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Christina Levandowski

Tea Health Benefits

Does Tea Dehydrate You? (It Isn’t What You Think)

January 17, 2023

Tea has been a long-standing favorite worldwide and is packed with powerful nutritional benefits. It’s a major part of the fabric of hundreds of cultures, and a favorite drink for millions to incorporate into their morning routines. However, there’s been one pervasive myth that’s undermined the tea drinking experience for decades – and we’re here to debunk it. 

Does tea dehydrate you?  The answer might not be what you think! 

Does tea dehydrate you? 

The answer is actually very simple, tea does not dehydrate you like people may tell you or the myths you might here. We know, this goes against probably everything you read! Here’s why: While many fitness enthusiasts and working professionals enjoy their daily cuppa, others have come forward warning the general public about the dangers of excessive tea drinking. However, their proof may have been faulty at best. 

Healthline has found that anything past 8 cups of tea per day, or an average of 1,920 mL at one time, may begin to cause dehydration in the body – but any level of dehydration caused by this excessive amount would be negligible. 

The entire reason that dehydration has the potential to occur is the presence of caffeine in tea, which acts like a natural diuretic in the human body. However, the intake amount in tea is exceptionally low, especially when you compare it to many favorite energy drinks or coffee drinks you’re likely to consume in a given month. 

Plus, the health benefits you’re likely to gain from hydrating with your favorite tea (compared to lessened overall hydration if you weren’t drinking tea) outweigh any minor dehydration that you may run into with excessive drinking – at least in most cases. 

So, no: Tea does not dehydrate you, unless you are drinking an excess and absurd amount of black teas in the tens of cups daily.. That means that you’re free to enjoy multiple cups of your favorite blend with no ill-effects: and we’ve got some fantastic suggestions. 

Teas to help reduce dehydration:

If you’re truly worried about dehydration, you’ll want to select teas without caffeine content in them, or generally herbal loose leaf teas. While you won’t be facing any significant (or bad) effects, you may want to avoid the diuretic effect or the jolty “buzz.” 

Here’s our list of some specialty brews to give you all of the benefits while lessening your risk of dehydration: 

1. Sweet Dreams Tea 

Sweet Dreams tea is the perfect drink to reach for if you’re looking to truly destress and decompress, reaching a state of complete bliss. This transformation is made possible with the addition of dried apple chunks, lemon balm essence, fennel, St. John’s Wort, and soothing chamomile – all of which are processed in an organic compliant way for the benefits without the worry. You’ll get a powerful boost of cancer-resistant antioxidants while enjoying a perfect sleepy-time caffeine-free tea, keeping you soothed and ready for some deep restoration and relaxation. 

2. Lemon Ginger Herbal Tea

Looking for a refreshing herbal tea with a big bold flavor and many health benefits? Lemon Ginger Herbal Tea really tantalize your senses, with the refreshing lemongrass notes and the inviting ginger kick, it is truly one of a kind. This tea is made from a flavorful blend of ginger, lemongrass, lemon peel, licorice and spearmint. This tea will definitely not dehydrate you, but rather, will reduce inflammation and relax your senses to calm your busy lifestyle and get some rest.

3. Evening Comfort Herbal Tea 

This tea blend focuses on rejuvenation and calming, and is the perfect blend to enjoy at any time of the day. We craft our Evening Comfort blend with peppermint leaves, lemon peel essence and dried ginger, giving you a refreshing, zingy cup that will hydrate and soothe you without the harsh feeling of a rise and crash. It’s comfort in a cup, formulated with additions that offer powerful antioxidant, anti aging and anti-inflammatory effects. Let this tea work overtime to offer you complete rest and restoration as you end your busy days. There’s no better way to unwind! 

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Tea Guides

Cozy Christmas Teas To Savor All Season Long

December 1, 2022

The most wonderful time of the year is here, and we’re here to give you direct insight into your coziest drinks yet! Teas are often the drink of choice to wind down after a busy day celebrating the season or after a hard day at work, pushing on til that long-awaited holiday break. However, they can be enjoyed all day, every day – giving you the perfect thing to reach for whenever you need an extra serving of holiday comfort and joy.

The question is: Which holiday teas are best to sip on during the season? While there aren’t any wrong ways to enjoy your favorite flavors and blends, we do have some great suggestions to help get you in the holiday spirit. Read on for our full list of cozy Christmas tea blends you won’t want to miss as we wrap up the last bit of 2022!

What are the best Christmas teas?

You can make any tea a Christmas tea. Generally, as the weather cools, you’ll want to feel that cozy warmth going down to your toes – which is where warming blends, such as vanilla and cinnamon, come in. There are plenty of other flavors to experiment with that are perfectly matched with the chill and bustle of the season, such as evergreen and spearmint (for energy and cooling), citrus (for warmth, zing, and vigor), and chamomile (for soothing and grounding).

