chamomile tea

Five Teas That Will Get Rid of Your Hangover

March 18, 2022

We’ve all had those night where we have one to many drinks at happy hour with friends and we wake up feeling not our best. Alcohol being incredibly dehydrating will result in symptoms like headache, dry mouth and fatigue when you’re hungover, which is why you need to hydrate as much as possible while restoring your body’s electrolyte balance. One of the best ways to do this is with teas. We’ve put together a list of our top teas to help kick your hangover.

Before we jump into the teas best for a hangover, it’s important that we discuss some things to avoid. IF you are not used to consuming lots of caffeine, do not overload on it while trying to get rid of your hangover symptoms. Too much caffeine can further accentuate the symptoms. If your stomach is already reeling, your head is already spinning and you already feel dizzy, you don’t need another jolt. You definitely don’t need another stimulant, especially if you suffer from hangover shakes. One to two cups is more than enough to add to drinking plenty of water to get back to your normal self again!

Matcha

Matcha is praised for all its benefits as a superfood so it’s no wonder that it is great for the day after drinking. Matcha is not only loaded with antioxidants, it also has the caffeine and chlorophyll to help pick you back up! It is essentially a trifecta combination to help you kick it back into gear. Caffeine helps to reduce your headache, the antioxidants help your body detox, and the chlorophyll acts to restore the natural balance in your body. An added benefit is that Matcha is also known to have the ability to protect your liver. Since it is high in caffeine, we suggest only one cup of matcha when combatting your hangover. Too much caffeine can make you jittery and make the hangover process more difficult.

Pro tip: To maximize your matcha, add coconut water or coconut milk. The day after a big night your body is craving electrolytes. Add this to your cup, hot to iced, will make it that much more effective!

Ginger Tea

We have been using ginger for years and years to help treat all sorts of ailments. Rich in antioxidants and full of rich spice, ginger tea is a beloved option at any time of day, whether you’ve been drinking or not. Ginger is known to help calm your stomach and elevate nausea thanks to its active ingredient, gingerol! This ingredient is one reason why pregnant women suffering from morning sickness often nibble on ginger snaps or hard ginger candy to help keep their bellies calm. Studies have also shown its effective in reducing joint and muscle pain. Our lemon ginger herbal tea is the perfect tea to sip on as it has no caffeine and has a boost of lemon in it!

If you do not have a ginger tea handy, you can certainly use raw ginger by adding it to boiling water. A little splash of lemon will make for the ideal soothing hangover tea.

Turmeric Tea

Turmeric is well known for its anti-inflamitory properties so it could help with the hangover headache. It is also known to stimulate blood flow and metabolism which helps to boost detoxification. Its anti-inflammatory properties are also known to soothe and restore the skin from the inside out, and help with overall gut health. Many blends of Turmeric tea also contain ginger which is known to help with nausea, as stated above.

Another great hangover tea choice is herbal chamomile tea. You’ll probably have some hidden in the kitchen and it’s a fantastic feel-good tea. It is great at helping settle the stomach and being caffeine-free, with every soothing sip, it provides a healing boost to your nervous system. It’s been used traditionally for centuries to settle upset nerves and is an easy-to-drink tea when hungover. The active ingredient in chamomile is apigenin which has been studied for its stress-relieving properties.

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Tea Health Benefits

5 Best Teas to Reduce Stress

September 13, 2021

Feeling stressed or experiencing elevated anxiety? Unwind with a soothing cup of tea. Tea is the best natural way to relieve stress and reduce anxiety. It offers relaxing properties and a list of other added benefits for your health. Please note that a doctor should be consulted in order to establish a proper routine for care and treatment of anxiety or stress.

1. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile Tea is a popular herbal tea that is made from the flowers of the Chamomile plant. Aside from it’s long list of health benefits including providing digestive relief, controlling blood sugar levels, and boosting your immune system, Chamomile Tea is also known to reduce anxiety and stress. According to an article on Medical News Today, many researchers believe that Chamomile tea can function as a benxodiazepine, a prescription drug that can induce sleep and reduce anxiety. Since Chamomile is an herb, it will not provide as large of an effect as a pharmaceutical drug but can still show benefits. It has been used for years by many different cultures, and can also be served in supplement form. Chamomile tea is safe to consume and has a recommended dose of 1 to 4 cups of tea daily.

2. Green Tea

Green tea contains an amino acid called Theanine that is a known constituent that effects the central nervous system. It’s mood-altering effects provide relaxing benefits that can be beneficial to someone suffering from anxiety or stress. It can affect certain chemicals in the brain, including serotonin and dopamine. Serotonin and dopamine which are neurotransmitters that are known to regulate bodily functions such as emotion. It is important to note that green tea contains caffeine and caffeine can alter the effects of theanine. As proven in a study by the U.S. National Library of Medicine: National Institutes of Health, reduced stress and improved sleep quality can be caused by reduced caffeine content in green tea.

3. Peppermint Tea

Peppermint Tea is another popular herbal tea that has proven health benefits including relieving tension, improving energy, and inducing sleep. Peppermint teas are packed with relaxing effects to help relieve stress and ease your mind. The menthol within the peppermint allows your muscles to relax amidst any ongoing stress or anxiety. When your muscles are relaxed, it is also easier to fall asleep. Peppermint tea can also reduce your body temperature and blood pressure, which in result will help you to better relax. Naturally, peppermint tea does not contain any caffeine and it can relieve tension in your sinus is and head which is beneficial if you are sick. Peppermint tea can also be consumed to relieve cramping or body aches.

4. Lavender Tea

Lavender tea is another soothing herbal tea that can help calm your nerves which results in reduced stress and anxiety relief. Lavender is also a popular aromatherapy scent that can be produced in essential oil form. It is known for its soothing scent and clarifying properties. When consumed in tea form, lavender can help improve the quality of your sleep. Lavender extract can also be found in supplement form and should be consumed with caution. When taking anything that may have an effect on your central nervous system it is important to consult a doctor or other health care professional who can better guide you on how to use and consume the product safely. Aside from its soothing properties, lavender tea can also improve the quality of your skin. The anti-inflammatory properties found in lavender extract can help diminish the appearance of inflammation on your skin.

5. Lemon Balm Tea

According to WebMD, lemon balm is a perennial herb from the mint family. It produces a calming effect that can be used to treat insomnia, stress, and anxiety. Similar to lavender, it is another popular essential oil that is used for aromatherapy purposes to achieve soothing effects. Lemon balm tea contains powerful antioxidants that can combat sickness and create an alert effect on your central nervous system. Lemon balm tea contains rosmarinic acid, which is known to boost brain activity.

Self-care is the best way to show compassion for your body in a physical and mental capacity. Whether you are feeling slightly anxious or have a lingering feeling of stress, decompress with a nice cup of tea and experience the anti-stress factors associated with the teas listed above. Not only will you experience soothing and relaxing benefits from consuming these teas but other health benefits as well which can play a role on your mood and brain function. It is important to remember that anxiety is a mood disorder that should be diagnosed by a doctor or other health care professional. If you suffer from anxiety, please consult a doctor before looking to tea as a solution.

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Types of Tea

5 Modern Rituals Surrounding a Simple Cup of Tea

June 1, 2017

Just over 240 years have passed since the Sons of Liberty defiantly tossed an entire shipment of tea into the Boston harbor. And so began the Revolutionary War. In the aftermath of the Boston Tea Party, John Adams wrote letters to his wife that professed his love for tea, but admitted his reluctant switch over to coffee. Apparently, tea had become unpatriotic and lost its appeal. Thus, coffee began it’s reign.

Needless to say, we have a complicated relationship with tea in the States.

