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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Types of Tea

Best (Non Chamomile) Sleepy Time Teas

November 8, 2022

A better night’s sleep and high-quality sleep have been linked to drinking tea before bed. Given how many Americans experience sleep problems like insomnia, this is fairly important. Additionally, when you spend too much time on screens and don’t get enough exercise, sleep problems might get worse. A warm cup of tea, particularly at the end of a hard day, is said to help soothe the mind, according to some experts. In actuality, the deliberate process of making a cup of tea can also promote relaxation. There is something comforting about having a nice cup of tea before you wind down from the day and get ready for the next. It is impossible to put into words the warmth, affection, and comfort you have after brewing some tea before bed. With the modern world’s distractions, social media, and a hectic lifestyle, we are aware of how difficult it may be to fall asleep, but happily, we have a savior—or rather, a number of saviors. Let’s look at some teas that help you fall asleep; no, chamomile tea is not one of them.

Lavender Earl Grey

The lavender flower’s buds are steeped in water to make lavender tea, which results in a brilliant beverage with a distinctive flavor and aroma. In addition to being frequently consumed as a calming bedtime tea, a recent study suggests that lavender may also help with relaxation and improve the quality of sleep. For instance, a tiny study discovered that women who drank 1 cup (237 mL) of lavender tea every day for 2 weeks after giving birth felt less worn out than a control group. Aromatherapy with lavender is frequently thought to have hypnotic effects, calm moods, and increase mothers’ pleasant feelings for their infants. Lavender earl grey tea effectively reduced the signs of anxiety and despair in older persons, which could lead to insomnia. Another study on 79 college students who complained of having trouble sleeping found that maintaining good sleep hygiene and inhaling lavender enhanced sleep quality.

Evening Comfort

Everybody must benefit from some downtime and relaxation at night! Why not start the kettle and unwind with this special concoction of hand-picked peppermint leaves, chunks of ginger, and lemon peel? After a long day, this herbal nighttime tea can help you relax and regain focus. This herbal blend of mint is naturally caffeine-free and features prominent ginger and lemon aromas. Ideal for cuddling up with on a chilly night. Because it does not contain caffeine, it puts you in a state of relaxation in the first sip and allows you to enjoy some me-time while helping you prepare for an intense day ahead the next morning. Add some evening comfort to your evening, or even your day.

Purifying Tulsi

Ayurvedic Purifying Tulsi Herbal Tea is made of Holy Basil, spearmint, rosehips, lemon myrtle, and linden blossoms. It helps in cleansing your mind and spirit as well as improving the body’s immune system, due to its rich antioxidant and adaptogenic properties. Apart from the fact that it promotes sleep and gives you an utter sense of relaxation, there are numerous health benefits it comes with. The antioxidants in tulsi tea shield cells from the harm done by free radicals, which promote the development and spread of numerous diseases. The adaptogens in this herbal brew, also known as holy basil tea, act as potent anti-stress medications to shield your body from a variety of health issues.

For many people, having tea at night has become a ritual. It can be quite calming and thoughtful to boil the water, steep the tea, and wait for it to be ready to consume. It makes preparing the tea as calming as drinking it because it helps with relaxing both your mind and body after a hectic day. Ultimately, adding a little bit of tea to your bedtime routine could be helpful to both your sleep and overall health. Herbal teas, like the ones mentioned in this post, are less likely to wake you up in the middle of the night than caffeine-containing teas, and they also won’t keep you up as late. All of these teas have numerous health benefits and if you are someone like us, who needs better sleep, we highly recommend trying some of our other herbal loose leaf tea.

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Tea Guides

Top 7 Teapots You Can Enjoy All Year Long (Buying Guide)

December 15, 2021

The holidays are upon us ⸺ and that means ‘tis the season to cozy up with your favorite cup of tea and enjoy the simpler moments of the season. Teapots can make the perfect gift for a tea lover in your life (or you…but we won’t tell anyone!) With so many options available, it can feel impossible to decide which is the best pot for your use. We’ve made it simple and evaluated the top options on the market, creating a top 10 list that you can refer to for all of your gifting needs this holiday season…and beyond. In this article, we cover 10 of the top teapot options that you can purchase for a tea aficionado in your life.