Part of the fun of holiday tea blends is the sense of nostalgia and comfort you can get with each cup. Experiment away – and don’t be afraid to mix and match. You might just find a new flavor you love year-round!

Below are a few of our favorite recommended brews for Christmas teas in 2022. Read on for our full list and links to buy. The time is now to stock up on your favorites!

Vanilla Chai Tea

There’s something so remarkably soothing in vanilla-based chai blends. It’s both grounding and calming, giving you a feeling of presence and comfort with every sip! The flavor comes through remarkably, especially with a loose-leaf vanilla chai tea, allowing each leaf and element to fully release its flavors into your favorite holiday mug.

Our vanilla chai is made up of the classic chai tea inclusions (like bold, rich black tea leaves peppered with cardamom, clove, ginger, and cinnamon) and a few extras. Calendula petals offer a sweet, earthy taste to the otherwise robust blend, and a secondary addition of black and white pepper flakes gives the tea a bolder, brighter flavor and gives you some added health benefits, too. It’s the perfect tea to sip on and get a gentle start to your day or to savor by a fireplace with your favorite cookies and a book.

It’s a great multi-use or year-round tea blend that perfectly captures the spirit of the season…and it makes a great gift, too!

Cinnamon Orange Spice

Snappy, spicy, and richly scented with citrus flavors, our cinnamon orange spice tea blend is the perfect pick-me-up for a late night of holiday gift wrapping or memories by the fire. It’s incredibly tangy and tantalizing, teasing every sense with the sweet-savory aroma of orange zest, South Indian Black Tea, and cloves.

If you love simmer pots, and you also love a healthy dose of caffeine to start your morning off right, than this is the tea for you. Lean into the sweet-scented steam before your first sip – it makes the experience even more magical!

Did we mention the added health benefits? Black tea serves as the base for this tea blend – offering rich anti-inflammatory properties that are perfect for soothing a turn-of-the-season sore throat. It’s also one of the most popular among our Tea Kitchen customers!

Holiday Fruit and Spice Blend

Looking for something that tastes and feels like your favorite Christmas memories? Our Holiday Fruit and Spice Blend tea is the best blend for you – infused with the rich flavors of freshly-harvested cinnamon bark, Indian black tea, and spicy, tangy ginger bits. We’ve also included cranberry pieces for their tangy-sweet flavor, pairing perfectly with the warming elements of the other components of the tea. It cuts through well, offering you a nostalgia that will definitely get you in the mood for a little bit of merriness!

That’s not the only benefit, though! Cranberries are considered to be a superfood, offering extensive anti-cancer benefits and increased immune function.

Stock Up on Holiday Favorites With The Tea Kitchen

Looking to get into the holiday spirit? Taste, try, and immerse yourself in the most nostalgic and comforting flavors yet with the Tea Kitchen’s unique blends. Sip and savor all year round, and enjoy our wide selection of Christmas teas and holiday brews. For more information and to shop our store today, visit our website. We look forward to serving you!

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Tea Health Benefits

Top 5 Health Benefits of Hibiscus Tea 

November 4, 2022

Hibiscus tea has gotten a lot of attention over the past few years, and with good reason – this delicious tropical tea has amazing health benefits and a unique, fruit-like flavor that can blend with nearly any of your favorite tea types. It’s been most famously used in Starbucks’ passion tea blend or Panera’s Plum Ginger Hibiscus Tea. It’s also widely available at your local grocery store in standalone form or in a variety of fruit and floral-based flavors. 

Below, we’re exploring the health benefits you can enjoy from hibiscus tea and offering a deeper look inside this tropical tea’s flavor profile. 

Health benefits of hibiscus tea: Is hibiscus tea healthy? 

Hibiscus tea is incredibly healthy, especially in its most basic and unsweetened form. We’ve included the main health benefits of hibiscus tea below: 

1. Lower blood pressure 

According to the CDC, nearly 1 in 2 American adults struggle with hypertension – a condition defined by chronic high blood pressure and spikes. This can be fatal and can lead to lifelong complications such as heart failure, stroke, and other cardiac issues. Lowering blood pressure naturally is key to preemptively managing your risk for hypertension or directly addressing the symptoms of the disease. Hibiscus tea can be especially helpful as it promotes your body’s natural ability to regulate blood pressure and stress-induced vascular strain. 

2. Support liver health 

The liver is a vital organ in your body’s health and wellness process, responsible for metabolism, detoxing, and vitamin and mineral storage. The liver can struggle and be less efficient with high-sugar diets or overuse of alcohol, which are both common occurrences in the daily American diet. Hibiscus tea can naturally address liver strain and fatty build-up and support your liver’s overall function for a higher level of health. 

3. Support health and wellness 

With flu and illness becoming more common, finding sources of natural antioxidants is important to support your overall health and wellness. Many people are looking for a more preventative approach and are choosing to turn to natural sources like tea to support their immune systems.

