Taiwan Oolong Tea

High Mountain Oolong Tea Oolong tea is referred to as semi oxidized tea resembling a ball-like form produced from Qingxin Oolong varietals. Tea plantations located in The Central Mountains of Taiwan are major areas of production for the world famous oolong tea. Oolong tea gives off a strong unique varietal fragrance and tastes rich, smooth and is enjoyable. In addition, it carries a strong pleasant aftertaste.

The majority of first grade Taiwan high mountain teas are oolong teas. This is especially true for teas made from tea plantations located 1600 meter above sea level. Some of the most well known high mountain oolong teas harvested from the higher altitudes include Dayuling oolong tea, Li Shan oolong tea, Shanlinxi oolong tea, Alishan oolong tea and Wuling oolong tea.

Dayuling oolong tea mostly comes from tea plantations located between 2300 and 2600 meter above sea level. The plantations are located at one of the highest tea regions in Taiwan or arguably in the world. The unique tea growing environment allows Dayuling oolong tea to be rich and smooth in taste and is predominantly one of the finest oolong teas in Taiwan. Li Shan oolong tea is harvested from plantations between 2000 and 2400 meter above sea level. This tea growing environment also makes Li Shan oolong tea a first grade tea. Alishan oolong tea comes from plantations 1200 meter above sea level. It is one of the most famous oolong teas in Taiwan. Alishan oolong is extremely popular especially among foreign tourists from mainland China.

Milk Oolong Tea (Jinxuan Oolong)
Milk Oolong tea refers to semi oxidized tea with ball-like form made from Jinxuan varietals. It comes with a unique delightful creamy fragrance and light refreshing milky taste. In addition, it leaves a satisfying milky aftertaste. The tea is highly recommended to be a great initiation to quality Taiwan Oolong teas.

Milk Oolong tea is produced from both high and low altitude tea plantations. High altitude milk oolong has a richer and smoother taste, but the low altitude allows the tea to be fresher and more economic. Milk oolong is particularly popular among female local tea drinkers in Taiwan and it is definitely a great choice for everyday tea drinking.

Four Season Oolong Tea (Sijichuan Oolong)
Four Season oolong tea refers to semi oxidized tea resembling a ball-like form made from Sijichun varietal. It carries a smooth, floral and mild taste without any bitterness or dryness. The tea is highly recommended to be a great initiation to Taiwan tea.

Most of Four Season oolong tea comes from low altitude,1000 meter below sea level, tea plantations. The tea is fresh, tasty, economic and available in large quantities. All of these characterisitcs make the tea a great candidate to be an everyday tea to enjoy with friends and family. In fact, it is one of the best selling teas in Taiwan. The Mingjian tea region is where the majority of the production of the fresh Four Season oolong tea occurs.

Jade Oolong Tea (Cuiyu Oolong)
Jade oolong tea refers to semi oxidized tea resembling a ball-like form made from Cuiyu varietals. It gives off a jasmine fragrance and tastes refreshing, mild and smooth. In addition, the tea leaves a sweet pleasant aftertaste. Jade oolong tea is highly recommended to be a great initiation to Taiwan teas.

Similar to Four Season oolong tea, the majority of Jade oolong tea is produced from low altitudes tea plantations, 1000 meter below sea level. The tea is fresh, tasty, economic and available in large quantities. It is highly recommended to be a perfect everyday tea. Jade oolong tea is one of top and best sellers among Taiwan teas.

Pouchong Tea
Pouchong tea is slightly oxidized and mostly produced in the Pinglin Township near Taipei, Taiwan. It is processed and rolled into stick-like form in contrast to oolong tea which appears in ball-like form. Pouchong is a popular and excellent choice of quality Taiwan Oolong teas. It gives off a floral fragrance and tastes rich, mild, smooth and pleasant. In addition, the tea carries a great reputation for its strong pleasant aftertaste.

Pouchong tea is known as wenshan pouching tea among locals in Taiwan. Wenshan tea region has been one of the most important tea regions for over a hundred years and it is still a popular and major tea producing region.

Wenshan pouching tea is prepared by strictly following old fashioned tea processing methods. Local tea farmers make sure every step of the tea processing is fully completed before moving on to the next step to ensure that the tea produced can be at its highest quality.

Wenshan pouching tea is old-fashioned in almost every aspect even when it comes to pricing. On the rest of tea regions in Taiwan, tea is sold mostly according to place of origin, season, and reputation of the tea. There is no doubt that these three can almost guarantee that the tea has to reach a certain level of quality. However, taste affects just slightly on its price. If the tea harvest came from a bad season of weather, customers may still have to pay the same price to enjoy the tea; simply because the tea is produced from a region with an excellent reputation. In contrast, wenshan pouching tea is mainly sold according to its taste and quality. You may see wenshan pouching teas coming from the identical place of origin and seasons are sold at different prices. Sometimes ten times the difference!

Many tea varietals are produced in the Wenshan region, such as Qingxin Oolong, Jinxuan, Sijichun and Tikunayin. After years of tea production experiences, local tea farmers realized that Qingxin Oolong is by far the best to make first grade pouching tea due to its unique fragrances. Qingxin Oolong has now become the most popular candidate in producing pouching tea.

When the attention is placed on oolong tea, do not overlook the pouching tea as well. The fragrances are preserved which allows the local tea farmers to enjoy the old fashioned methods of producing this type of tea. Give it a try for yourself and you will understand why pouching tea is popular among the locals in Taiwan!

Oolong Tea’s Benefits

Oolong tea has a long and rich history that includes being one of the plants that were grown and prized by ancient Chinese emperors and today is prized for its many known health benefits around the world. The history of the plant that is botanically known as Camellia sinensis has been used throughout history for good health, healing and averting illness. These tea leaves generally originate from the Fuijan Province of China or the mountains of Taiwan and can also be referred to as Wu-Long tea. There is some evidence that the tea leaves from this region have a history of at least four hundred years; arriving toward the end of the Ming Dynasty.

This tea now known for ensuring many different health benefits can be found as straight oolong tea or with other enhancements such as jasmine, orange blossoms and others.

The process of manufacturing the tea is done with utmost care and in a fashion that has transcended the ages; from the time it is picked until the time it is packaged it undergoes a careful hand process. After the leaves are picked they are laid out to dry for a short amount of time where the oxidation process begins. Then the leaves are placed in baskets and shaken in order to bruise them. This exposes the juice of the leaves to the air whereby the oxidation process continues after which the leaves are laid out to dry for a second time. This process will oxidize the leaves from 20-80%, depending on the type of final product desired. The leaves will then be fired to halt the oxidation. Then they are sometimes rolled while still freshly roasted and fired several more times. As a way of finishing the process the leaves are completely cooled and then fired a final time to give the oolong tea the special flavor while reserving the healthful properties of the leaves.

Tea of all types have been under the microscope of late, and oolong tea has been studied and found to have numerous antioxidants, vitamins and minerals along with polyphenols, which all fit into a healthful regiment. Polyphenols that are found in oolong tea have the ability to remove free radicals, which are known for prematurely aging the skin along with causing the dark spots associated with aging. Free radicals have also been associated with hindering the immune system.

Oolong tea is also known for enhancing the function of enzymes, which in turn are known to dissolve triglycerides. These are the fatty deposits in the body and therefore it can aid in a weight loss regiment. There have been clinical trials done and it was found that this type of tea can raise the metabolic rate, which speeds up fat oxidation and the catechin polyphenols raise the rate that calories are burned in the body. This in turn means that oolong tea has the compounds in it to aid directly in weight loss. It is also an aid in reducing blood pressure that will in turn help to prevent hypertension; this is because of its ability to use the fatty deposits in the body as fuel for energy.
There is also possible evidence that along with the caffeine there is also an increase in stamina, which can help in an exercise regimen. Caffeine is also known to stimulate the frontal cortex of the brain; this helps in memory function and enhances the thought process.