What To Consider When Purchasing Your Teapot

When you purchase your teapot, there are a variety of factors that you may consider prior to deciding. For example, you’ll want a teapot that appeals to your unique design aesthetic, and you’ll want a reliable vessel that can withstand the test of time even against repeated use and heat. Other factors that may contribute to your decision include:

Location of manufacturer
Accessories affiliated
Material used
Capacity

No matter what your preferences are for your next teapot purchase, you can rest assured that there is a design and type for you to enjoy. The market offers thousands of different pots that you can enjoy and incorporate into your daily tea routine.

Top Tier Cast Iron Japanese Style Teapot (Diamond Design)

This pot offers a modern-day upgrade to your kitchen’s aesthetic and has a boiling capacity of 24 fluid ounces, which is approximately 3-4 cups of perfectly brewed tea. The cast-iron design offers the additional benefits of heat retention and the addition of iron into the water, which can act as a nutritional benefit and supplement to your body’s ability to absorb and utilize the element effectively.

The teapot features an included infuser that is ideal for all tea types: loose-leaf, bagged teas, or blooming teas. It is easy to clean and can be cleaned with soap and water without damaging the pot. The geometric and minimalist design can easily add an air of sophistication to your kitchen.

Primula Half-Moon Teapot and Infuser Set

This teapot and infuser set features a unique design that is sure to catch the eye of your fellow tea lover! The half-moon design comes in a complementary color triad, including blush, teal, and slate gray. The other half of the pot is crafted from heat-resistant borosilicate glass that lends itself to ultimate durability and longevity. The easy-to-grip handle makes every pour a breeze and is also treated to be heat-resistant, stopping injuries in their tracks. The design and esthetic make this the perfect gift for any tea fan in your life.

Grosche Aberdeen Perfect Tea Maker Tea Pot + Coaster Set

This set offers a more unconventional design, inviting the user to a bottom dispensing tea pour experience. This tea maker has an easy-to-clean design and is the perfect thing to start your tea drinking journey with, offering you the versatile capability of bagged brewing or loose-leaf brewing. It is considered to be shatterproof and features a BPA-free plastic construction that is easy to use and simpler to maintain than other brewers.

T2 Tea Stainless Steel Flask Brewer

This flask brewing system allows users to enjoy a unique tea brewing experience that gives the drinkers the ability to brew on the go ⸺ something rarely found in loose-leaf brewing systems. The flask is designed to be completely leakproof, and can effectively brew both cold tea and hot teas. This brewer is crafted from insulated stainless steel, preserving the taste and quality of your tea without compromising any of its temperatures no matter what environment you find yourself in. If you know a tea drinker who loves going on adventures, or camping, this is the ideal gift for them.

Ceramic Tea Infuser Mug With Lid (16 Ounces)

This tea infuser mug offers your loved one the gift of ease and versatility. The capacity allows for the perfect cup of tea that you can brew on the go, and enjoy for longer periods of time thanks to the insulated design. The cup is dishwasher safe and is safe for a variety of other use cases. To use for coffee, tea, water, cereal, or more, simply remove the infuser component of the cup. The handle is ergonomically designed and all elements used in the construction of the cup are lead and cadmium-free. This is perfect for a tea lover in your life who is always on the go!

Home Craft Stainless Steel Iced Tea System

Iced tea lovers… this one is for you! The Home Craft stainless steel iced tea system has a three-quart capacity and a proprietary filter design that is meant to extract the most vibrant, deep flavors possible from your blends. You can utilize the strength selector dial to enjoy the perfect cup of tea, every time. The energy-efficient model is set to shut off upon brew completion, so you never have to worry or wonder about prolonged use dangers or costs.