 Hibiscus tea is a natural source of antioxidants that fight against free radical damage in the body. Antioxidants also stimulate and build your immune system and mitigate the risks you may have for fatal diseases and conditions: such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune conditions. 

4. Weight loss support 

If you’re looking for help managing your weight loss, hibiscus tea can be a healthier alternative to crash diets and juice cleanses. The anthocyanins and phenolic compounds in the tea’s petals and leaves are key to stimulating your metabolism and regulating your body’s natural weight management processes. It also actively works to reduce fat absorption, offering you the potential for lasting results without any radical dietary changes. 

If you do choose to use hibiscus tea for weight loss support, we recommend doing so under the supervision of a trusted medical professional. They’ll be able to evaluate your specific case and physical needs and help you to determine if hibiscus tea is the right choice for your weight management journey. 

5. Lower cholesterol 

There are two types of cholesterol in the body. Ideally, you’ll want higher HDL (high-density lipoprotein) over LDL – or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. LDL has been known as the “bad” cholesterol, as it can lead to arterial blockages, heart disease, and stroke. If you struggle with high cholesterol, you may need medical intervention from your family physician. They’ll be able to prescribe you medication that can help. 

In addition to medication, addressing cholesterol through diet is a useful secondary supportive measure to take, making your medication experience more effective. Hibiscus tea is known to support lower LDL levels in the body due to its naturally occurring bioactive compounds. Regular drinkers saw improvement in just one month, in one of the most recent approved studies. 

What does hibiscus tea taste like? 

Hibiscus tea tastes naturally sweet, light, and floral, giving way to more rich and tart undertones. Many compare the mouthfeel and deeper flavor notes to cranberries, crabapple, or darker tropical fruits, finishing with a clean and refreshing taste that you’ll love. The taste of hibiscus tea may vary depending on how you choose to enjoy your tea. Generally, the lighter notes may come out more with cold brew methods. The tangy-sweet and bold flavors show up more with hotter blends. 

Hibiscus tea is a fantastic herbal tea to blend with, working well with a variety of fruity and floral inclusions. If you like to drink it plain and are looking for ways to spice it up, consider adding in lemons, lemonade, brown sugar, or mint. 

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Tea Health Benefits

Best Postpartum Teas For New Moms

June 29, 2022

Having a baby is one of the most exciting times of your life — but no one prepares you for the mental and physical strain that can come with it. Teas and natural supplements are an excellent way to support your healing and wellness journey as you navigate through the first postpartum months and can help you to create healthy habits that extend well beyond the newborn years. Below, we’re covering our top tea suggestions for new moms. We’ll also be discussing the different ways you can benefit from them, helping you thrive during this transition period. 

What are the best teas for new moms? 

If you’re a new mom, you are likely looking for naturally healthy ways to support your body through the postpartum transition phase. You’re likely looking for teas that are safe to enjoy while breastfeeding and that can boost your overall energy and wellness during the long days (and even longer nights!) You may even want to treat yourself to an early Mother’s Day tea gift to kick off the self-care and healing process. We’re here to support you on your journey. Below, we’ve listed the best teas that new moms can enjoy to support their mental and physical health. 

1. Chamomile tea 

Chamomile tea can be incredibly soothing to enjoy throughout the postpartum process and can support regular, healthy, and rejuvenating sleep and anxiety reduction and mental health support. You can easily find chamomile at the store, and it is often affordably priced. Chamomile can be enjoyed either hot or iced and tastes delicious with a squeeze of lemon or honey. It is also considered safe for use in those who choose to breastfeed, with no known adverse effects for the mom or the infant through milk transmission. 

2. Peppermint Tea 

If you’re dealing with hormonal swings, you may be dealing with excessive nausea and gastrointestinal dysregulation. Peppermint tea can help you to keep nausea at bay, offering you a soothing drink to enjoy for postpartum support. Peppermint can also assist you in feeling more alert and awake, which is always helpful to combat those sleepless nights in the first few months. It also offers a variety of other health benefits to enjoy in every cup, including headache relief and respiratory support for postpartum rhinitis. Its soothing, minty flavor also makes for a delicious drink to enjoy at any time of day or night. 

3. Dandelion tea 

Dandelion tea is often overlooked during pregnancy — but new moms can enjoy great postpartum benefits with a few cups a day. Dandelion tea is considered safe for breastfeeding moms to enjoy and can even work to actively boost breastmilk production. You can also enjoy the additional boost of vitamins that you can get with every cup, as the tea is rich in restorative and supportive Vitamin C and Vitamin A. These vitamins can also help the skin to repair tears and stretches, which can aid in your healing process from either type of birth process. 

4. Rooibos tea 

Rooibos tea is an excellent herbal alternative for moms looking for a caffeine-free way to start their day. Black and green teas, while delicious, have higher amounts of caffeine, which can disrupt the baby’s sleep schedule through breastmilk. This allows moms to enjoy a healthier alternative that will not remain present through the milk. Rooibos works actively to lower your stress levels and rejuvenate your body, allowing you to experience more clarity and energy throughout your day without the buzz of caffeine. 