But regardless of where it’s being consumed, tea stands apart from coffee for a variety of reasons. One of the most interesting, perhaps, is the idea of “ritual” that seems to follow tea around like a pre-requisite. It may be an echo of rituals across the globe. It might also be the very nature of tea – the time it takes to brew and the variety of flavors that lend itself to a more sophisticated appreciation than a cup of coffee.

We could write an entire book on all of the ancient rituals surrounding tea. Instead, let’s explore the rituals that exist today that are often left overlooked:

1. The Children’s Tea Party

You’d be hard pressed to find a six year old who doesn’t know what a tea party is, let alone have organized one themselves. It’s almost a phenomenon – what other social event do kids regularly orchestrate on their own? Childhood tea parties are not only incredibly adorable, they are also surprisingly well thought out. The table is set, “guests” gather around, (imaginary) tea is poured and sometimes cookies even make an appearance. Thank you Ye Olde English children’s stories for keeping tea parties alive.

2. The Morning Cup of Tea

First things first, let’s be clear: tea in the morning requires an entirely different process than coffee. A (good) morning cup of tea requires that you heat water, steep your leaves, and wait. And wait…It’s kind of a zen experience, having to wait for your caffeine. Even if you decide to go to a cafe rather than brew at home, you never quite escape the patience that tea insists.

3. The Iced Black Tea and Lemonade

Or, as most people call them, Arnold Palmers (we have our own spin on that from National Lemonade Day). This drink has made a name for itself over the last several years. It started with a golf hero, but it’s fair to assume that few of the 20-something’s that regularly order the well-known beverage have a clue who the man actually is. The ritual lives in routine, and it’s always refreshing to know tea can seamlessly transition into warmer months and trendier libations.

4. The “Sick Day” Tea

“You should drink some tea.” How many times have you heard that advice when you had a runny nose or sore throat? It’s such common sense at this point, and yet you can’t get away from the suggestion. There is a conception, and a valid one, that tea has healing properties. We aren’t doctors, but the doctors we know tell us this is more or less true. Now just imagine that moment after a long day of work and a nasty head cold when you take your first sip of piping hot chamomile tea with lemon, breathing in the steam. It truly feels like you’re drinking a magical healing elixir.

5. The Pot of Tea

This always feels like a big one. A full pot of tea seems to separate the casual drinkers from the die hard. Tea, typically, is a sipping drink. A pot of tea is an hour of your life that you have dedicated to tea (and usually something else… We’re not crazy, we realize you’re probably reading a book or working on a paper too). In that moment, when you fill your pot or order a full pot at the neighborhood cafe, you’ve established yourself as a real “tea drinker.” In our books, that’s a pretty awesome commitment.

We invite you to join us and share your favorite tea ritual.

Tell us. Share with us. Join in and help paint the picture of tea.

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Tea Recipes

7 Tea Cocktail Recipes to Try this Spring

March 7, 2016

So we’ve shown you how to bake with tea and pair it with food, but what about how to drink with it?When you initially think of tea, there’s a good chance you don’t associate it with alcohol or going out. Tea has been around for centuries and has definitely had its fair exposure to the cocktail world. But for some reason, it seems to have lost its popularity in cocktails. We want to change that. We’ve found some of the best tea cocktails on the internet and can’t wait to test them out.

Chai Tea Cocktail

We love this recipe because it’s so simple and sounds delicious! Enjoy it in the fall with some pumpkin baked goods or in the summer over ice on the beach. Regardless of where you test this out, you really can never go wrong with chai in any form.

Iced Green Tea Mojito

Who doesn’t want to get rich antioxidants while simultaneously relaxing with a cocktail? This mojito does it all and will surely serve as the perfect summer drink. The ingredients are all very simple, so odds are you probably already have them. And did we mention it’s only 110 calories?! What more is there to love.

Adult Iced Tea

This tasty but strong drink is sure to satisfy your craving for iced tea and, apparently, tastes just like the real thing! This recipe uses Earl Grey and is perfect for hot summer days. Relax and enjoy this by the pool, but make sure to take it slow.