Primula Press & Go Portable Tea Strainer

This tea strainer is constructed from high-quality Tritan plastic and features a double-walled design that enhances the ability of the brewer to hold temperatures for a longer period of time. You can also enjoy the spillproof design and sleek, easy-to-use handle and construction that can elevate your tea time with every sip.

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Tea Gifts

Top 5 Holiday Tea Accessories

December 2, 2021

Tea is a timeless cultural activity that has been popularized for its ceremonial and health benefits, as well as its universal nature. From the dawn of time, tea has been instrumental in holistic healing in ancient tribes, ceremonies in the Eastern world, and a part of countless traditions around the world. In today’s world, tea is a part of millions’ morning routines and can be partnered with accessories to enhance your tea drinking experience. In this article, we cover the top 5 tea accessories that will take your tea routine to the next level.

A Reliable Commuter Cup for the Tea Drinker On-The-Go

A commuter cup can be the perfect practical gift for yourself or another tea lover in your life! Save the time and cost of going to the coffee shop, and take your favorite blend with you on the go! This cup is perfect for travel of all types, from the daily work commute to hiking and adventuring with the family.

This product is designed to fit seamlessly into your morning routine, coming in either 9 or 17-ounce capacities. Whether you love cold or hot brews, this cup can do it all. You can keep your hot beverages hot for 5 hours, and your cold beverages icy for 18 – nearly an entire day. The classy ceramic-coated interior and the 360-degree spillproof lid make this the perfect holiday gift option.

A Cocktail Infusion Recipe Book that Can’t Be Beat

This accessory can quite literally change your tea routine. Tea Cocktails: A Mixologist’s Guide to Legendary Tea-Infused Cocktails by Abigail Gehring gives your tea lover the perfect push to mix it up a bit, and has countless delicious recipes to dive into for a change of pace. Every recipe is infused with different ingredients and blends, bringing the flavors of the world together right in your kitchen.

The cookbook is 176 pages, each one filled with vibrant and unique recipes sure to stun at your next event. This accessory is perfect for one who loves to entertain and is always looking for the next taste-based adventure.

Hint: Our China Keemun tea is a full-bodied delicious brew that is sure to be a delicious base for just about any tea recipe you find!

A Clear Teapot That Will Class Up Your Kitchen

Part of the beauty of tea is the intentionality and unique process of brewing. Tea was meant to be enjoyed both by taste and by observation. This pot is handcrafted to deliver an artisanal and minimalistic modern touch to your kitchen, all while allowing you to view the beautiful steeping process. The pot is built for durability, crafted from lead-free borosilicate glass.

This accessory is the perfect option for the tea lover who seeks simplicity and ease. The pot is microwave safe and easy to clean. The capacity is perfect for your routine, holding up to 25 fluid ounces with each use. Enjoy the little things and begin your journey of intentionality with this beautiful pot!

A Sleek Infuser-Styled Bottle That’s Perfect For Daily Use

If you are looking for your perfect accessory on the go, but like slower brewed blends, sometimes the travel cups just don’t cut it. You need something that allows you to brew alongside your busy schedule, delivering that perfect potency with every sip. If this sounds like you, we recommend the Teabloom Infusion Tumbler.

The sleek design and company commitment to sustainability and versatility make this the perfect tool to use in your daily routine – enjoying your tea in an ethically-minded way with a low-impact bottle that is designed for use no matter where you are! Whether you’re hiking the trail, camping or traveling, or simply going to work, this bottle is meant to travel and infuse with you.

You can enjoy a 16 fluid ounce capacity, and an easy-to-grip design that comes in an array of stunning colors, including rose gold, navy blue, ruby red, black, and pearl white.

We recommend a delicious tea to be used with such a beautiful bottle. Look no further than our distinctly light and flavorful Blackberry Jasmine green tea!