5. Nettle Leaf tea 

Nettle tea works actively in balancing your histamine load, making it an effective tea against postpartum allergy attacks and inflammation in the body. This can potentially aid in the recovery process from childbirth. It is also incredibly effective at boosting your natural breastmilk supply, which is an excellent benefit for those who struggle with underproduction. The flavor of nettle leaf is far different from what you might think, as nettle offers a very “green,” grassy taste that is mild and lightly flavorful. It can be made even gentler with a dash of your favorite sweetener and a sprig of mint. 

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Tea Recipes

Tea Sweeteners You Can Use To Make Your Next Tea That Much MoreDelicious

June 27, 2022

Every cup of tea is unique — just like the person enjoying it. We all have specific ways to enjoy our favorite brew, but sometimes it’s good to mix it up a little. The next time you reach for your favorite leaves, consider trying a new type of sweetener than your favorite go-to. After all,  no two sweeteners are alike, with different additions often offering a rich and delicious, more nuanced taste to your favorite tea blends. Below, we’re discussing five of the most popular ways to sweeten tea below and covering the health benefits and taste profiles of each. 

What is the healthiest way to use tea sweeteners?

This question is entirely subjective and depends on the user’s health goals. The best way to sweeten your tea is to consider if you’re looking for a sugar substitute. Those who have diabetes may be interested in such an option or those trying to lose weight. If so, you may consider safe plant-based alternatives that aren’t as glycemic all demanding. 

If not, you might consider a more organic or whole food alternative to traditionally bleached table sugar. You also may benefit from reviewing the six main types of teas and flavor profiles that you’re looking for and experimenting with different sweeteners across your favorite blends.  Dietary goal setting is your first step to help you determine what the healthiest way to sweeten tea is for your unique physical needs. 

Below, we’ve outlined some of the top tea sweeteners that you can enjoy for your next cup of tea: 

1. Raw sugar 

What is the difference between raw sugar and table sugar? Fundamentally, they come from the same source. The only difference between raw and regular sugar is the refinement process. There is no proven health benefit to either one besides acting as an additional form of energy. Raw sugar is slightly less refined and maintains certain levels of molasses in its final form. With traditional table sugar, you will not see any of the molasses content, and it will often go through an additional bleaching or refinement process. Raw and traditional sugar make delicious additions to your favorite teas, often pairing well with high-quality loose leaf green tea with it’s lighter, grassier flavors. 

2. Agave 

Agave does not come from sugarcane, instead sourced from the agave plant. It is as refined as sugar but is made of fructose instead of sucrose. This allows it to have a lower glycemic index while still offering double or triple the sweetness of traditional table sugar. This powerful sweetness also means that you can use less over time, which is a cost-effective benefit that you can enjoy. You can also use your agave outside of tea time as a naturally-sourced sweetener for your next amazing tea infused brownie recipe (or dessert of choice!) 

3. Honey 

Honey has long been associated with tea time, with its rich, golden stream and botanical flavors to enjoy. Honey is unique because it will take on different flavors based on whatever plants the bees have recently pollinated. This is why regional honey often has different tastes depending on where you travel. Honey is a fantastic inclusion to any tea blend of choice, tasting particularly delicious against the bold palettes of black caffeinated blends. However, while honey offers a deliciously scented, warm addition to your favorite cup of tea, it is incredibly high in glucose and is not considered vegan. These are essential considerations to take for more conscientious tea drinkers. 

4. Stevia 

Stevia has risen in popularity over the years, becoming a popular “sugar-free” option to enjoy in your favorite teas, drinks, and desserts. Stevia is harvested from plants in the chrysanthemum family, giving it a more deep, floral taste than traditional sugars. Before its rise in popularity in America, it was a favorite in South America and the Asian islands. While it comes in many forms, the FDA currently has only approved the crystallized form available at grocery stores for safe ingestion. Additional studies will continue to be done on the effect of pure leaves used for edible purposes. Stevia is safe for diabetic patients as it promotes lower blood sugar levels than traditional sugar. 

5. Maple Syrup 

While this is untraditional, maple syrup can give any of your favorite fall teas a delicious, earthy flavor. Depending on how you source your maple syrup, you may enjoy additional health benefits along with its unique and deep flavor profile. This sweetener can be used seamlessly in virtually any tea blend of choice and adds an infusion of “fall” into every cup. You can also use it interchangeably with sugar in your favorite tea time recipe or dessert. 

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Tea History & Culture

Authentic European Tea Tradition: Make an Unforgettable Tea Party in 2022 

June 23, 2022

Are you looking to take your tea party up a notch? Step into the world of the past and enjoy historically accurate tea party traditions to add the perfect details to your next gathering. Many of our modern-day tea rituals come from Europe, which is why we’re exploring some of the top ways that you can make your tea party one to remember. Read on to learn about some of the top European tea traditions that you can include in your next gathering today. 

