are chock-full of antioxidants and other nutrients. Regular consumption can boost your immune system and keep your body healthy.
Honey is one of our favorite additions to tea. Not only does honey enhance the unique flavors in teas but it provides several health benefits as well. High in antioxidants, honey can also boost your immune system when consumed regularly. Local honey can even help stave off seasonal allergies by introducing local pollens into your system.
The final component to our creation: matcha! Matcha is produced by de-veining and crushing Sencha tea leaves to a fine powder. This powder is then mixed with hot water, and typically milk in western practices, before being directly consumed. Since the leaves are consumed, matcha delivers all the caffeine and nutrients inherent in the tea plant. This tea will give you a strong boost of energy, along with antioxidants, without the severe crash coffee can cause.
Our Mighty Matcha is the perfect concoction to get you started in the morning and insure that you won't face a mid-morning crash. Try it out and this drink will become your new morning favorite!
]]>Looking to learn more about teapot options? Cast iron teapots offer a unique way to brew tea that draws from traditional inspiration and can be molded to suit modern convenience.
These teapots were originally used to brew tea over open charcoal fires, creating a dramatic ambiance that enhanced flavor. Today, you can brew the traditional way or make your life easy by using a cast iron kettle on the stove. Find out if cast iron is right for you and start brewing better tea.
Cast iron tea kettles are particularly common tea vessels in Japanese and other Asian cultures. In Japan, cast iron kettles are known as tetsubin. They originated during the late 17th century and early 18th century and became integral to the Japanese tea ceremony. These tea vessels are most commonly used in Japan to brew green tea, but can be used with any loose leaf teas.
A true tetsubin is made entirely of cast iron while popular Western options feature enamel lining inside the kettle. These enamel versions are actually known in Japan as Tetsu Kyusu. They're commonly available as teapot sets at popular tea companies including Teavana. The enamel lining comes in many colors including plum, blue, and black for personalization.
Traditional Japanese style brewing methods involve heating the Japanese cast iron kettle over a charcoal fire. In modern times, these tea kettles can also be used to brew tea right on the stovetop. The small base of the tea kettle makes it most suitable for small burner rings.
Japanese tea kettles can be used on glass burners as well as on classic gas stoves. Enamel lined teapots can't be used on the stove as the heat will crack the enamel. Always look for full cast iron construction if you want to brew tea on the stove.
Black cast iron teapots are a top choice for tea lovers because they are hardy and durable. They withstand breakage from bumps and drops far better than porcelain or glass kettles. Cast iron tea kettles are often sold as part of a set including tea cups to complete the look. Cast iron pots are still visually stunning as they are typically engraved or fired with intricate designs.
According to some tea experts, a small amount of the iron is infused into the water with each heating. This applies only to cast iron tea kettles that are not lined with enamel. The iron is said to increase health benefits and add a sultry flavor to tea.
Like stainless steel teapots, cast iron kettles heat water faster and maintain the heat longer. Cast iron teapots evenly heat tea. This helps to develop flavors throughout the entire pot. These types of tea kettles keep tea hot the longest, making sure you can enjoy your brew without having to reheat.
Cast iron teapots can be used to brew tea using loose tea leaves or tea bags. If you plan on brewing loose leaf teas, look for a cast iron teapot that features a removable tea infuser. Most cast iron kettles have a stainless steel infuser basket that sits directly on the rim.
Both true tetsubin and enamel-lined versions develop a patina over time. This residue further develops flavors and results in richer-tasting tea. To preserve the flavor of tea, you should only brew one type of tea—green or oolong for example—in your cast iron teapot.
Follow these instructions when using a Japanese tetsubin.
1. Preheat
Boil water in a pan on the stove. Rinse the cast iron kettle once or twice using the boiling water. This helps to clean the teapot while also warming it up.
2. Add tea leaves
Portion out the appropriate amount of tea leaves for every 8 ounces of water. The amount will vary depending on the size of your tea kettle and tea infuser. Avoid over-stuffing the infuser as the leaves won't fully expand and infuse flavor.
3. Heat the water and steep
For traditional Japanese tea, you can brew tea by placing the kettle over a charcoal fire.
For simpler brewing, use the stove in your kitchen. You can heat water in another vessel and pour the boiling water into the cast iron kettle. You can also simply heat the water in the kettle on the stovetop if it is not lined with enamel.
Make sure to heat the water to the appropriate temperature for the type of tea you are brewing. Green tea should be brewed with hot water from 150 to 180 F while black tea should be brewed between 200° and 212°F. Steep as recommended for your tea type.
4. Enjoy!
Durable cast iron teapots involve minimal care to protect their integrity. After each tea infusion, rinse out the teapot using warm water. Don't use soap or any other harsh cleaners such as vinegar as these can alter the flavor profile of subsequent infusions.
Dry the vessel completely using a soft cloth to prevent rust. Make sure to dry the tea infuser basket as well. If you’re using a cast iron tea set with iron mugs, make sure to rinse and dry those as well. Do not put them in the dishwasher. With a little care and effort, your tetsubin will bring joy to tea brewing for years to come.
Cast iron pots are visually stunning and can make great gifts for Christmas or birthdays. These Japanese tea tools are perfect for people who want to brew tea that will stay warm longer and heat up more quickly.
Choose a teapot with intricate designs for use as part of a Japanese tea ceremony or go for something simple for everyday use. Make sure to select a full cast iron constructed kettle rather than one lined with enamel if you plan on heating directly on the stove.