There are other health benefits that have long been believed by Chinese herbalists such as the properties in oolong tea to reduce tooth decay and to aid in speeding oral healing because of tannic acid that is present in the tea. They also believe oolong tea assists in aiding the kidneys, as well as improving the utilization of glucose, which in turn aids the regulation of insulin.

A recent study of Japanese elderly demonstrated that those who consumed two cups of tea per day had a lower chance of cognitive impairment by approximately fifty percent. Other studies have pointed to tea’s positive impact on the onset of Alzheimer’s.

While there is evidence that oolong tea and tea in general can benefit the health of the body there is also the fact that this tea is consumption friendly. Unlike vitamins, pills, health drinks and other health foods and drinks that are supposedly good for promoting health, oolong tea has a taste that is a pleasure to drink – and it is rehydrating, and nourishing.

This is a tea that has the ability to be flavored with different herbs and florals as well as served alone. Alone it can be dark in color with a robust taste that includes a hint of raisin, honeysuckle or almond. It can also be light and floral if only partially oxidized. Flavored oolongs can be found with names and tastes such as ginger peach oolong tea, orange blossom and plum oolong tea and others. Each of these teas has their own unique flavor and some have history behind their name like the Oriental Beauty, which received its name from Queen Elizabeth II. She named the tea after a tea merchant who brought it from Asia. The name is still used today.

Green Tea, the Fat Burner

When you work out in the gym every day with that huge commitment and the results come slower than you'd like, it's a huge bummer. After all, you're eating right and burning lots of energy so what else could you do to get the weight to drop off? Turns out it may be cutting out that morning cup of coffee. I know. I can almost hear you screaming: coffee is loaded with caffeine that helps you burn fat, genius! It's true, I know, but even more important to consider is that coffee has organic acids that raise your blood sugar and raise insulin, which puts a lock on your body fat.

So what do I suggest? Switch to green tea. Black tea, oolong tea, and green tea come from the same Camellia sinensis plant but green tea leaves are not fermented before steaming and drying. You'll get your morning (or afternoon) caffeine, and you will drop insulin levels and therefore, body fat. How does it work? Researchers substances found in this tea known as catechins may trigger weight loss by stimulating the body to burn calories and decreasing body fat. The International Journal of Obesity states that this tea contains polyphenols which causes your body to produce heat that burns off your body fat and the University of Chicago's Tang Center for Herbal Medical Research shows that this tea reduces the fat deposits under your skin and the fat in your belly area.

Best of all, these substances have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties, too so you can stay healthy while you get rid of excess fat. Obviously, you'll need more than just one cup in the morning to get these awesome benefits. The experts suggest drinking 3-5 cups per day and you should notice effects within a few weeks. Drinking without sweetener is best.

A Wade Whimsies of Red Rose Tea

Whoever would have thought that adding a free wade whimsy to a pack of tea would not only revive sales but become so popular that one promotion originally proposed for two to three years would span four decades, numerous issues and many countries? Enter the Canadian Red Rose Tea company.

Way back in 1967 the idea of using Wade miniatures as free premiums in packs of Red Rose Tea in Quebec Canada was born. Popularity for these Red Rose Tea Wade whimsies was so great that the initial issue of twelve models was extended into a series of thirty-two and the promotional area extended throughout Canada.

This promotion consisted of Wade whimsy miniature animals. The very early models from this issue can be distinguished from the later ones due to the fact that the “Wade England” back stamp is on the bottom of the model in a recess. In later models the back stamp appears along the rim of the model.

Also there were two different versions of the rabbit made, the earliest version has closed ears which Wade craftsmen found difficult to tidy up around the ceramic casting. So another version of rabbit was introduced this time with open ears.

It is worth mentioning that not just in the Red Rose Tea Wade whimsies but with many other Wade whimsy issues two seemingly identical models turn up. These models look very alike apart from their obvious size difference. This was due to original moulds breaking or wearing out and being replaced by smaller ones.

If you think the models look familiar then you would be correct. The majority of the Red Rose Tea Wade Whimsy promotion was re-issued as the English Whimsies 1971-1984 collection. Also Red Rose teas sister company in the United Kingdom Brook Bond followed suit and used the frog, butterfly and fan tailed goldfish for a promotion of its own. Plus the terrapin and crocodile (or alligator as shown in an advertisement for Red Rose tea from the 1960s) was previously used in the Flintstones Christmas cracker promotion ran by Balding and Mansell in 1965.

This first Red Rose tea promotion ran from 1967 to 1973 and was so successful that it was decided that they would begin another promotion again using Wade whimsies as free premiums in their packaging of the tea.

This second promotional issue was originally rolled out in selected areas of Canada and comprised a series of twenty-four Wade Whimsy nursery rhyme characters; however as before it was such a hit with Red Rose Tea drinkers that in 1973 the promotion was once again extended throughout Canada.

It is reported that over twenty million Red Rose Tea Wade whimsy nursery rhyme models were made. And once again they were used by other firms as part of their promotions one such promotion was by Lever Rexona in New Zealand as part of a Signal toothpaste promotion in the early 1970s.

The Red Rose Tea Wade Whimsy Miniature nursery rhyme promotion ran from 1972 till 1979. In 1981 the company used the excess models from the English Whoppa series that had just came to an end as their next promotion. However this time in their third promotional issue they changed their tactics.

Instead of giving away the Wade whimsy as a free premium inside the packaging of the tea, the Red Rose tea company asked collectors to send in promotional tabs from the tea boxes themselves along with $1 to cover the postage costs. The Wade whimsy Whoppa was then sent out in a small box.

In 1982 the fourth and last Red Rose Tea Canadian Wade whimsies issue was issued. It lasted for two years until 1984 and comprised again of miniature animals. Six models from the very first Red Rose Tea Canadian promotion were given a colour glaze makeover. The other seventeen models that made up this fourth issue of twenty-three animal models were from the English whimsies series.

This however this is not the end of the story.

Due to the popularity of the Canadian Red Rose Tea Wade whimsy free premium promotions the promotions were extended out into the United States of America in 1983 were they continued to remain as popular as in Canada. Even today there exists a Red Rose tea Wade whimsy promotion entitled Pet shop Friends, issued in 2006.

A Suggestion to Consume Tea

Tea has become the second most consumed beverage in the world, second only to water. It's not that much of a surprise however, as you will soon see. Tea is a beverage that comes from tea leaves which are mainly from the camellia plant which contain polyphenols, a group of chemical substances which are believed to provide many health benefits such as helping reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Tea comes in many different colors such as red, green, black, and white. Although they are different colors, they come from the same type of plant. The reason there is a color difference is because the way the tea leaves are processed. Basically, the more processed the tea leaves are, the darker in color they will become. So green and white tea are the least processed of them all. Black tea is fermented and processed a lot more but still contains polyphenol so the health benefits are still there.

The reason why polyphenol is important is because it has an antioxidant structure. What antioxidants do is gives an electron to the free radicals and thereby balancing them and making them more stable. They don't necessary get rid of the radicals, they just help stabilize and control them.

So how much tea should you drink? Studies have shown that you have to drink 3-5 cups of tea a day. Keep in mind that just because these are the statistics that these studies show, it doesn't necessary mean that it's 100% accurate. Tea has caffeine in it but it's about half the amount that brewed coffee has. Because it has caffeine, you shouldn't overly consume tea on a daily basis.

The best way to make tea is by using a teapot. They come in many different sizes and styles. Some are just basic and some are more convenient, allowing you to stop the brewing process to give you the right flavor of your choice. It is generally better than using a teabag and placing it in your cup because the flavor can be better distributed. The benefits of tea are many. After all, as the saying goes, tea is the cup of life.