Are Western tea traditions rooted in European rituals? 

While European tea traditions are extremely popular and present in many of the United States tea traditions in 2022, there is also a heavy Eastern influence from the Asian and Middle Eastern regions, islands, and nations. 

What are European-inspired Western tea traditions? 

Below, we’ve listed some of the more prevalent European influences that you can find or add to your next tea party gathering. 

1. Tea sandwiches and snacks served 

There hasn’t always been a history of delicious snacks served at tea time. While there may have been other instances of food being served alongside hot or iced teas, the tradition was largely attributed to having been started by the Duchess of Bedford, Anna Maria Stanhope, in 1840. The entire design of this shift was to clearly differentiate a time between lunch and dinner meals that would allow tea-takers to rest and recharge with food and drink. There was also a heavy influence from the European concept of hospitality, as it gave hostesses and royalty a chance to show off their lavish wealth and gilded sets. 

In present-day America, there’s a good chance that you’re already incorporating snacks into your tea-time routine — especially if you’re hosting a large gathering or tea party. However, it’s likely that you’re looking to go a little “bigger” and “better” for your next event. It may be time to toss the cucumber sandwiches and dive into these tea-inspired eats, like these delicious matcha-infused tea desserts. 

Looking for the ultimate guide for the perfect tea time pairing? Check out our guide to tea-food matching. 

2. Timing of tea: Have you tried “elevenses”? 

Looking for a morning with more of a kick? Host a caffeinated tea and coffee-based “elevenses” — a cultural British refreshment hour between breakfast and lunch, featuring a hot or iced beverage and the company of your closest friends. While there isn’t a specific person attributed to this trend, it is historically shown to have become popular in the mid-1800s. This also aligns with the timeline that teas began to become more diverse and distributed throughout the European region, which began in the mid-1600s and spread more rapidly as transportation channels grew in the 1700s and 1800s. 

The concept of elevenses really focuses on the time of day that you choose to indulge and may be a great way for early risers and exhausted folks to enjoy some time to recharge in the midday with their families and friends. You can enjoy a tea party every day with this habitual inclusion! You can make your elevenses more delicious with the addition of a quality, caffeinated black tea blend, or a soothing and energizing green tea to kick off the second half of your workday. 

Making tea midday for your elevenses can also be a form of meditation in itself. If you find yourself struggling with anxiety and stress, use elevenses to enjoy a more mindful and present experience through tea making and celebration. Your family and friends will enjoy it too! 

3. Set table seating, arrangements, and decor 

The art of decor and seat arrangement at a tea party was emphasized throughout the European tea craze, especially as royalty began to adopt the concept of the then-newfangled tea gatherings. Today, it still is very important and is highlighted as a way to be a more gracious and considerate host. In 19th century Europe, the goal of these parties was to gossip and speak freely. Hosts would set the scene with lavish decorations, arrangements, and crisp white linens to highlight the gemlike tones of the fruits and the natural color of the tea. They would also insist on specific seating arrangements in accordance with the publication from Lady Gertrude Elizabeth Campbell in 1893 — which highlighted the importance of arranged seating to avoid a large circle of chairs in the garden — which would hinder the spread of gossip and good conversation. 

Your goal at your tea party likely isn’t gossip. However, in the casual age, you can add a unique touch of tradition by using your best linens, china, and tea sets as you would have in that historical period. You can also feel free to indulge in a little “tea” yourself…we won’t tell! 

Looking for inspiration for your table setting and theme? Be sure to check out Hadley Court’s guide to a traditionally decorated tea party! 

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Tea Health Benefits

5 Top Health Benefits of Oolong Tea 

June 21, 2022

Oolong tea has been enjoyed for centuries — rising to popularity in the Eastern world during the Tang dynasty. It’s been commonly used as a delicious daily drink and enjoyed for its lighter, floral taste. Tea enthusiasts can also enjoy various health benefits with regular consumption, making this tea one of the top blends to reach for in your tea cabinet. Below, we’re covering what oolong tea is, the tastes of oolong tea, and the benefits that you can enjoy in every cup. 

What is oolong tea made of? 

Oolong tea is brewed from the leaves and buds of the Camellia Sinensis plant, placing it in the same family as black and green tea blends. While they are related, oolong has a unique taste and mouthfeel compared to its more bold, herbaceous siblings. You can expect a lighter, fruity taste and a more rich sipping experience with oolong. This is due to the duration of fermentation time compared to black and green teas. It’s allowed to gain some oxidation in the fermentation process, but not so much that it would place it in the same taste category as a black tea blend. 

Is oolong tea healthy for you? 