Screw -Top Tea Storage System in Packs of 1, 3, or 5 Jars

Storing your tea properly preserves the life and function of your tea leaves. Loose-leaf teas often lack preservatives or stabilizers found in other tea, which can lead to dulled tastes and impaired utility with prolonged exposure to air or poor storage methods. These jars are created to help you to store your tea in confidence and to preserve that bold flavor in every sip.

These handy jars come in packages of 1, 3, or 5 jars and feature easy-to-use screw top lids. They are made of classic and sleek ultraviolet glass that prevents light rays from damaging the fragile flavors and body of the leaves. The material is completely BPA-free, so you can sip in confidence knowing that your health is preserved.

This is the perfect gift for a lover of loose-leaf blends, or for someone who is just falling in love with the tea-making routine. These look classy on any countertop and are the perfect size for easy storage.

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Tea Gifts

Tea Inspired Gifts to Give This Fall

September 20, 2021

Fall is approaching, and there is nothing better than a warm cup of tea on a cold fall afternoon. Here are 9 great tea inspired gifts to give this fall to your tea loving friends and family.

1- Matcha Roll Bubble Bar by Lush

Baths are a great way to relax on a cool fall day. The warm water allows your blood to flow and your breathe to slow which results in a relaxing experience. When you add in the Matcha Roll Bubble Bar to your soak, your skin will be left feeling softened and refreshed. Lush is a natural cosmetics brand that has taken the drivers seat in all things bath and body related. Their wide selection of bath accessories are popular for gifts and perfect for Fall, because who doesn’t love a little self-care on a cool Fall day. Treat yourself today with this bubble bath accessory.

2- 16oz Stoneware Happy Fall Mug by Threshold at Target

Kickoff Fall with a cute mug. This fall mug is perfect for anyone with a Fall birthday, or for that special person you are thinking of gifting. Pour a nice cup of our loose leaf tea into this fall mug and grab your favorite book or turn on your favorite TV show to binge. Mugs are also great teacher gifts and can be paired with a pack of loose leaf tea or a gift card to a local coffee shop for a generous gesture. Sip in style with this cute, inexpensive fall mug.

3- Commuter Cup (insulated travel mug by Corkcicle)

This excellent travel mug by Corkcicle is perfect for someone who is always on the go. It comes in two different sizes, 9oz and 17oz, and is designed with a 360 degree spill proof lid so you can throw it into any bag without having any worry of spillage. Keep your water cold for 18 hours, or your tea hot for 5 hours with the insulation designed into this great commuter cup. Whether you are commuting for work, or just always on the go, this mug will make your life easier with its convenient design.

4- Interchangeable Tea Quote Throw Pillow Covers

Elevate your fall home decor by adding a tea inspired throw pillow cover to your home. It’s easy to stick with your same pillows, so why not switch it up with an interchangeable throw pillow cover. Whether you are looking to accessorize your couch, bed, or chair, this pillow is great for any tea lover. Some of the cute designs we found include a Tea, Books, & Rain or this Books & Tea Make Me Happy pillow cover.

5- Pumpkin Perfect Loose Leaf Tea Infuser by David’s Tea

Tea infusers are a great way to gain the maximum amount of flavor out of your favorite loose leaf teas. This pumpkin patterned tea infuser is a great gift for fall. Tea infusers allow you to control the amount of time in which your tea steeps and prevent the over extraction of tannins which can result in a bitter taste in your cup of tea. Another great tea infuser is this Rose Gold Tea Ball Infuser by Crate and Barrel. Rose Gold is a great fall color that can be thrown with any kitchenware for a shiny touch.

6- Pumpkin Shaped Stoneware Mug by Pottery Barn

Who doesn’t love pumpkin themed items in the fall? This pumpkin shaped mug from Pottery Barn is perfect for your pumpkin obsessed friends. Pair it with a bag of our loose leaf Chai tea to complete the perfect fall gift. Gift your friends with the opportunity to whip up a Chai Tea Latte at home in their new mug.