Green Tea is Supplement for Your Body

In the eastern world, green tea has long since been established as possessing a number of excellent health benefits. However, its popularity was non-existent in the western world for hundreds of years. This is somewhat perplexing since black tea has been popular in the western world for centuries. So, why is it that black tea is more preferable to green tea? On the most basic level, it possesses a taste that may be too weak or bitter for people that are used to the stronger counterpart. Again, this is unfortunate because green tea is known for its healthy aspects. Namely, it can boost energy, metabolism, and the body's fat burning potential. So, what can people do that wish to take advantage of these benefits if they do not wish to drink green tea? They can simply take capsules as these capsules provide all the health benefits in a completely different delivery system.

When you take green tea capsules, you take them in a manner that you would ingest any other supplement or vitamin. Simply take the recommended number of capsules with a full glass of water. The water will not only allow the capsules to go down easier, it will also help to absorb them into your system in a much easier and more efficient manner. This is an important point because you will always want to take the capsules in a manner that ensures they deliver their benefit in the best manner possible. This brings up another helpful point. Mainly, the fact that green tea can be ingested in the form of capsules adds to the convenience of taking them. Because of our lifestyles, it is not always easy to make a cup of green tea. When you are running around town making tea is pretty much impossible. And, due to the lack of its availability in convenience stores, purchasing a cup of green tea is next to impossible. Thankfully, taking the capsules will allow you to circumvent this difficulty and enjoy all the benefits. And these benefits can be quite pronounced.

Some tests have even shown green tea acts combatively against many diseases. While individual results will vary among different users of the capsules, the released information is certainly good news for those looking to care for their health. Yes, there are many benefits to using this supplement and that is why they are continually growing in popularity. As such, if you are concerned about your health and would like to take advantage of the positive aspects of green tea, exploring the use of capsules would be a wise move.

Green Tea and Its Side Effects

Health beneficial green tea side effects were previously only available to those who wanted or could tolerate caffeine. Thankfully it is now possible to reap the benefits without the caffeine. This drink is possibly one of the healthiest drinks you can add to your diet right now. It's been known to fight heart disease, lower blood pressure, regulate cholesterol levels, and more.

Green tea contains caffeine which most people do not react well to. It contains around 35% of the caffeine content in a cup of regular coffee. Now at first glance you can say that it is not that much. However, you have to drink multiple cups of green tea per day in order to receive its full health benefits. So the caffeine you ingest over those multiple cups may actually end up being more than 1 whole cup of coffee.

The side effects of green tea that result from caffeine can include the jitters, anxiety, dry throat, and a crash after the effects are over (especially for those sensitive to caffeine). What's more it is very addictive and habit forming. Relying on caffeine to start your day, to stay up late or get a boost of energy can lead to dependency.

The thing about this beverage is that most people do not think much of the caffeine inside because of its color and health properties. Because of this, they drink multiple cups per day, which eventually results in the same side effects of drinking 1-2 cups of coffee every day.
The benefits on the other hand, are huge. Studies have shown that catechins from teas (such as green tea) are acting as powerful anti-oxidants protecting cells from damage.

With immense benefits like these, it makes it a win/lose situation for people who do not want to ingest any caffeine. But there is a great solution in green tea extract pills. All the great nutrients are packed into these pills without the caffeine. This makes is easy to get the health boost from green tea while you're on the go as well.

Another benefit from these pills is that they often are formulated with higher amounts of polyphenols, vitamin C and E, and the main ingredient EGCG. EGCG has been shown to assist the metabolic process in addition to the disease fighting properties. This makes green tea a great supplement to your overall diet and a weight loss regimen.

As you can see, while the side effects of green tea can be bad for people who are sensitive to caffeine, there are many benefits to be had. Fortunately, those who don't want to drink multiple cups of drink tea have a solution in extract drops and tablets.

Chemical Content of Kombucha

Some chemical contents of Kombucha are:

1. Vitamin B1

Vitamin B1 takes part in carbohydrate metabolism for producing energy. It is suggested to fulfill the body’s need of vitamin B1, approximately 0.4 milligrams for each 1,000 calories. The insufficient of vitamin B1 can cause beri-beri disease.
It also takes part as coenzyme in energy-production reactions from carbohydrate and transforms energy for creating ATP.

2. Vitamin B2

Vitamin B2 is needed for processing amino acid, lipid, and carbohydrate to produce ATP. ATP also functions as anti-oxide.

3. Vitamin B3

Vitamin B3 is needed in metabolism process for producing energy. It also takes part in lipid metabolism, to decrease LDL level and to increase HDL level.

4. Vitamin B6

Insufficient of vitamin B6 can decrease immune system of the body.

5. Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 and folat acid takes part in inter-cell metabolism. Insufficient of vitamin B12 can affect body growth.

6. Vitamin B15

Vitamin B15 comes from amino glycine acid. It takes part as oxygenator of body’s network and capturer of free radical particles.

7. Vitamin C

Vitamin C takes part in improving body endurance. The sufficient level of vitamin C for adult is 60 milligrams per day.

8. Folat acid

Folat acid is family of vitamin B. It functions to produce erythrocyte, recover injuries, and form muscles.

9. Glucoronic acid

Glucoronic acid functions to conjugate toxin and another metal.

10. Gluconic acid

Gluconic acid functions to preserve food in the body.

11. Etanoat acid

Etanoat acid is the biggest part of acid produced by fermentation process of Kombucha. Its main role is binding toxin.

12. Condroitin sulfate acid

Condroitin sulfate acid takes part to keep the healthiness of body joints.

13. Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid takes part as lubricant of body joints.

14. Lactate acid

15. Paracetamol

Paracetamol functions as analgesic.

16. Essential amino acid

Amino acid takes part to produce protein.

17. Enzyme

Enzyme helps the body metabolism.

18. Antibiotics

Antibiotics in Kombucha take part to limit the growth of another pathogen bacterium.

How to Make Perfect Green Tea

Green tea has many health benefits and these are well documented. From helping to lose weight, to helping to fight cancer, and from helping to prevent arthritis to helping to prevent heart attacks. It's no surprise then that people are drinking green teas for health reasons, as well as for the taste and enjoyment of the tea.

If you've tried green tea and didn't like it, then it might be because the tea wasn't made properly. The usual complaint is that that it's too bitter. This can be due to the fact that the water used to make the tea was too hot. If the tea was made with water at the right temperature, then it might have been left to brew for too long, which also affects the taste.

So, what do you need to make the perfect cup of green tea every time?
Presumably you already have a kettle and a cup, so the only items you'll need are:

1. Green Tea

Choosing the right tea will make a difference. You might already know which teas you like, or may have never tried it before. Green Tea can be purchased from many places, and once you've found an online store that sells many different teas, you can try other teas too. It's worth getting a good quality tea, especially if you are drinking it for the health benefits.

Depending on the supplier's recommendations, you can assume that you'll use around teaspoon of tea per cup of water.

2. Teapot

A glass or steel teapot is ideal for making green tea in. This will give the tea and water plenty of room to infuse. Alternatively you might want to use a coffee cafétière if you are just making one cup of tea.



3. Thermometer

You'll need a thermometer to make sure that the water you use is at the right temperature for green tea. It needs to be around 80-85ºC, so not boiling. If boiling water is used, then the tea will be burnt, and so taste bitter, and not nice to drink.

4. Timer

A timer is used so that you can make sure that the tea is brewed for the right length of time. You could use a kitchen timer or a stopwatch. Around 2 - 2½ minutes is all it takes to steep green tea. If it is left for longer then it won't taste as it should do.

5. Tea Strainer

A tea strainer is used so that the tea leaves are kept out of the cup when you pour the tea into a cup. You might prefer to use a metal ball that goes in the tea pot, to infuse the tea. This means that the tea is kept in one place so that you don't need to use a strainer.