Oolong tea is healthy for you and is safe to consume daily as part of your routine. There are many health benefits that tea drinkers can enjoy with every cup of oolong tea. We’ve listed them below: 

1. Lower blood sugar levels 

Oolong tea works actively to lower blood sugar levels, making it an ideal drink of choice for those who struggle with diabetes or hypoglycemia. A Japanese study has found that drinking oolong tea resulted in 30% lower blood sugar levels for drinkers across the board. Caffeine, also found in oolong, has been positively correlated with lower sugar levels. Regularly drinking oolong tea can promote pancreatic health, proper function, and regulation, making this a strong choice of tea for those to use preventatively to promote total body wellness. 

2. Boost antioxidant levels 

Antioxidants help your body minimize the risk of cancer and other diseases. Oolong tea offers your body a powerful boost, giving higher doses of antioxidants than its related black or green tea blends. They also work more effectively in fighting mutations and free radicals that could potentially affect your body’s proper function. Oolong teas are great if you’re looking to boost your immune system and there are many flu-fighting teas used preventatively by many during the peak of flu season.

3. Support digestion and gut health

Oolong tea has been frequently associated with gut health and support. Frequently drinking oolong after heavy or rich meals can help your body metabolize the food more effectively and lower the risk of bloating or digestive upset. It also is a potent alkalizer in your gut, which can assist those who struggle with acid reflux or GERD. Oolong is a popular tea to enjoy with your meal, as the tastes are very mild and fruity. It goes with far more palettes and flavor profiles than its other black or green tea relatives, featuring a less bitter taste and a more palatable flavor and feel.

4. Weight loss support 

Drinking oolong tea regularly can help support your weight loss journey. This is due to the combination of polyphenols and caffeine, which promote a faster-operating speed for your metabolism and food breakdown in the gut. You can enjoy a higher caloric burn rate when you regularly drink oolong tea. The effects of oolong on your metabolism also continue after you fall asleep, making this a very effective means of weight loss. Caffeine, for example, stops affecting your burn rate once you fall asleep. Green tea can also assist with weight loss, and can be a delicious addition to your favorite oolong blend. 

5. Enjoy better sleep and more resiliency 

Oolong has been used to support sleep and emotional resiliency. It is often affiliated with relaxation due to its high levels of L-theanine. This acts as a soothing element in the brain and is known for its ability to boost dopamine and serotonin levels. This influences your mood and overall cortisol levels, providing added resiliency to assist you in managing stress and tension. 

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Tea Health Benefits

Top 5 Benefits of Valerian Root Tea 

May 25, 2022

Looking for a new tea to try? Valerian root tea comes with a variety of health-savvy benefits and a unique taste, which is why it’s become an underrated favorite for many tea enthusiasts. You’ll be sure to enjoy the woody, earthen notes that this tea has to offer, giving you a foundation for delicious and full-bodied blends when mixed with other teas.

You can also try a variety of other loose leaf herbal tea blends that contain valerian root in the tea blend. A specific option could be a sweet dreams herbal tea we offer.

Below, we cover the taste of valerian root tea, common favorite pairings and blends with valerian root, and the top five health benefits of valerian root tea. 

What does valerian root tea taste like? 

Valerian root tea tastes very intensely herbaceous and oaky, infused with the deep flavors of wood and earth. The smell is powerful when you brew, especially if you are not used to it. However, the taste is milder than the smell. If you choose to shorten your overall brew time, you can savor the lighter, grassy flavors in the tea’s composition—the longer you brew, the deeper and more full-bodied flavor that you can expect. 

What teas pair well with valerian root tea? 

Valerian root tea is delicious to enjoy on its own. Some tea drinkers like to add a splash of lemon juice and a few teaspoons of honey for a gentler taste. However, valerian root is an excellent addition to your favorite infusion teas. Below are a few ideas for some five-star pairings you can enjoy with valerian root tea: 

Valerian root and chamomile 

Blending these two flavors will leave you with a soft, springtime flavor that goes down smoothly. This mix is delicious hot or iced and is the perfect tea to sip on during a busy day. The addition of chamomile supports resiliency and peace under tension, which is the perfect blend to help keep you level and calm through your busy to-do list. 

Valerian root and lemon balm 

Valerian root has soothing properties on its own. When paired with the energizing properties of lemon balm, these two teas work synergistically to help you be more present, focused, and calm under times of mental strain.  

What are the health benefits of valerian root tea? 

Valerian root tea offers a variety of supportive health benefits and can be paired with other teas to amplify the effect. We’ve listed a few of the top valerian root tea benefits below: 

1. Migraine support 

Since ancient times, Valerian root has been used to support those who struggle with headaches and chronic migraines. The plant’s buds and leaves have been used historically as a sedative, supporting migraine sufferers with preventative treatment strategies that work to minimize migraine-inducing stress and tension. It’s been clinically proven to lessen the frequency, duration, and severity of migraines for a number of sufferers, making this an excellent natural way to avoid migraines. 

