I’m a self-professed tea snob.
I’ve had a passion for tea since I discovered a flavour I liked – something I actually wanted to drink as opposed to just something to help stay warm.
That was in 2000. I was 39, underweight and cold all the time. I’m not a coffee drinker – I just don’t like the taste. Or the taste of tea, especially orange pekoe. I don’t even drink hot chocolate.
I’ve never really considered myself picky, but it seems I am. I discovered this about myself more recently. Others, I’m sure, already knew.
I have tried more teas than I can remember. What I drink most of is not really tea, but an herbal infusion, also known as a tisane. You can make tea, or tisane with almost anything. Do you have a patch of chamomile flowers, lavender, roses, or event mint? Try steeping any of these, or all of them together for a tasty hot drink. Because it’s caffeine free, it’s very hydrating! And for those of you who don’t like the taste of water, this is a great alternative. Your body and your skin will thank you!
When I was young, my mother often made my siblings and I, a cup of tisane, using spices she had on hand. Ginger and cloves were often used, along with other herbs, spices and a sometimes a bit of liquor. It was a common remedy for stomach complaints, which I often had.
I was introduced to jasmine green tea a dozen or so years ago and it immediatly replaced my regular morning cups of green tea. Jasmine green tea has a delicate, sweet, floral flavour which I prefer to the nutty, vegetal flavour of green tea alone.
A former co-worker once described the green tea I shared with her as tasting like dirty dishwater. I’ve never had the desire to taste dirty dishwater, and I’m not really sure why she had…
Green tea can be an acquired taste, especially for those orange pekoe drinkers. If you’re among those that pass on it, try changing the flavour with herbs and spices. Green tea blends well with fresh ginger, cinnamon and cardamon.
I’ve mentioned before that green tea is loaded with nutrients and plant compounds that can have positive health effects and is great for skin. It is said to fight DNA damage from UV rays to help prevent skin cancer. That means it's also a potent anti-aging ingredient that combats signs of aging when ingested or applied topically.
Studies show the compounds in green tea can decrease the risk of diabetes, arthritis, heart disease and even cancer. Drinking it can boost metabolism and increase fat burning.
With the changing of the seasons comes the cold and the dampness. I can’t think of a better way to warm up and relax than with a hot cup of tea and a nice long soak in the tub. Heads up though, if you have dry skin, don’t make the water too hot – it’s very drying and can cause irritation.
So why not treat yourself to a perfect indulgence at the end of the day with our new Green Tea & Jasmine Bath Soak?
I’ve formulated an ultimate mix to chase away stress, pamper your skin and relieve sore muscles. Aromas of sweet orange, jasmine and palmarosa will soothe the mind. Soak for 20 to 30 minutes to stimulate circulation, relieve joint stiffness and soothe your tired body.
Use coupon code greenteawonder to get 15% off. Offer expires September 30th.
Click the link to shop our Green Tea & Jasmine Bath Soak.