Alternatively, if you want to take all the hassle out of making green tea, you could use a Tea Machine. All you need to do is to tell it what sort of tea you are using, and the tea machine does the rest, so that you have the perfect cup of tea every time. You don't need to worry about water temperatures or steeping times. If you drink a lot of green tea, or drink different teas, then this machine could prove to be invaluable, so that every cup of tea you make will taste just like it should do.

Green Tea Tablets without Side Effect of Caffeine

Do you want to add green tea as part of a healthy diet but don't want the effects of caffeine as a resulting of drinking it? There is a solution offered in green tea tablets which can give you the same benefits without the side effects.

Compared to other teas and caffeine-laden drinks such as black tea, cola, and coffee, this drink only has a portion of caffeine content. However, to recognize and get all the health properties of green tea, it is recommended that you drink 3 or more cups per day. This is obviously difficult to do, not to mention the amount of caffeine you end up ingesting as a result of drinking so many cups.

If you're like me and you're sensitive to the effects of caffeine (like the jitters, the crash, and anxiety) or prefer to go through the day without it, even the smallest amounts of it can be bothersome. This was especially true for me because I was one of those people who would just get the jitters and end up tired after a few sips of it.

So what do you do if you want the benefits of green tea without the caffeine? One way is to get the decaffeinated version. Like coffee, you can get this decaffeinated but this is mainly for people who enjoy drinking it. For people who want the health promoting properties, it is not suitable because the process of decaffeination removes many of the important nutrients.

So to get the same benefits without the caffeine, you can take green tea tablets. These tablets are made by extracting all the goodness inside the tea and putting it in a tablet form. What this means is that instead of drinking 3 cups of this excellent beverage per day, you'll get all the nutrients in one tablet.

The main ingredient is EGCG which is a polyphenol (nutrient found in various fruits and vegetables) known for its effectiveness against diseases, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, maintaining cholesterol, even fighting symptoms of arthritis. And because it is extracted from green tea, there is a higher amount of polyphenols in the tablets than in a single cup of this beverage.

So if you're one of the unfortunate people who can't tolerate caffeine very well, there's an answer in green tea tablets. Even if you handle caffeine well, most people are not drinking enough green tea to reap its benefits. That's why these tablets are a great supplement for everyone looking to improve their health.

Catechin and Polyphenol in a Cup of Tea

For 4,000 years, the Chinese people have been using green tea as treatment for everything from headaches to depression.

Today, studies are conducted in Asia and the west in order to produce hard evidence of the health benefits of green tea. In the 1994 edition of the Journal of National Cancer Institute, the results of an epidemiological study stated that one of the health benefits of drinking green tea is that it can reduce the risk of esophageal cancer in Chinese men and women by up to 60%.

The rich presence of catechin and polyphenols, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is the reason why green tea has so much health benefits. A powerful antioxidant, EGCG can not only inhibit the growth of cancer cells but can also destroy them without harming healthy cells.

The University of Purdue has also concluded a research on how a certain compound present in green tea can stop cancer cells from growing. Still another health benefit of green tea is its ability to lower down cholesterol levels and improve the ratio between good (HDL) cholesterol and bad (LDL) cholesterol.

The EGCG in green tea is a health benefit substance that can lower down LDL cholesterol levels and stop blood from forming abnormal clots (thrombosis), a leading cause of heart attacks and strokes.

Green tea has more health benefits compared to other Chinese teas like oolong and black tea, all of which come from the plant Camellia sinensis. What makes green tea different is the process by which it is made. Green tea owes much of its health benefits to how the Camellia sinensis leaves are steamed. The steam process keeps the EGCG health benefit of green tea from oxidizing. With oolong and black teas, however, the leaves are fermented instead of being steamed, thus causing the EGCG health benefit to transform into another less medicinally potent form.

Aside from medicinal value, green tea can also offer other health benefits, especially in the fitness field. Drinking green tea can cause a person to burn down more calories. A recent study on the health benefits of green tea shows that the drink can help dieters. According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 1999, men who take both caffeine and green tea burn down more calories than men who only take caffeine or a placebo.

Another health benefit of green tea is its bacteria-destroying properties. The health benefit of green tea in this area is that it can help prevent food poisoning and also prevent tooth decay. The substances found in green tea kill the bacteria causing food poisoning and those that cause dental plaque to form.

Well known for its countless medicinal and health benefits, green tea is nothing short of a miracle.

7 Benefits of Drinking Tea

There has been word circulating against drinking tea. We have been warned about the underlying risks of excessive intake of the said beverage. It is a good thing that there are now a lot of researches and new theories so that the old-school thought is being removed. Drinking tea is now considered very important for the health. Here are some of the benefits of the beverage:

1. It can help lower cholesterol. It was found that it can be an antidote for high cholesterol. This is due to the fact that it contains flavonoids. Flavonoids are known to have antioxidant properties which can be compared to those of vitamins E and C. A single cup of the beverage was found to contain an antioxidant power that is twice as much compared to that in an apple.
2. It can strengthen your bones. Due to its fluoride content, tea can help protect your bones. It can also help protect your teeth from cavities and any gum disease.
3. It can help ease nasal congestion. Adding a slice of lemon in the beverage is a sure relief for the congestion.
4. It fights the common cold and flu. Drink the beverage along with a teaspoon of mint and chamomile. Let it simmer for five minutes before serving.
5. It can cure sore throat. Just add a drop of honey and see the results!
6. It can prevent insomnia. Adding a spoonful of milk plus a teaspoonful of chamomile will let make you fall asleep quite easily.
7. It can cure motion-induced nausea.

A Little Part of Tea History

Tea's proper use is to amuse the idle and relax the studious, to dilute the full meal of those who cannot use exercise and will not use abstinence.

The tea we drink and know so well is actually a camellia, Camellia sinensis. First discovered as a tea, or, dried leaf tip that could be added to boiling water as a drink.

Its discovery was due to the ancient Chinese culture of herbal medicine and is traditionally attributed to Shen Nong, said to have lived about 2.500 years ago.

Teas origin was as a medicinal herb, used to clear the mind and was promptly adopted by scholars and Buddhist monks during meditation.

Although tea had been widely prepared as a drink throughout China for over 2000 years, we must remember that China, to the Europeans was totally unknown, except for very minor reports and references in books, i.e. from a Persian traveller in 1559 who mentions tea as a wonderful antidote to fever, headache and stomach ache!

It was, however, the Dutch who first imported tea into Europe in 1610 as a purely medicinal drink, but by 1637, tea was being imported into Holland as a hot drink with an increasing popularity. Holland, at this time, was the tea drinking country, not England.
Tea was drunk in England, on a small scale. However, tea arrived in England with a new vigor via the restoration of the monarchy in 1660, with the return to England of Charles II, who had lived in exile among the tea drinking Dutch.

But it was via Portugal that tea drinking in England received its real boost. The Portuguese had, throughout the 15th century been Europe’s leading sea power, with a vast and adventurous merchant fleet trading between Lisbon, India and the southern Chinese port of Canton. Portugal had been the very first to encounter tea having a virtual control of trade to Asia until about 1600.
Portugal had been the first foreign power to be granted a trading concession by the Imperial Chinese government, with imported goods, hardly known in Europe, including silks, porcelain, lacquer ware and tea, establishing Lisbon as an important and wealthy city.

By the middle of the 17th century, tea was the drink of choice at the Portuguese court.

In 1661 a political union was established between England and Portugal and as was the style of the day, the political union was followed by a Royal marriage between England and Portugal, which symbolized the union between the two kingdoms.

In 1662 Princess Catherine of Braganza was sent to England to be the Royal bride of Charles ll. Catherine, now Queen of England, further promoted tea at the English court. The new Queens passion for tea firmly established tea drinking at court, which very quickly spread throughout high society.