2. Anxiety relief 

Drinking valerian root tea can help support those who struggle with anxiety disorders. It’s been shown that valerian root can both increase the amount of GABA, the “calming chemical,”  in the brain (causing an effect similar to how Xanax works for those who struggle with panic) and works to bind to GABA receptors: promoting an even higher level of “free” GABA in the brain. If you’re looking for other tea options to help you de-stress, be sure to try our selection of quality green teas.

3. Higher sleep quality 

Insomnia and sleep disturbances can severely affect your overall quality of life. Taking valerian root tea regularly before bed can help you to reach a higher overall quality level of sleep, as well as improve the duration and lessen the time it takes to fall asleep. Enjoying a cup of tea a few hours before bed can help your body enter a state of rest and relaxation in preparation for a rejuvenating rest. 

(Check out our list of favorites here.) 

4. Reduced menopause symptoms 

If you’re struggling with hormonal shifts caused by menopause, valerian root tea is a great tool to use for hormonal support. It can specifically reduce the occurrence and severity of hot flashes, and provide overall hormonal balancing and regulative properties. It also has little to no side effects, making it an ideal option for those who are not interested in trying HRT for hormonal symptom management. 

5. Mental health support 

Enjoying valerian root tea regularly can help support those who are struggling with depressive thoughts. Valerian has been used and praised for its sedative properties, allowing those who take it to reach higher levels of peace and balance. Getting to this place of calm is often what those who struggle emotionally need to continue to seek healing. 

There are many other teas that can support, reduce, or shorten the duration of mental health symptoms in tandem with a treatment plan from your provider. Click here to view the full list of emotionally supportive teas.

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Tea Health Benefits

Effects of Caffeine on The Human Body 

May 24, 2022

Caffeine is what so many of us use to get through our day…but do you really know what it’s doing to your body? Studies have shown that caffeine is neutral, or even beneficial in small doses. However, drinking it in excess can lead to serious health complications. Below, we’re covering the effects of caffeine on the human body by each system, and calling awareness to foods that have hidden caffeine — and that should be consumed in moderation. 

What is caffeine? 

Caffeine can be found either naturally, such as in tea, or artificially — such as in energy drinks or other beverages like soft drinks. In the body, it directly affects the brain’s uptake of a compound called adenosine. Adenosine works actively to make us feel drowsy, and will be secreted naturally at the end of the day, and rises in concentrations until we eventually fall asleep. By blocking the receptors that accept adenosine, caffeine is very effective at keeping you awake. 

What are the effects of caffeine on the human body? 

Beyond what we have discussed, there are many other effects that caffeine has on the human body. We’ve explained them systematically below: 

The cardiovascular system

Caffeine’s effects on heart rates are well known. In excess, you can experience palpitations, hypertension, and other complications from caffeine, either natural or artificial. The reason why caffeine has a direct effect on your heart is due to its ability to stimulate the “fight or flight” compounds in the body: noradrenaline and norepinephrine. This can be dangerous if you build up a tolerance over time, and begin boosting your intake to feel the same effects that you once did. 

The digestive system 

Caffeine is known to stimulate your digestive system and can aid in motility-related problems. The result of this is that food and beverages will move much quicker through the digestive tract, and can result in loose stool passing quickly through your colon. This only happens in some people, as others may not be as sensitive to its effects, or may have built up a tolerance over time. 

The neurological system 

What many may not know about caffeine is its direct effects on the neurological system. Overall, caffeine intake can reduce blood flow to the brain, but boost the amount of energy that it expends. It also triggers the release of dopamine in the brain. This stimulates the reward centers and pleasure centers, making you feel satisfied. It’s no wonder that so many people are dependent on their first cup of morning coffee! 

The skeletal system 

Caffeine consumption can block the absorption of calcium in your bones, which can put you at risk for conditions such as osteoporosis, or recurring fracture. It also actively lowers your bone mineral density, which makes your bones more porous over time. There are also ongoing studies that point to the potential correlation of caffeine consumption and obesity rates, as it may inhibit the body’s natural weight regulation processes. 

Is caffeine bad for you? 

Caffeine isn’t inherently bad for you, especially when consumed in moderation. The risk of caffeine comes with overconsumption, as with anything else. In fact, caffeine actually has some benefits that you can enjoy with your daily cup, including: 

  • Memory: You can get a hearty memory boost when you enjoy caffeine, and also get a powerful jolt of energy. That’s why so many people enjoy a morning cup of coffee or tea, as it can help you to feel energized, alert, and ready to take on your day. 
  • Preventative wellness: Enjoying caffeine regularly through tea or coffee is linked to lower rates of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Research continues to be ongoing to discover additional effects. 

If you’re looking to cut down your consumption of caffeine, you’re likely wondering how much caffeine your daily cup of tea has. Caffeination levels in tea aren’t generally calculated with exacting formulas and science. They are estimated and rounded to get you the most accurate level possible. It also depends entirely on your blend of tea. If you’re drinking a cup of loose leaf black tea, you’re likely averaging 47mg of caffeine per cup.

