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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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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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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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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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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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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Ditch Your Energy Drink for This Healthier Alternative

April 18, 2022

Energy drinks can generate side effects such as insomnia, nervousness and tachycardia; while the energizing effect from Yerba Mate is 100% natural and its many benefits come from nature itself. Yerba mate is a natural drink that increases your energy levels; but it’s far from being a commercial energy drink. This ancient, natural beverage is made from the leaves of the Yerba Mate tree. Although it also contains caffeine and other substances that act on the central nervous system; this energizing effect comes from nature itself, not from artificial manufacturing. Yerba mate can also be a great alternative to coffee, too!

What is Yerba Mate?

There are only a handful of plants in the world that produce caffeine and yerba mate is one of them! Along with tea, coffee, cacao, kola (or cola) and guarana, the yerba mate herb is used to produce a caffeinated beverage. While prepared as an infusion to create a tea-like beverage, yerba mate contains no actual tea leaves. Yerba mate is an herb native to South America and is used to make the national drink of Argentina, Paraguay, Uraguay and Southern Brazil. In fact, yerba mate is consumed 6 to 1 over coffee in these countries. Yerba mate is often described as earthy, vegetal, herbaceous and bittersweet. Imagine a fresh rainforest floor and you can likely picture the flavor of yerba mate.

What is Yerba Mate Made Of?

The yerba mate tea is brewed at home by adding hot water to the dried leaves from the Ilex Paraguariensis tree, which only grows in South America. It does not contain fat or sugar; and has very little calories, carbs and sodium. Beyond that, Yerba Mate is a wonderful source of vitamins (especially in the B group) minerals (potassium, magnesium, iron) and antioxidants (polyphenols, saponins, caffeoyl). Yerba mate also naturally contains stimulant agents like caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline; this is why it is a great source of natural energy.

Health Concerns with Commercial Energy Drinks

Energy drinks often contain five times the amount of caffeine as soft drinks. This amount of caffeine can cause nervousness, anxiety, headaches, stomachaches, hyperactivity, insomnia, dehydration, accelerated heart rates, and in extreme cases seizures and strokes. Most energy drinks contain an amount of sugar that exceeds the recommended daily allowance and potentially contributes to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and obesity in sedentary individuals.

How to Prepare Yerba Mate

Mate is a versatile drink and there are many ways of preparing it, depending on the type of yerba mate and liquid you use. There is a huge variety of yerba: with or without stems, finely ground or roughly cut, flavored, sweetened, blended with other herbs. Mate can be drunk with water (hot or cold), milk or even juice. However, the most popular and traditional way of preparing mate is plain, with hot water. Here’s how to prepare yerba mate.

Yerba with stems: If you are a beginner or if you prefer a more mild flavor, yerba with stems is the way to go.
Yerba without stems: If you want a strong and more bitter flavor, this must be your choice. It holds the flavor longer and is the most popular type of yerba in Uruguay and South of Brazil.

What you need:

Yerba Mate
Bombilla (metal straw)
Mate gourd (or mug)
Lukewarm water and hot water
Thermometer for accuracy

Instructions:

The traditional way:

Fill gourd with yerba – Fill 2/3 to 3/4 of the gourd with yerba and slant it at 45-degree angle. If you are using yerba without stems, cover the top of the gourd and shake it up and down, to remove the small particles of the yerba before slanting it (45 degrees angle)
Add lukewarm water – Pour lukewarm water as close as the wall of the gourd on the lower half of the slant of yerba. Looking at the mate from above, you will see a half-filled with water, and half dry. Wait until the water is absorbed by the yerba (1 minute).
Repeat but with hot water – Repeat this process but this time with hot water – around 176 Fahrenheit or lower. It is not recommended to use water at a higher temperature than that because it could burn the yerba, affecting its taste and performance.
Put the bombilla –Put the bombilla (covering the top with thumb) on the same lower side of the yerba, on a digging motion, and pressing until you reach the bottom of the gourd.
Press the yerba with the bombilla – Press the yerba with the bombilla, creating two differentiated levels: one higher and dry, and other lower and wet.
Add hot water to the lower side – Add hot water to the lower side, aiming as close as possible to the bombilla to avoid the higher (and dry) part of the yerba slant to get wet.
Your mate is ready – Just drink it using the bombilla and repeat step 6 as many times as you want.

No gourd or bombilla? No problem!

First you will need a tea strainer, tea infuser, or teapot. If you have one at home, you can prepare yerba mate just like you would any other tea by filling it up with looseleaf yerba and steeping it in hot water (1 tablespoon per 8 ounces of water).

Tips:

Never use boiling water. Temperatures of around 140-170ºF work best
For every 8 ounces of fluid, use 1 tablespoon of yerba (add less or more to adjust to your own liking)

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Best Energizing Teas for Summer 2022

April 15, 2022

Looking for a natural way to get a plant-powered boost? Our list of energizing teas will be just the thing you need to keep yourself ready for adventure all summer long. Teas have been hailed as one of the best ways to boost your health naturally, as well as reap the additional benefits of caffeination and a fantastic tasting summer drink…but with so many options available, you might not know where to start. Below, we’re going through the top list of energizing teas for the summer, and how you can best enjoy each one.