Today, tea is an inexpensive drink enjoyed by anyone who wishes to drink it, but it was not always so. Tea in the 17th and 18th century was very expensive, indeed, a luxury drink enjoyed only by the wealthy classes. We can still see preserved posters from Thomas Garways London tea and coffee shop, with tea priced at 16 to 60 shillings a pound! And in 1664 a poster, advertising tea at 4Pounds and 5/- shillings for a little over two pound weight. In 1664 this was a vast amount of money, well beyond the purse of the average family.

By the early 18th century, the fashion for tea was gaining new ground and the price for standard grade tea had dropped to about 12 - 14 shillings a pound, a sum of money equal to the average weekly income of a master craftsman at the time.

With tea being a privilege of the rich, it soon became something to show-off about and the tea ceremony began to develop. This allowed the host to give a lavish display of wealth and status, in the 18th century, your wealth and social standing was something to display and the grander the display, the better.

The tea table became a social centre and to extend hospitality to guests could be an expensive exercise, we find a London magazine of 1744 reporting that it could cost more to maintain a fashionable tea table than to keep two children and a nurse!

Both English and Continental porcelain makers and silver smiths vied with each other to produce the most elegant tea wares for the fashionable tea table.

Fine furniture makers, produced beautiful tea table furniture and tea caddies, where the lady of the house could safely lock the tea away from servants with sticky fingers! In fact, it was a perquisite, or privilege of the senior footman to salvage the tealeaves from the tea pot, dry them in the sunlight and reuse them for himself, or, even sell them.

In the 18th century, tea was usually served, mid afternoon, after dinner, which was served in the early afternoon. The lady of the house presided over the ritual of the tea table, which by now had become almost a ceremony, with rules of etiquette specific to taking tea. By example, there is a Thomas Rawlinson cartoon; named, The French Visitors, The Frenchmen are seen, cross legged and red in the face, obviously, desperate to relieve them, written in the balloon shape coming from their mouths is, Please, Madam, no more tea!! The joke, in 18th century terms, was that they did not know the tea table etiquette which required a guest to place his / her spoon in the tea cup to indicate to the hostess, no more, thank you.

This generous hostess had kept refilling the French visitors’ cups and they, too polite to say, no more, thank you.

As the 18th century began to fade into the early 19th century, tea, now being grown by the British in India and Ceylon, became less and less expensive, eventually to become a staple of the poorer classes. Of particular benefit, although not understood at the time was the fact the drinking water was now being boiled, so that the many diseases spread by contaminated drinking water began to decline.

The tea, that we know today, is a very inexpensive drink, enjoyed by millions, the elegant ritual of the tea table, now reduced to a mug and a tea bag.

Why People Drink Tea?

Tea is perhaps surprisingly the second most popular drink after water. It's drunk throughout world, and it is becoming increasingly popular thanks to the health benefits that different teas can provide.

Here are 10 reasons why people drink tea.

1. Tea is refreshing, and cools you down on hot days. Despite being a hot drink, it helps to regulate the body's temperature and so cools you down. This explains why tea is so popular in hot countries. Tea is very popular in Kenya, India and Sri Lanka, as well as many other hot countries.
2. A breakfast tea such as Earl Grey or Sencha 2nd Flush Green Tea can be drunk in the morning in order to help you wake up and feel stimulated. A cup of tea is a great start to the day when combined with breakfast.
3. Sweet tea is known to be good for people suffering from shock. This is why tea is often offered to people who have been involved in accidents, or have received bad news.
4. Drinking tea has many health benefits. Green and White teas have been proven to help protect against cancer; reduce the pain and suffering for those with arthritis; help to prevent heart attacks, help with weight loss, and much more. Green and White teas really are superfoods.
5. People who enjoy the finer things in life will often drink gourmet tea, which require a bit of patience to make, but the results are definitely worth it. This is because different teas need the water at different temperatures, and need to be steeped for different times. An alternative to remembering the right temperatures and brewing times is to use a tea machine. All you have to do is to tell it what sort of tea you are using, and it does the rest, so that your tea is always brewed to perfection, every time.
6. Tea contains less caffeine than coffee, and so can be drunk throughout the day without the effects that drinking too much coffee can bring.
7. It's always the right time for a cup of tea. With different teas suitable for drinking all day long, whether you want to get yourself going in the morning, enjoy the evening after a nice meal, or get in the mood for going to sleep, there's a tea that's just right for you.
8. China, India, and Japan are probably the most well known producers of tea, but Kenya, Sri Lanka and South America also produce tea. Even if you know what your favourite tea is, why not try one from a different country
9. Herbal teas are infusions rather than teas, as they are not made with tea leaves, but are still often classed as teas. Many of these herbal infusions offer health benefits, such as herbal mint infusions aiding an upset stomach, or South African Rooibos which has calming effects and is often given to children.
10. Making tea isn't difficult, and most tea drinkers use a teabag, kettle, teapot and a cup.

Now you know why people drink tea, and why it's so popular, isn't it time that you drank tea, or tried a different sort of tea than the tea bags you normally use?

Many Kinds of Tea

Ask for a cup of tea in a restaurant and you'll likely end up with something black - probably an Orange Pekoe or an English Breakfast. Most people are familiar with black teas (they're also used to make iced tea, the kind you'd also get if you ordered one in a restaurant) and have probably tasted one or two, but did you know that there are at least 6 other kinds of tea out there?

Obviously Green Tea is another popular kind, widely known for its antioxidant health benefits, but if you'd like to branch out into the tea world, here are some other kinds and what to expect when you uncover them.

1. Oolong Tea. All tea comes from the same Camellia sinensis, but this tea in particular is very fragrant. If you've had tea in a Chinese restaurant before, this is likely what you were served. It's generally brewed on the stronger side and has a relatively sweet aftertaste. Oolong tea is closer in flavor to a green tea than a black tea, but it offers less of a grassy-type flavor than green. Oolong tea provides about 15% of the caffeine content you'd find in a cup of coffee.
2. White Tea. White Tea is the least processed tea of the all. Referred to as the purest tea, this tea also has the highest level of antioxidants. If you like a tea with less of a caffeine kick, this one is for you because it's very low in caffeine content. Delicate and naturally sweet, this tea is subtly complex.
3. Mate Tea. Mate tea is uniquely flavorful infusion, and contains a stimulant other than caffeine that reacts differently in the body from other stimulants. Often referred to as the "diet" tea, this tea can act as an appetite suppressant and is made from a wild shrub in Argentina called yerba mate.
4. Rooibos Tea. Also referred to as "red tea," this tea is made from an infusion of the South African red bush. Rooibos tea is naturally caffeine free and very beneficial to your health. It can occasionally contain pieces of fruit, causing it to be high in Vitamin C. It is also said to alleviate allergies.
5. Green Tea. Everyone has heard about the antioxidant benefits of green tea, but did you know that green tea can also be beneficial against gingivitis and cavities? Not only that, but it also works to regulate your blood sugar! Green teas range in flavor from fruity (when infused with these flavors) to a traditional grassy taste.
6. Herbal Tea. Herbal teas are different in that they are not made from the same Camellia sinensis plant, but rather they are an infusion of flavors from different fruits and herbs. Also known as herbal infusions, they are naturally caffeine free and each provides a unique health benefit based on the herb(s) being infused. Flavors range from fruity and light to heavy and fragrant. Cammomile tea has been used for centuries as a sedative and to aid in weight loss.
7. Black Tea. Of course, we still need to mention our most popular tea here in the west. Black tea provides 20% of the caffeine of coffee and often has a stronger flavor than other teas. Many people drink their black tea with sugar or cream. Medical research suggests that black tea may aid in lowering cholesterol!

Weight Loss Plans

There is a buzz about drinking green tea to lose weight. Consider this a dieter's tea for healthy weight loss. Drinking green leaf tea should be part of your weight loss plans. The reasons are numerous.