]]>For many people, menstrual cramps are a fact of life. Period pain can be a minor nuisance or a debilitating condition that causes many individuals to miss work, skip important events, and simply feel miserable. While people often reach for medications and prescriptions that can help improve pain, there are also holistic options that can make your menstrual cycle easier.
Drinking tea is one of the best herbal remedies for alleviating menstrual pain. The beverage is delicious and taking the time to sip a cup of tea can help boost your mental health too. Banish period pain and stop dreading that time of the month by trying these best teas for menstrual cramps.
Chamomile tea is a wonderful, stress-reducing tea. Studies show that this herbal tea may work directly to affect GABA receptors in the brain to help induce relaxation and reduce stress. If you get anxiety knowing your period is coming — along with painful cramps — this tea may help thanks to its calming effects (1). Chamomile tea also boasts natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation, a root cause of period pain, cramping, and bloating.
Additional research shows that chamomile tea is particularly useful for lower abdomen cramps, also known as primary dysmenorrhea. One such Iranian study found that participants suffering from period cramps had significant improvements in pain when they consumed chamomile tea twice daily for one week before their periods and during the first five days of menstruation (2).
For added relaxation and mood-boosting properties, try our Quiet Nights tisane which incorporates lavender and chamomile for the ultimate soothing brew.
This herbal tea is a popular remedy that has been used to help support women's health including boosting fertility and offering pain relief for period cramps. According to the European Medicines Agency, raspberry leaf tea helps to reduce muscle spasms that can cause painful cramps (3). The tea boasts anti-inflammatory properties which help to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow. Research published in Botanical Medicine for Women also shows that raspberry leaf tea may help to reduce the amount of bleeding some people experience during their menstrual cycles (4).
Best of all, this herbal tea offers a tart fruity flavor with earthy notes that are commonly found in black tea. It's a real treat from its delicious flavor to its extensive health benefits.
Ginger is another home remedy that can offer pain relief for people who suffer from painful menstruation and heavy blood flows. A randomized, controlled trial found that subjects who took ginger during the first five days of their period had significantly reduced symptoms of pain and bleeding compared to those given a placebo (5). Additional research published in Iran found that ginger helped to control heavy menstrual bleeding in high school-aged girls (6).
Fennel tea offers natural anti-carminative and antispasmodic effects that help to reduce bloating, inflammation, and cramping. In a study utilizing a placebo group, fennel tea showed a significant impact on improving pain associated with menstruation. More than half of the study participants who consumed fennel tea reported cramp relief compared to just eight percent of participants who took a placebo (7).
Peppermint is a medicinal herb that has historically been used for everything from healing wounds and lowering blood pressure to improving digestion. The tea offers a delicious tingling sensation and vibrant taste thanks to a high concentration of menthol. The tea can be made using dried loose leaf tea, fresh mint leaves, or be added to smoothies for an indulgent treat.
A study published in the Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research found that peppermint tea had a profound effect on pain reporting during menstruation. The study showed that peppermint tea was just as effective as mefenamic acid — an NSAID used to treat period pain (8).
Green tea is one of the most popular natural remedies in the world. It's packed with antioxidants and healthy ingredients like tannins, catechins, and flavonoids that are beneficial for human health. Green tea has also been shown to alleviate pain caused by menstrual cramps. The tea works to reduce period pain by decreasing inflammation and working as a natural diuretic. It may also help to treat uterine fibroids (9).
Research on turmeric has shown potential health benefits when it comes to pain in the human boy. Numerous trials and studies show that turmeric may help to alleviate pain associated with arthritis as well as menstrual pain (10) (11). Add some powdered turmeric to hot water and drink a cup of this tea daily for a week prior to your period and at least three days into your menstrual cycle to see the results for yourself.
Cramp bark tea comes from the leaves of a flowering shrub that is native to Northern Europe. The tea is also known as guelder rose and high-bush cranberry tea. Historically, the tea has been used to help alleviate pain, though research on the plant is more limited compared to these other menstrual cramp remedies. One study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada found that an herbal formulation containing cramp bark helped to improve symptoms of PMS including cramping(12).
Period cramps are uncomfortable and for some people, they can be devastatingly severe. For mild to moderate cramps, drinking tea may help to soothe symptoms and calm your nerves. For severe pain, it's a good idea to visit your gynecologist as painful cramps may be a sign of more serious issues including endometriosis.
When that time of the month rolls around, grab a piping hot cup of tea to help yourself relax and alleviate menstrual pain. The simple act of enjoying a cup of tea can help you unwind and focus on your well being. Cuddle up in a cozy chair or lounge in your plush bed, add a few essential oils to your diffuser, and sip your way to feeling better. If you suffer from truly painful periods or severe menstrual cramps, try pairing one of the best teas for menstrual cramps with ibuprofen to further relieve pain symptoms.
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2995283/
2. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/286965003_Chamomile_tea_for_relief_of_primary_dysmenorrhea
3. https://www.sciencedirect.com/book/9780443072772/botanical-medicine-for-womens-health
4. https://www.sciencedirect.com/book/9780443072772/botanical-medicine-for-womens-health
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3518208/
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25298352
7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3611645/
8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4979258/
9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3742155/
10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5003001/
11. https://www.naturalmedicinejournal.com/journal/2016-03/curcumin-reduces-pms-symptoms
12. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0849583116304013
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