What makes tea energizing?

Teas feature naturally energizing properties and may have naturally occurring caffeine in their blends. Additionally, there are other compounds and amino acids that can contribute to a naturally awake and alert feeling, such as L-Theanine. These can occur in tandem with caffeinated teas, or in teas that are not caffeinated, and can enhance your drink experience. Sometimes, simply drinking a cool and refreshing beverage in the hot summer months can give you the boost of resiliency that you need to get through the rest of your day more easily.

Below, we’ve listed some of the top energizing teas of the summer, giving you a great starting point to make your own delicious blends and drinks.

1. Black tea

We had to put this classic drink as the first entry on the list. Black tea is packed with caffeine and a deep, clean, naturally full-bodied taste that can’t be beaten, this tea is energizing and can be enjoyed in just about every way possible. You can sip on black tea hot, iced, or cold-brewed, as well as in an infused blend with other types of tea. Black tea also has the added benefit of L-Theanine, which is a naturally occurring amino acid. It has been proven to increase brain activity, which can give you the feeling of being more alert than you otherwise would be.

2. Ginseng tea

Ginseng tea is actually not a traditional tea that is made of leaves, as you normally would find. This tea is made from the roots of the ginseng plant and was used originally as a medicinal tea in Eastern medicine. Beyond its energizing boost and anti-aging properties, you can also enjoy an increased resilience toward physical and emotional stress, giving you a more balanced experience overall.

Ginseng features an initially sharp, herby taste, which fades to a slight bitterness on the tongue. You’ll likely enjoy this tea best brewed over ice, and sweetened with honey or your favorite add-in.

3. Yerba Mate

Yerba Mate is very popular in South America and is an herbal tea that walks the line between tea and coffee. Its caffeination level is more than that of tea and less than traditionally brewed coffee, giving you a pleasant burst of energy without the buzz and jitters you’ll find in more heavily caffeinated drinks. It’s also rich with antioxidants and nutrients, and has even been shown to give drinkers a pleasant mood boost thanks to compounds such as theobromine and theophylline.

Yerba Mate features a strong, earthen taste that is a deeper and more intense experience than green tea. It’s best enjoyed with a splash of your favorite creamer or milk, and a touch of sweetener of your choice. You can also make your own infusion by loose brewing the tea and adding dried fruit or additions, such as an orange peel for extra flavor.

4. Peppermint

Peppermint tea offers a deliciously crisp experience with every drink and is the perfect way to refresh yourself after a day in the summer heat. This type of tea is not considered to be a stimulant, as it is completely free of caffeine. But, you can still get a significant boost of energy thanks to the naturally occurring compounds and oils in the leaves. You’ll love sipping on this beverage to beat the heat, especially served over ice with a squeeze of lemon and sugar to taste. This delicious treat tastes like a peppermint pattie in a glass and can be enjoyed any time you need a boost.

5. Green tea

Green tea has grown increasingly popular over the past few years, becoming available in a variety of forms. It’s no wonder, as this tea is incredibly naturally energizing and offers a variety of other health benefits, including weight loss benefits, antioxidant boosts, and heart health support. This type of tea offers a uniquely herbaceous taste with grassy-sweet notes and can be enjoyed hot or iced. You may also choose to add your favorite creamer, sweetener, or splash of lemon to neutralize some of the deeper-flavored notes.

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Time to Relax: The Best Teas for Stress and Anxiety

April 13, 2022

The act of taking a moment to prepare a cup of tea and slow down can help to relieve stress, reduce anxiety, and leave you feeling a little more balanced. The type of tea you consume can also help reduce these feelings. Anxiety affects over 40 million people in the US alone. If you have experienced stress, anxiety, trouble sleeping and more, you may be looking for new ways to alleviate symptoms. A cup of tea might help relieve stress and anxiety, and could help you get better sleep. Here are our top teas to help!

Matcha

Most teas made from the camellia sinensis plant contain some amount of L-theanine, a unique amino acid that promotes relaxation and stress relief. In particular, matcha has even higher levels of L-theanine than other teas, the result of the shaded growth period the tea undergoes before harvest. The combination of caffeine and L-theanine is known for producing a calm, meditative state and what matcha enthusiasts often refer to as a body high. Matcha does have caffeine in it so be careful if you are sensitive to caffeine. If you are, this should not be drank before you wind down for bed.

Peppermint

Peppermint tea is a refreshing sip that is delicious both hot and cold. It acts as a natural antispasmodic and sedative to help relax both your mind and body. Plus, peppermint has shown to be great for your digestive system, which can be helpful if your stress or anxiety levels tend to bring on tummy troubles. Because it helps to relax muscles, peppermint tea can also help to soothe tension headaches brought on by stress and anxiety, even just by inhaling the scent of a warm mug of peppermint tea. Plus, if you’re feeling anxious and overwhelmed by all you have to get done, peppermint tea can be a great option to give you a natural energy boost while also leaving you feeling calm and balanced. Our ginger peppermint tea is a great tea to sip on during those cold winter months to warm you up and help with an upset stomach!