The health benefits of drinking quality loose leaf green have been known for centuries. Science has proven time and time again the benefits of green tea. It is now making startling headlines again. Science now confirms drinking green loose leaf tea as part of a daily routine not only helps you lose weight, but keep it off!

This tea contains polyphenols. Scientists identify these as catechins and they have the ability to promote the increased release of the hormone, norepinephrine. This is the primary fat burning hormone in our body. Green loose leaf tea has an abundance of catechins and makes this one of the green tea fat burner properties.

Green loose leaf tea also contains caffeine. This enhances or increases the action of the catechins to make the tea a more powerful fat burning dieter's drink.

The health and weight loss benefit of drinking green leaf tea does not stop there. Yes, there is more good news to benefit your body for a healthy weight loss. Research studies have shown that drinking green loose leaf tea helps to regulate blood sugar by interfering with an enzyme that breaks down the carbohydrates we ingest.

Carbohydrates turn into sugar when digested. By slowing the digestion of carbohydrates your body will not experience a sudden increase in blood sugar levels followed by a dip or low. These low blood sugars promote hunger and food cravings to get that sugar level up again. We then feel hungry and want to eat. Drinking green loose tea with a meal will help stop that cycle and promote weight loss.

Green leaf tea also has powerful antioxidant properties. More than Vitamin C, beta carotene, and some other teas! In fact, the concentration of antioxidants is 200 percent more potent than vitamin E! These antioxidant properties are very important to help our bodies heal and recover from the stressors of everyday life. They heal our bodies by fighting the free radicals we release. Weight loss is an extra added stressor and the concentrated antioxidants found in leaf tea promote health and well being.

Green loose tea also contains natural stress reducer known as theanine. This will not only help you relax and reduce stress, it will give you a sense of well-being. This is always a plus for an individual on a weight loss plan.

Research studies have found that drinking green loose tea along with an exercise program will increase and enhance your body's fat burning ability. The study found that mice that were given green tea to drink lost an amazing 47% more body fat than the mice on just a regulated diet. The news only gets better. The mice that exercised and drank green tea lost an amazing 89% more weight than the mice on a regulated diet.

The results show that by including diet, exercise, healthy eating and loose leaf green tea into your everyday routine you can dramatically increase your weight loss.

The news gets even better. Studies show that it is not how much you drink of the green tea that is important. Moderation and consistency is the key. Drinking three to six cups of loose leaf green tea a day, as part of a daily routine will help keep the weight off. The study found that individuals that drank green tea for a period of ten years or more had 5% less body fat then non tea drinkers. This is great news for anyone wanting to maintain their weight after a weight loss program.

Your weight loss plans should include drinking green tea to lose weight and keep it off. As a dieter's tea for healthy weight loss and maintenance take advantage of loose leaf tea.

Green Tea, the Asian Culture

Green Tea has been associated with the Asian culture, where it is used as a tasty tea and for medicinal purposes. However, the Western culture has begun adopting this in their everyday diet. In the last 20 years or so, it has been studied for its health benefits. These studies are both scientific and medical in nature, and it's been shown that it does have many health benefits, as well as being a potent antioxidant.


As well as its antioxidant properties, this is gaining a reputation for being able to assist in over all heart health and increase good cholesterol levels, thus leading to stronger heart heat health; decreasing heart disease and stroke.
Green Tea has been used as a:

1. stimulant
2. diuretic
3. increase heart health
4. ease gas
5. regulate blood sugar
6. augment digestion
7. boost mental functionality
8. lower chances of heart disease

It is currently being studied for its ability to ease cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes and liver disease, as well as help with weight loss. Studies have shown, its properties possibly have a positive effect on ovarian cancer. Women who drank a minimum of one cup per day, and who had ovarian cancer, lived longer that those who did not.

Research has suggested that it may also lower total cholesterol and increase HDL, or "good" cholesterol. One population-based study, found that men who actively drank this were more likely to have lower total cholesterol levels than men who did not. Polyphenols, which are found may block the intestinal absorption of cholesterol, as well as encourage its secretion from the body.

• Said to have many healthful benefits
• Fairly inexpensive

This is clearly a very healthful element which has been shown to ease a variety of issues. It can also be said, this is a fairly inexpensive alternative when it comes to looking for easy, everyday ways to achieve better overall health.

Green Tea is better Than Other Types of Tea

Green tea has enjoyed considerable attention in western countries lately due to its claimed health properties. This attention doesn’t come as a surprise to people living in Asian countries like China and Japan who have been enjoying the benefits of green tea for more than 4000 years.

However many companies have recognised the interest in green tea health benefits and created a range of green tea related supplements. Sometimes these companies make unproven claims about the health benefits of their products.

How is green tea better than other types of tea?
There are 3 main types of tea:
• Black Tea – made by exposing the tea leaves to air, heat, crushing and light
• Green Tea – Leaves are steamed or heated quickly to stop them oxidizing
• Oolong Tea – This is in-between, is not processed for as long as black tea but more than green tea

Because Green Tea hasn’t oxidized as much as other teas and it’s subjected to less fermentation and processing it usually contains higher levels of antioxidants and other health giving properties. However there are different grades of green tea and the levels of antioxidants present in the finished product depend on how, where and when it was picked.

What are the main benefits of green tea?
The main reason green tea provides health benefits to drinkers is the high levels of powerful natural antioxidants, called ‘Polyphenol’. Green tea is loaded with particular a type of Polyphenol called ‘Catechins’.

There is no doubt that there are many green tea benefits, however there have not been enough quality scientific studies to prove all claimed benefits beyond doubt. Depending on your views on conventional western science verses traditional Chinese medicine, some of the benefits below may be seen as potential benefits.

Green tea benefits include:
• Reducing cholesterol levels
• Aiding weight loss
• Helping to stabilize diabetes
• Slowing down the ageing process
• Improving levels of healthy bacteria
• Improving mouth and dental health
• Replenishing skin

It is the same chemical, the catechins, which provide all these green tea benefits. The antioxidants in green tea are able to eliminate and neutralize dangerous free radicals (caused by oxidzination) present in the body. People are more exposed to free radicals in modern, polluted environments.

Another benefit of green tea is its ability to increase the rate of the bodies’ metabolism, which in turns speeds up fat oxidation - this encourages weight loss.

How much green tea do I need to drink?
Most of the studies have shown that you need to drink approximately 3 cups of green tea a day to get enough antioxidants to achieve the health benefits above.
Where should I buy green tea?
Don’t just go for the cheapest tea from your local supermarket. It’s often been grown in less than perfect conditions and may provide less health benefits. Buy loose tea from a specialist tea/coffee store or online shop. These people are experts and understand the different varieties of green tea available.

Is Green Tea a Fat Metabolizer?

Is green tea a fat metabolizer or not? Dieters are always searching for the best weight loss solution. They want something that will burn as much excess fat from their body as possible with the least side effects. One of the most heavily marketed and talked about supplements which aid in losing weight has been green tea.

There are numerous products for weight loss centered on fads and miracle ingredients. This drink has its history in Asian countries. It was a tea used for everything from ceremonies, casual drinking, and as a health aid. What makes it so different from other kinds of teas such as black and white teas is that it is produced by steaming. This process results in it retaining higher amounts of polyphenols like EGCG.

This is what gives green tea its magic in weight loss regimens. The polyphenol EGCG has the ability to increase thermogenesis in your body. This means that it increases the heat in your body to increase your metabolic rate. This results in your body burning more calories than normal from whatever you do. So your body will burn extra calories while digesting or exercising, making it a great supplement to your regular diet and exercise plan.