7- Le Creuset Kettle and Mug Set

Le Creuset is a trusty favorite in the world of kitchenware. The enamel this steel kettle is crafted from sturdy carbon steel and finished with a vibrant porcelain enamel finish. The mug is made from durable stoneware and is generously sized for enjoying a decently sized cup of tea. Treat your loved one to this kettle and mug set by Le Creuset, you will not regret it.

8- Pumpkin Chai Candle by Nest Fragrances

Do you love flavors of pumpkin and chai in the fall? Then this candle is perfect for you. There is nothing better than the warm fragrances of fall. This candle creates a cozy fall ambiance with a scent that is created through a mixture of wild pumpkin, spicy masala chai, cardamom, ginger, and cinnamon.

9- Tea By Sugarfina 3 Piece Candy Bento Box

This delicious candy bento box is a great gift for your tea loving, sweet tooth friends. It features matcha, rose tea, and peach tea flavored chewy bears. This delicious treat is an excellent gift to sweeten someone’s day.

Now that we’ve shown you 9 excellent tea-inspired gifts, which are you going to give this fall?

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Tea Gifts

Gifts for Your Tea-Loving Valentine

February 12, 2018

This Valentine’s Day, give your tea-obsessed better half a tea-inspired gift and you’re sure to get rave reviews. Consider these delightful presents this February 14^th:

1) A Couples’ Mug

You can’t go wrong with two mugs that go together just as well as you and your sweetheart. Boldloft has a series of mugs that, when put together, form a sweet picture. Each set retails for $26.99, and each mug holds 12 ounces. They’re made from stoneware ceramic and are both microwave- and dishwasher-safe. Pick your favorite design:

2) Valentine’s Day Sugar Cubes

Make sure bae has a sweet start to the day with these specially-shaped sugar cubes from Chiara Sweet Art. Available in pink or blue, they’re the perfect way to start his or her day off with a smile. Each cube is equal to about a teaspoon of sugar, and they come in an adorable box of 100.

3) Heart-Shaped Tea Bags

Wake your valentine up with a piping hot cuppa that’s full of love—literally. These heart-shaped tea bags will make you paramour’s breakfast a little sweeter, or her afternoon tea extra special. Tea flavors include earl grey, Ceylon black tea, and green. They’re also a great value: a 6-pack sets you back only $10.

4) Love-ly Coasters

Coasters may be practical, but they can also be beautiful and special. These coasters will dazzle any girlfriend, boyfriend, husband, or wife:

These natural wood coasters from All About Impressions are the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for the nature-appreciating love in your life. No two coasters are identical, and come in a set of 4. They’re personalized with the initials of you and your loved one, and cost only $34.

These puzzle-piece coasters from Pretty Personalized UK are perfect if you and your valentine fit together like a glove. Four coasters come together to form one personalized block of text.

These anatomically-inspired heart coasters from Think Geek are perfect if you and your valentine appreciate the human body on a scientific level. The coasters are printed on glass, measure 4×4 inches, and come in a set of six for just $16.99. Bonus: each coaster has rubber feet to further protect your household surfaces!

5) Green Tea Bath Bombs

These bath bombs from Spa Girl Soaps are a great way to treat your love to a relaxing Valentine’s Day. They come in a set of 14 in flavors such as: green tea, green tea lemon, green tea lemon honey, and green tea lemon ginseng. The tea and oils in the bombs will help your skin look beautiful and healthy, plus they smell delicious! Add one or several to the bath for a luxurious dose of you-time.

6) Sweet Indulgence Tea Sampler

This sampler from DAVIDsTEA presents you and your valentine with 12 individual tins of flavorful loose leaf teas. Get ready to taste: Alpine Punch, Banana Nut Bread, Cardamom French Toast, Chocolate Macaroon, Coconut Cream Pie, English Toffee, Forever Nuts, Hot Chocolate, Midsummer Night’s Dream, Movie Night, Strawberry Rhubarb Parfaitm, and Toasted Walnut. This tea set will add interest to tea time for months, and will make dessert a healthy, guilt-free time that you and your valentine can look forward to. All this for just $26!