White Peach and Green Tea Bellini

This recipe is by far our favorite. This peachy and summery drink is perfect to enjoy anytime and even has a small caffeine kick. We love the mix of flavors and how refreshing this drink is.You can even use Starbucks Teavana Shaken Iced Peach Green Tea to make your job a little easier.

Earl Grey Tea Cocktail

This cocktail has a great energy boost to start the night off. Its mild but classic flavor makes it perfect to enjoy at any time of the year. It’s also relatively healthy compared to nearly every other cocktail out there. The recipe calls for some lavender sprigs, which are definitely worth getting and make the drink much more flavorful!

Lemonade in Bloom

As described above, this “boozy, floral eye-opener” makes the perfect refreshment. The chamomile tea used in this recipe definitely adds a calming factor that is well harmonized with the lemon infused vodka. While this takes a bit of prep, it will easily be the hit of the party.

Pu-erh Old Fashioned

This drink takes some preparation ahead of time, but boy is it worth it. It’s the perfect twist on the classic Old Fashioned and can definitely be tailored to your taste buds. Use your favorite Bourbon that can be enjoyed neat, and you’re on your way to this perfect treat.

Let us know which recipe is your favorite after trying them out in the comments below!

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Tea Guides

Non-Pumpkin Flavors to Enjoy This Fall

October 16, 2015

Now that it’s fall, odds are you’ve encountered the pumpkin craze. But pumpkin spice latte isn’t for everyone. Some people see it as the epitome of the season but there are plenty of other flavors to enjoy this time of year. Here are some of our suggestions for those of you looking to expand your taste beyond pumpkin

Apple

An apple a day keeps the doctor away, but who said it couldn’t be apple tea! This tea makes us especially reminiscent of our childhood of drinking warm apple cider, less thick and heavy. Here’s an Apple Tea that you’ll love and is perfect to cozy up with on a chilly night.

Chai

You can really never go wrong with chai. There are so many variations that you’re bound to find some type you like. Our personal favorite is Bigelow Vanilla Chai. This flavor has the best aroma every time you make it and has the perfect balance of sugar and spice. If you’re going for more of a sweet drink, add some milk, sugar and/or honey and you’re golden!

Gingerbread

Who says it’s too early for holiday flavors? Gingerbread is the perfect essence if you’re looking for something to awaken those taste buds. This gingerbread spice tea, with a blend of cinnamon and ginger, will satisfy any sweet tooth and it’s naturally caffeine free! (Ideal for an after dinner delight)

Vanilla

We love this vanilla black tea! It’s tasty with some milk and sweetener but still lighter than a latte.

Caramel

This new salted caramel tea from Bigelow is to die for and has a combination of sweet and salty! Like vanilla black tea, salted carmel is best with milk and sweetener and paired with a treat.

Maple

Maple tea has the smoothest flavor for those looking to indulge. This particular tea comes in a wooden box, which can be used for decor or preservation!

Cinnamon

Cinnamon tea is just slightly spicier than chai but still has that cozy flavor perfect for fall! This combination of warm and spicy flavors is best enjoyed outdoors by a campfire.

Earl grey

Earl Grey is a classic tea that can really be enjoyed year-round. But what we love the most is the blend of citrus and black tea, especially in the fall. Bigelow makes a great earl grey with amazing bergamot oil from Italy.

Chamomile

This honey vanilla chamomile tea is our all time favorite variation of the herb. The honey vanilla flavor adds sweetness but doesn’t overwhelm the chamomile flavor. At the end of a long fall day, this too is the flavor to cozy up to.

While pumpkin is the obvious popular trend this time of the year, there are plenty more flavors to “fall” in love with! Cozy-up to some of our flavors by fireside or on a brisk walk — we guarantee you’ll enjoy every sip.

Have any additional flavor suggestions of favorite fall teas? Let us know in the comments below!

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