In a study done with 60 obese women, half the women were given a green tea diet pill while the others were given a placebo pill. The researchers made sure that the women were eating the same amount of meals, at the same time and with the same calories. What had occurred after a two week period was astonishing. The study revealed that the women who had taken the green tea pills had lost 23%-77% more weight loss (on average) than the women who had taken the placebo pills. This proves the effectiveness of this drink for weight loss.

The caffeine you find in this drink also increases your metabolic rate which is another huge plus in a diet. These properties make green tea a fat metabolizer that works. So if you want to give your efforts to lose weight a huge boost, you can start off by drinking 3 cups of this beverage per day to see how it works for you. If you feel like you want to take it further. You may want to try green tea diet pills as they are formulated with other ingredients that help you burn calories faster and more effectively.

Overall, it is a proven supplement for weight loss. While you cannot depend on it alone to lose weight (proper nutrition and exercise is of course required), it is effective if used on a consistent basis throughout your weight loss regimen. So go ahead and prove it to yourself - start using green tea as a fat metabolizer today.

Darjeeling, the Champagne of Black Tea

Darjeeling is well known as the "champagne" of black teas. Just like fine wine, this tea comes from very special area. You can even take a "Darjeeling Tour" to see this beautiful region of India. In fact Darjeeling is a hill station of West Bengal. The place is surrounded by hills and mountains and in fact you may be able to see Mount Everest on a clear day from Tiger Hill - the highest point in the area.

The best and most spectacular way to get there is by train as it passes through forests and waterfalls. You travel through valleys, mountains and tunnels. In fact only just over a mile away there is the highest railway station in the world.

The height of the area, the clear air and sunshine are all optimal growing conditions for the famous Darjeeling tea. This tea was first planted by a Dr. Campbell who was in the Indian Medical service. He brought the seeds from China and planted them in his garden there, 4000 feet above sea level in 1841. Others followed and also planted tea. By 1852 there were several tea plantations.

Today this tea is world renowned and as is known as the "Champagne of Teas" because of its unique flavor. There are a total of 86 tea gardens spread over an area of 19000 hectares. Over 50,000 people are employed on a permanent basis but this swells to 67,000 during the tea plucking season from March to November.

If you are a tea lover, or just a lover of beautiful scenery, taking a Darjeeling tour might be just the thing for you. Here you can escape the heat of the valleys and enjoy this wonderful tea in its own spectacular surroundings.

Spectacular Afternoon Tea

Afternoon Tea is a real tradition and not only in Great Britain but in many places around the globe. In fact it is available at most five star hotels all over the world.

Originally afternoon tea came into being in the mid nineteenth century when dinner was served between 8.30pm onwards (even later in the summer months). Afternoon tea nicely filled the gap between lunch and dinner - people got hungry around 4 or 5pm but didn't want a lot of food as that would spoil their dinner later.

Today it's even a great treat when kids come home from school between 3 and 4pm. At least in Britain, it's common for them to have a cup of tea and a small sandwich or treat to go with the tea. Not only is this something they can look forward to when arriving home, but it again 'nicely fills the gap' until supper.

Afternoon tea is really easy to prepare. First of all tea is the main centerpiece so make sure it is hot and looking good in a teapot. Black tea is usually served with milk. You can make afternoon tea as easy or complicated as you like. In fact a visit to your local supermarket can get you more than you need. Tea with biscuits is simple to do. Buy an assortment of good biscuits and arrange them nicely on a plate and you're all set to go. You can also buy a cake at the supermarket (even a bakery would have great cakes and pastries you can use). Pound cake, Victoria sandwich, tea breads like raisin bread (which would be great toasted with jam and butter), Swiss roll, shortbread are all great accompaniments to a pot of tea.

If you want to make cakes, biscuits or scones yourself, then I would suggest you save some each time and put them in the freezer.

For example, if you make a pound cake, cut off a few slices and put in the freezer. If you do that each time you bake, in no time you will have quite an assortment of homemade goodies you can offer your guests. This way you can make afternoon tea with no extra effort as everything is already sitting in your freezer!

Tea and sandwiches also go hand in hand. Here the golden rule is less is more.

Afternoon tea is really just an in between snack so only serve a small variety of sandwiches and cut them in quarters. You can also cut the crusts off if you want to. Sandwich fillings can be many and varied - egg salad; cucumber with dill mayonnaise, cream cheese and radish or cream cheese and smoked salmon to name but a few. It's easy to get creative.

I thought I'd include a scone recipe as these are just so delicious with a pot of tea - anytime really but they are mostly served in the afternoon.

Basic Scone Recipe:

• 1 cup self raising flour
• a pinch of salt
• 1-2 tablespoons of sugar to taste (shouldn't be very sweet)
• 2 oz butter (traditionally salted butter is used)
• 3/4 cup cold milk

Heat oven to 425F

• Combine dry ingredients. Mix in butter. If it's very cold you can grate it into the flour mix for fast results.
• Rub butter into the flour mixture with your fingertips until mixture resembles coarse meal. Don't over mix.
• Add enough milk to get soft dough.
• Turn onto a floured surface and knead gently (again do this quickly). Pat or use a rolling pin to form a round 3/4 inch thick.
• Use a cutter (or upside down glass) to cut out the scones - they can be big or small. 2 inch diameter is normal.
• Put the cutter or glass in flour before cutting.
• Knead the left over dough bits lightly to form a circle and cut out more scones.
• Put them on a lightly greased baking sheet.
• Brush tops with milk.

Bake for 12-15 minutes until done.
Cool and serve with a good quality jam and whipped cream or double cream. Personally I like sour cream the best - the consistency is perfect!

For a savory scone:
You could also use the above recipe, leave out the sugar and add a cup of grated cheddar cheese. Serve with butter. This is one of the many reasons you can make a spectacular afternoon tea with little effort!

Green Tea without the Caffeine

Green tea is known to be one of the healthiest drinks you can possibly add to your diet. There have been numerous studies done on its various health promoting properties. If you've drank other teas you know that there is a lot of caffeine contained in them. So is green tea decaffeinated?

The answer is unfortunately no. While it's the healthiest tea out of the all the others, it still contains similar amounts of caffeine as other teas. This particular drink, on average, contains about a third of the caffeine that is in coffee. While this is still a significantly smaller amount, this is still a problem if you're one of the many people who are sensitive to caffeine but want to enjoy the benefits of drinking green tea.

As you may know, some people do not fare well with caffeine as it can be a strong stimulant. It also gives you the jitters, can cause anxiety and can result in you crashing after its effect wears off. You may also not want to depend on caffeine to get through your day or affect your performance in work. What's more, caffeine is very addictive, which is the reason why many people want to avoid it altogether.

So then what's the solution? How do you get the benefits of green tea without the caffeine? The first solution is to buy decaffeinated. What happens is that the tea goes through a decaffeination process this same process also removes many of the nutrients that contains the much talked about health properties?

The other option is much better. Nutritional companies understand the needs of consumers so they decided to take the extract of green tea and put into a tablet. Now people who are sensitive to caffeine or prefer to go without it can enjoy the health benefits without any side effects.

The main ingredient in this drink is ECGC which is a catechin (a subgroup of polyphenols) with powerful anti-oxidant and disease fighting properties. What's great about the green tea tablet supplements is that they are mixing in ingredients that work together with ECGC for better absorption and effectiveness. This results in a more beneficial supplement when you compare it to just drinking the tea itself.

So there you have it. You now have the answer to the question "is green tea decaffeinated?" You now have an alternative solution which can be taken in tablet form. If you know anybody that is sensitive to caffeine but wants to enjoy the benefits of green tea, you can recommend the tablet form as a supplement.

Lower Blood Sugar with Green Tea

Green tea is known for many things such as being a strong defense against diseases and conditions such as cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, and obesity. Now there is evidence that it may help people with diabetes or pre-diabetic conditions.