Happy Valentine’s Day!

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Tea Gifts

Valentine’s Day Tea Gifts

February 7, 2017

Looking to create the perfect day for your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day? We’ve got you covered. From romantic teas perfect for sipping together to tea-based massage oils, we’ve sourced an array of gifts and goods that will make this Valentine’s Day tea-ming with romance.

1) A Heart Full of Tea

If your valentine isn’t into the clichéd bouquet of roses, opt for a bouquet of teas. This Teas From The Heart collection from Tea Forte delivers twelve tea infusers in a heart-shaped container. Flavors include: Cherry Amour, Strawberry Apply, Vanilla Peach, Jasmine Chamomile, and Passion Fruit Papaya. A sweet gift for your sweetheart.

2) A Tea Full of Hearts

If you’re looking for a tea that literally shows your love, try this “love affair tea” from Capital Teas, which blends sugar hearts with rose petals, strawberry, raspberry, and chocolate. The mixture creates a sweet flavor profile and cute visual perfect for sipping and staring into each other’s eyes.

3) A Mug For Your Lovebug

If you and your main squeeze go together like biscuits and tea, this handmade ceramic mug makes a great gift. Hailing from a British artist, biscuits mean cookies in this case. Bake a batch of your lover’s favorite variety to go with the mug, and you’ve got a Valentine’s gift that’s both tasty and easy.

4) Tea-Based Massage Oil

Once you’re alone in the bedroom, break out this green tea massage oil and treat your better half to a Valentine’s Day massage. Made from green tea, olive oil, and avocado, this Shea Moisture massage oil—which can double as a relaxing bath infuser—is not only a great tool to spice up a massage, but also hydrates dry skin and can help prevent signs of early aging.

5) Tea-Infused Chocolate Covered Strawberries

If you’re comfortable in the kitchen, try whipping up these delicious tea-infused chocolate covered strawberries. Dip strawberries in a delectable mixture made from your love’s favorite tea, oil, and almond bark, then garnish with candies as desired. Your significant other will appreciate the elbow grease and your departure from the overdone chocolate-dipped strawberries.

6) Beard Oil for Your Bearded Bae

If your honey is rocking a beard this Valentine’s Day, gift him this Tea Infused Beard Oil from Bearded Oregon. Handmade in Portland, Oregon, this beard oil is a pleasant-smelling mixture made from tealeaves, rose, vanilla, cinnamon, almond oil, jojoba oil, and avocado oil. Beard oil is a great way for your man to moisturize his facial hair and the skin underneath, achieve a polished, flake-free look, and smell great. This tea-based beard oil will make your hunk feel great, and you’ll relish every whiff of his lovably scruffy face.

7) Tea-Infused Candles

Looking to set the mood? Achieve some very special lighting by making these tea-infused rose peony candles. The tea provides more of a visual accent in this DIY project than smell, so pick the tea whose leaves most achieve the mis en scene you’re going for. Your loved one will definitely appreciate the effort you went to, with the added bonus that you’ll both look great by candlelight.

8) Tea-Infused Chocolate Bars

Plain chocolate bars just don’t cut it anymore. Go the extra mile and track down a tea-infused chocolate bar for the sweetheart with a sweet tooth in your life. Try one of many varieties from The Tea Room which infuse chocolate bars with teas such green earl grey, lapsang souchong, black masala chai, mint, chamomile, jasmine, and raspberry rooibos.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

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Tea Gifts

Tea Gifts For Your Holiday Hostess Under $10!