Green

Loaded with antioxidants, green tea is often thought to be synonymous with physical health – but it’s great for your mental health, too. Green tea is one of the best teas to drink to help with anxiety. One of the many antioxidants it contains, a flavonoid called epicatechin, helps to protect your brain from oxidative damage, helping to combat the negative effects that stress has on your body and can also be helpful for improving memory. Again, since this is naturally caffeinated, be aware when you are consuming if you are sensitive to caffeine!

Chamomile

We could not make a list of best teas to de-stress without chamomile! With a smooth flavor that makes it easy to sip on, chamomile tea is one of the most popular tea flavors. Because it’s an herbal tea, the caffeine-free blend won’t spike your anxiety levels, and can be sipped on at any time of day. Chamomile tea is made from dried chamomile flowers, and comes in two varieties: German chamomile and Roman chamomile. The tea helps to naturally increase serotonin and melatonin levels in your body, leaving you feeling relaxed without feeling drowsy. Plus, it can help relieve tension by relaxing muscle aches and soothing headaches often associated with stress and anxiety.

Passionflower

Passionflower tea is calming for the nervous system and a great way to reduce anxiety and stress and promote more restful sleep. It has long been used as a natural remedy for anxiety and to increase GABA levels by the Aztecs, Incas and the South American Indians. It is also a great source of phytochemicals and alkaloids, which work to help reduce stress chemicals in the body to help you feel calmer and more relaxed. It’s also great for sleep and helps to relieve inflammation protecting your body from all those negative aspects of stress like skin issues, digestive troubles, and restlessness.

If you want information on how to brew the perfect cup of tea check out our brewing guide!

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Tea Health Benefits

Caffeine Content in Tea and How It’s Determined

March 21, 2022

Each day, billions of people rely on caffeine to wake up, or to get through a work shift or that dreaded 3 pm afternoon slump. In fact, this natural stimulant is one of the most commonly used ingredients in the world. Eighty percent of the world’s population consumes a caffeinated product each day, and this number goes up to 90% for adults in North America. So what is caffeine and how does caffeine in tea effect us?

What is caffeine?

Caffeine is a natural stimulant most commonly found in tea, coffee, and cacao plants. When you consume caffeine, it blocks the effects of adenosine, which is a neurotransmitter that relaxes the brain and makes you feel tired. Adenosine levels build up throughout the day, making you increasingly more tired and causing you to want to go to sleep. Caffeine helps you stay awake by connecting to adenosine receptors in the brain without activating them. This blocks the effects of adenosine, leading to reduced tiredness.

What is the difference in tea and coffee?

Put simply, the caffeine in tea and coffee are digested differently. The caffeine in tea binds with an amino acid called L-theanine. This bond is what makes tea caffeine act in a slower, more controlled way. Instead of a relatively short, intense burst of energy like you would get from coffee, you get a prolonged, slow-release form of energy. You won’t notice a burst of energy, sweaty palms or jitters. But you’ll become much calmer, and focused.

The way coffee works is that it gives you a nice jolt of energy a couple of minutes after ingesting it, and you will almost suddenly feel awake. You’ll notice the coffee is working if you’re starting to get a bit jittery, possibly a bit sweaty, and feel like you have to do everything at once. This is because the caffeine from coffee passes right into the bloodstream, and has a very powerful direct effect. There is no gentleness, just a direct need to get up and do something.

What determines the caffeine content in tea?

There are a handful of factors that determine how much caffeine is in each cup of tea you make. They range from steep time, water temperature, the amount of tea leaf used, harvest time and type of leaf used. Any tea that is a true tea that comes from the Camellia Sinensis plant will have some level of caffeine in it. Additionally, the shorter time you steep your tea, the less caffeine you will have in that cup.

Which teas have the highest and lowest levels of caffeine?

Black tea typically has the most caffeine of all the tea types. One of the reasons for this is a longer infusion time versus green along with higher steeping temperatures, typically boiling. Because black tea is oxidized, it allows more caffeine to be extracted from the leaf versus other types of tea. Matcha is another tea that is high up on the list of most caffeinated tea drinks due to the fact that you consume the entire leaf. Herbal teas (which are teas that are not from the Camellia Sinesis plant) will have little to no caffeine in them.

Black tea: 40 to 90 milligrams of caffeine per cup
Oolong tea: 50 to 75 milligrams of caffeine per cup
Green tea: 12 to 70 milligrams of caffeine per cup
White tea: 6 to 55 milligrams of caffeine per cup
Decaffeinated teas: 2 to 20 milligrams of caffeine per cup
Herbal teas: 0 milligrams of caffeine per cup

Daily caffeine consumption.

Daily recommended caffeine should be about 400 milligrams, which is 4 “cups” of coffee, but cups being 8 ounces, it really means 2 large cups to a lot of people. With black tea coming in around half the caffeine as coffee (45 per cup versus 90 for coffee) you can enjoy a lot more tea throughout the day.

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