According to researchers, it can indeed lower blood sugar levels. Studies show that green tea reduces the spike of glucose and insulin when taken with sugar compared to ingesting sugar alone. The main ingredient EGCG is also known to reduce the amount of glucose that goes into your blood stream.

It goes further than that. When sugar is taken into your body, your body releases an enzyme to break it down so that it can be absorbed into your blood stream. The properties of EGCG inhibit the release of this enzyme by as much as 70-80%. This is great news for diabetics or those who are at risk of developing diabetes.

Diabetes starts when there are too many spikes in blood sugars as a result of eating too many simple carbohydrates, lack of exercise, and bad habits such as smoking. Eventually, either insulin production becomes lowered and/or cells become resistant to insulin which leaves blood sugar levels to elevate.

This results in your ability to manage blood sugar being compromised. The job of insulin is to convert sugar into the cells of your body to use as energy. But when your body becomes insulin resistant, your cells begin to depend on fat for energy and the sugar you eat stays in your blood which leads to serious conditions.

The elevation of blood sugar levels eventually lead to the damage of blood vessels and hemorrhages. This can lead to your arteries being damaged which can increase the risk of heart disease and other problems. Also you will suffer from circulation problems, which is why many patients with diabetes lose movement or blood flow to their limbs.

Green tea can help boost insulin function and also help blood sugar levels. Studies have found that Polysaccharides in green tea also have the same ability to regular blood sugar as insulin. This proves that this amazing drink has multiple ways of combating and treating diabetes.

Also remember, it also boosts your metabolism. Green tea pills and weigh loss is another area in which this extract is particularly successful. It increases your body's ability to burn calories and in turn helps get rid of more fat. The cells in your body will need to start depending on glucose rather than fat (which is one of the reasons why obesity is linked to diabetes).

The answer to the question 'Does green tea lower blood sugar?' is a definite yes but as you can see it has other associated health benefits as well. It is really beneficial to your overall diet and to a healthy lifestyle.

Enjoy the Benefits of Green Tea without the Caffeine

Green tea has long been known and proven as one of the healthiest supplements you can add to your diet but there is one thing that can be a drawback to some people. Most people do not know about the green tea caffeine content that is inside.

Some people do not respond very well to caffeine as it is a stimulant. And some people while okay with caffeine are not fond of experiencing a crash, not to mention the jitters. If you're anything like me, you don't like the crash you get from caffeine nor want to be dependent on it for your daily tasks.

There is a solution to get rid of the caffeine but first, let's talk about the health properties inside this drink. You've heard about it enough times in TV, radio, magazines and the internet to know about its health benefits. But what makes this drink so special is that it is rich in polyphenols. Polyphenols are naturally occurring nutrients which are found in many fruits and vegetables.

A subgroup of polyphenols called catechins, have proven to be powerful disease fighters. The catechin called ECGC is the main sour of green tea's disease fighting properties. Studies into ECGC have revealed that that inhibits the growth of cancel cells, lowers LDL cholesterol, protects your immune system, and relieves symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and more.
So the question now is: How do you get all these health benefits of green tea without having to also consume caffeine? There are a few solutions. The first one is to choose decaffeinated. But while there is no caffeine in these teas, the process used to remove the caffeine also removes many of the natural nutrients.

The second option is better. Nutritional companies knew about the caffeine loaded in green tea, they've decided to get rid of caffeine and extract the nutrients into pill supplements. This is the perfect way to get the benefits of this healthy beverage without the caffeine. You can take the pill and still go to sleep easily which is a better option than drinking tea before bed.

They are also adding the extracts to multi-vitamins. This way you won't have to take a multi-vitamin and another green tea tablet on a daily basis. There are also formulations that work synergistically with the drinks nutrients so that they are more effective.

As much as it's healthy for you, green tea caffeine content can be a deterrent for many people from enjoying the health benefits. So if you are not fond of caffeine look for green tea extract pills as an alternative solution.

Making Green Tea Properly

With all the health benefits associated with green tea, it's not surprising that it is often in the media, and hailed as an important aid to staying healthy and losing weight. There are many reports and claims that reckon that this tea is one of the best things you can drink. Little wonder is has become so popular.

Although what is less known, is that loose green tea is often not made properly. Many people who don't like it have either not made it properly themselves, or the person that has made it for them hasn't made it properly. The most common problem is that the water used is too hot. This makes the tea bitter, and so not nice to drink. This is usually what puts people off drinking it. The other common way in which people get green tea wrong is by steeping it for too long. A lot of teas will steep for several minutes, whereas this tea only needs to brew for a couple of minutes.

Unlike when using normal tea bags, the water for green tea should not be boiling, or have boiled. Ideally, it needs to be around 80 - 85ºC. There is a very short steeping time, of around 2 - 2½ minutes where the leaves are left in the water to infuse. Getting the temperature or steeping time wrong means that the tea won't taste right, and also means that it might not provide all of the health benefits you're drinking it for. If you get the temperature or cooking time wrong whilst cooking, then the dish won't taste as it should do, and the same is true for different teas.

Using a thermometer can help you to make sure that the temperature is right for green tea, but it can be a chore to remember to check the temperature of the water, every time you make a drink. A stopwatch or kitchen timer can be used so that you don't leave the tea to brew for too long.

The situation is made more complicated if you drink several types of tea in your household. You might have a morning tea, a green tea for during the day, a tea to help aid digestion, and one to help you relax before you go to bed. These teas may all require different water temperatures and steeping times. If you're not careful, and not organized, you can end up getting the temperatures and times mixed up, and spoiling the tea, so that it is almost undrinkable.

Getting the brewing process is difficult, and a lot of people will be put off drinking green tea as they see it as complicated, and fiddly. An alternative is to use a tea machine that will do all the hard work for you. All you have to do is tell it what sort of tea you are using, and it will do the rest. This means that you don't have to worry about getting the water temperature right or stand there with a stopwatch making sure the tea isn't brewed too long.

If you would like the benefits of drinking green tea, with the complications, it could be time to see how a tea machine could help you.

The Benefits of Oolong Tea

A tea recently exploited for its weight-loss properties, oolong tea features an old and deep history. It was cultivated and cherished by Chinese emperors thousands of years ago. Today health-conscious individuals are coming around and beginning to cherish in the same way for its health benefits.

The origin of oolong tea is the plant called the Camellia sinensis. It is a Chinese tea plant which produces black tea, green tea and oolong tea. Many people don't realize that these three teas actually come from the same plant. They only differ in the way they are harvested, aged and treated.

Black tea is allowed to oxidize for a good while after it is picked, and this oxidization process increases the caffeine and robustness of the flavor but create a flavor which seems a little distant from its origin plant. Green tea is generally boiled or treated right after being picked, so there is very little oxidization and the tea retains the plant's color and flavor.

Oolong tea is sort of in between green and black teas. The Camellia sinensis leaves are picked, sun-wilted then lightly bruised in a deliberate fashion. When they are bruised, it opens the leaf surface to the air's oxygen. This causes the internal parts of the leaf oxidize much like a cut fruit will oxidize (like the way an apple's insides slowly turn brown when exposed to oxygen).

But the oxidization process is halted much more quickly than with black tea, retaining more of the floral flavor of the original plant. The leaves are then fully dried.

Oolong teas can range from darker teas closer to black teas to light green teas closer to green teas. Thus an oolong tea can vary much more than a green tea or black tea.

Oolong teas are full of anti-oxidants. This is one of the main reasons people believe oolong teas help preserve good health. Anti-oxidants help your body fight free radicals. Free radicals are by-products of our body's digestive system which contain oxygen. These free radicals can do damage to our DNA and our cells. So eating a diet high in anti-oxidants assists our body to preserve its health and lighten the load on the aging process.

You'll see the terms wulong tea oolong tea used interchangeably. Wulong tea is the original Chinese name for this tea, but in recent years it has been adapted as the name used for oolong tea when used for weight loss.