What foods have naturally occurring caffeine in them? 

There are a variety of food and beverages that have naturally occurring caffeine in them, including: 

  • Chocolate 
  • Black tea
  • White tea
  • Green tea
  • Guarana 
  • Coffee

If you’re looking to avoid caffeine, you can opt for caffeine-free versions of these foods, or avoid them entirely. There are plenty of loose leaf herbal tea options online and or decaf teas you can find too. Ultimately, it’s finding what works for you in your journey of a full caffeine or free of caffeine lifestyle, but likely you’re somewhere in the middle!

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Tea Recipes

Tea Party Favorites: Ten Top Snacks for Your Next Gathering 

May 18, 2022

There’s nothing quite as social and fun as a tea party. With lessened pandemic restrictions, we’re seeing more and more people gather for parties with their friends and loved ones. Or, maybe you feel like having a tea-centered date night with you and a partner. No matter what type of event you’re planning, there’s one inspiration that you can draw from for all of them: the delicious food you can pair with any number of loose leaf tea options.  If you’re looking for the perfect snacks for your next gathering, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into the ten top snacks and favorites that you can make for your next tea party. 

What type of food is served at a tea party? 

Tea parties are known for their light eats and snacks that are generally enjoyed after lunch but before dinner. Because of this, we want to avoid anything excessively rich or fried. If you do have something that’s rich (i.e. lemon curd,) it’s served with something that is light to give the visitor the best of both experiences without overpowering the tea. Food made should be complementary to the tea, so we also want to avoid any overly strong flavors or smells that would dull the taste and sensory experience of the tea. 

1. Mixed Berry Tartlets 

Tarts are delicious at a tea party, no matter what filling is used. Tartlets are even better and give you the full taste and experience of a tart without being excessively heavy or large. This mixed berry tartlet is an excellent pick to kick off your tea party, as its rich custard filling is tempered by the light, floral-tasting fruit and berry mixture. The crust is buttery soft and flakes to the touch, making this the perfect snack to enjoy next to a cup of your favorite tea.

2. Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies with Lemon Glaze 

What better snack for your tea party than a snack that intermingles delicious flavors with raw, pure-tasting Earl Grey tea? These shortbread cookies are decadent without being too heavy and offer a delicious, crumbled texture. The lemon glaze offers that familiar “zing” that you can enjoy with lemon in tea and makes the flavor profile brighter and more suitable for similar teas. We know you won’t be able to get enough of this delicious cookie! 

 3. Charcuterie Boards with Extra Cheese 

We know that this suggestion comes as a surprise to many of you, but rich and harder cheeses can actually pair excellently with tea. This is especially true in the case of a charcuterie board, where you can enjoy a variety of other bread, biscuits, jams, and treats alongside your cup! Our favorite unconventional pairings include a Creme Brulee Oolong tea with a rich, salty-savory sheep’s milk cheese, or another loose leaf black tea alongside some imported French Camembert. You can always mix and match pairings for yourself as well, and see if anything else unconventional and new suits your taste preference! 

Looking for more new tea recipes to try? Check out our top list of tea-infused desserts you won’t be able to put down!

 4. Basil & Shrimp Tea Sandwiches

This sandwich is more nutrient-dense than most tea sandwich types you’ll see and is perfect for a late afternoon tea that will precede your lighter dinner choices. The shrimp provides a nutty, sweet flavor to the spread that cuts nicely with the herby notes of the basil, making this the perfect sandwich to enjoy next to a cup of herbal tea. This recipe is also rare to find used, so we believe that this will be the “one” to impress your next tea party guests! 

5. Mini Quiches 

Mini quiches are delicious and exceptionally easy to make, despite their complex and rich flavor profile. Quiches are very versatile as well, allowing you to adapt the taste and additions to your overall taste and preference. This recipe can be made in minutes, using items you find around the house, in your fridge, and with your mini muffin tin. Greet your guests with the delicious smell of their tea party favorites and your favorite tea blends…we’re sure you won’t be able to get enough! 

6. Mini Lemon Meringue Pies 

This recipe is a bit more involved, but nothing quite beats the flavor and freshness that mini lemon meringues can bring to your next gathering or celebration. These pies feature a rich, creamy meringue topping and the famous lemon-pie filling that blends perfectly with really any flavored tea blend you choose. They are delicious, light, and the overall perfect tea snack for any season or occasion — but we especially love these in the summer months. 

7. Smoked Salmon Canapes 

While this one may seem unconventional, it’s another blend that can’t be missed at your next gathering. Smoked salmon is delicious in any vessel or recipe, and offers that unique, savory-smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with a variety of tea blends. Smoked salmon has become fairly easy to find at your local grocery store, making this recipe both easy to make and next-level tasty for your next tea party! 

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