December 22, 2016

It’s the holiday season, and that means it’s time to party! It’s poor form to show up empty-handed, so we’ve selected an array of tea gifts that any host or hostess will appreciate this winter. If you’re a social butterfly, chances are you’ll be attending multiple parties, and hostess gifts can add up. Never fear: we’re here with six great gifts $10 and under so that you can attend all the festivities your heart desires without your bank account putting up a fight. Ready, set, gifts:

1) Red Pointsettia Macaron Tea Tin ($5.37)

This cute tin from Teavana holds 2 ounces of tea and adds a splash of pink and white to the classic red poinsettia plant. Inspired by the classiest of cookies–the macaroon–this tin will add color and cuteness to your host’s tea station. Plus, it’s only $5.37! But that can be our secret. (Also comes in solid red, blue, magenta, and lime green.)

2) Tea Lids ($7.95)

You’re running out the door, none of your travel mugs are clean, but you desperately need your cup of tea while you drive to work. Problem solved: these tea lids from Republic of Tea are here to keep you from spilling hot tea all over yourself in the car. Vibrant red and only $7.95 for a set of two, these tea toppers are a simple, practical, and affordable gift for the tea-drinking hostess in your life.

3) Morphing Mugs ($9.95)

These unique mugs from Stash Tea are a little magical: when you pour hot water inside, the black flowers and cherry blossom tree “bloom” with color. Thermographic ink’s to credit for this colorful surprise, but it also means these mugs aren’t safe in the dishwasher or microwave. So give one to your host with a side note of caution. At only $9.95, magic’s never been more affordable! (If you’re willing to shell out another two bucks: for $12, buy this Banned Books Morphing Mug, which unblackens the titles of banned books throughout history, from The Great Gatsby to I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings. Censorship has never been cuter.)

4) Wooden Mandala Coasters ($9.00)

These laser-cut alder wood mandala coasters from Night Owl Engraving are a beautiful gift for any party thrower this holiday season. In the Hindu and Buddhist traditions, the mandala is an image that represents the universe. Your hostess will be able to fit the whole universe in her hand and protect her tabletops with this stunning, inexpensive gift. A double win!

5) Harney & Sons Tea Sampler ($9.95)

This little black box contains 20 tea bags full of Harney & Sons’ best sellers, including Organic Green Tea with Citrus & Ginko, Pomegranate Oolong, and Japanese Sencha. For only $9.95, you can give your host a little box overflowing with flavor. If they’ve read Miss Manners, your hosts will know to put the box out at the affair, so you’ll get to sample your own gift, too.

6) Cup of Tea Tree Ornament ($8.95)

If you’re attending a Christmas party, bring along this cute teacup ornament to add a little tea to your host’s tree. This is the perfect gift if you want to stay on your host’s mind through the years, as he’ll remember you every time he takes out the ornaments to trim the tree come December. Just $8.95, this ornament is affordable and adorable, our favorite combination!

Happy Holidays!

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Tea Gifts

Holiday Gift Guide 2016

December 6, 2016

The holidays are coming up, and with it lots of gift shopping. Whether you’re buying for a tea-loving co-worker, teacher, paramour, or friend, we’re here to help. We’ve compiled 10 gift ideas sure to put a smile on any tea aficianado.

1) Matcha Starter Kit

If you were inspired by our post about how to host a Japanese tea ceremony, scoop up this Matcha Starter Kit from Teavana. It includes a 40 gram-canister of Organic Imperial Matcha, an 80-bamboo bristled matcha whisk, and a matcha bowl inspired by traditional Japanese pottery.

2) Tea of the Month Club

Give the gift of tea every month with this Tea of the Month Club from Teabox. Your recipient can take a quiz that gives Teabox data to select the best teas for him or her. Depending on how much tea she dinks, Teabox will send the tea lover in your life enough tea to make 12, 30, or 120 cups of tea per month. Every time your recipient brews a cup, he’ll have you to thank. It’s the gift that keeps on brewing.

3) Oceanstar Bamboo Tea Box

This Bamboo tea box provides a sleek organizational system for any tea lover’s assortment of bags. An acrylic glass lid covers the box without obscuring a view of the eight storage pockets. This box dresses up any basic black tea bag, and matches the sophistication of the most intricate blends.

4) Shark Tea Infuser

This cute tea infuser from HeroNeo brings a little danger to your cup of tea. Well, not really. This shark’s made of silicon rubber and it’s too cute to bring anything but charm to your afternoon cup of tea. This sea creature can survive in water from -22 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Pretty tough for something so adorable!

5) Old Havana Teapot

This teapot from Anthropologie delivers a feminine, turquoise presence to your kitchen, and can double as a gorgeous vase when not in use boiling water. Plus, it’s dishwasher safe. Practical and stunning? Your Secret Santa will be praising your gift giving skills through the New Year.

6) Tea Cocktails: A Mixologist’s Guide to Legendary Tea-Infused Cocktails

For the tea and sprit-loving gentleman or lady in your life, this cookbook delivers innovative tea-based cocktail recipes. Your giftee will learn how to make concoctions such as: the Rooibos Berry Daiquiri, the Chai White Russian, the Riesling Jasmine Hot Toddy, and the Dark and Stormy Ginger Tea. Tea just got a little more grown-up, and this gift is perfect for those 21 and over.

7) Heart Shaped Mugs

Pick up these heart shaped mugs and personalize them with you and your significant other’s names. If your loved one is in a committed relationship with tea, this mug shows him that you are also his perfect match.

8) The True History of Tea

As one of the most consumed beverages in the world, tea has a long, rich history as an important trading commodity that linked empires in manners both enriching and violent. The True History of Tea explores that complex history. Author Erling Hoh of Archaeology and Natural History teams with University of Pennsylvania and The Tarim Mummies Professor Victor H. Mair for a book that explores tea in the ancient worlds of China and Japan to the modern European empires. For the tea-drinking history buff in your life, a book on the history of one of the world’s most important commodities is a slam dunk.

9) Personalized Tea Blend

Blends For Friends crafts a custom-blend of tea that perfectly encapsulates your gift recipient’s personality. You’ll get 125 grams of tea in a decorative tin with a “personalized and quirky blend recipe descriptor subtly referencing the personality traits of the recipient.” It also comes with a gift box so you won’t have to worry about gift wrapping. If you want to give a thoughtful, personal gift, you can’t get much better than this.

10) Sugar Doilies

If your giftee is on the fancier side, a cube of sugar just won’t do. So give him or her these sugar sculptures that add beauty to a cup of tea and dissolve in about 2 minutes.

Happy Holidays!

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Tea Gifts

7 Fabulous Gifts Under $20 for the Tea Lover in Your Life

December 1, 2015

Shopping for holiday gifts can be stressful, especially if you’re on a budget. But not to fear, by remaining thoughtful and mindful of the recipient, you’ll be sure to find a gift they enjoy!

Fun and festive tea Infusers

These are a nice and easy gift. Tea infusers are a budget conscious solution for gifting the tea lover in your life. They’re cute and fun, and come in so many varieties you’re bound to find one perfect for!

A Cute Mug

You can never really go wrong with a cute mug. Or one that’s got a clever saying.

Wine Infused Tea

You heard right, WINE INFUSED TEA! Vintage Tea Works gives you a unique and delicious blend of two boldly rich beverages that will surely please any wine and/or tea lover’s palette.

A “Tea” Table Book

This book by Hattie Ellis talks about the different varieties of tea—from Darjeelings to Assams. Ellis includes best practices for brewing and walks you through different tastes, and even includes recipes! Tea is sure to be a hit with your tea lover this season.

Literary Candles

This one is perfect for the tea lover that’s also a book lover. Gift them ultimate relaxation: a book inspired candle they can curl up with. Cup of tea not included!

Tea Bag Squeezer

A practical but under utilized gift, the tea bag squeezer saves those fingers from ever being scaled by a hot tea bag again.

A Cool Teapot

This cast-iron pot is thoughtful gift and can add a little rustic feel to your next tea party.

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