The Art of Tea
Friday August 7, 2020
Tea is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, and it's no surprise people have been drinking tea for centuries for the pleasure, routine, taste, and for the many health benefits.
Also, tea has a high concentration of antioxidants, which may contribute to the prevention of cancer, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular diseases.
Steeping tea can be cumbersome as most people find tea to be bitter. Steeping time and the perfect water temperature will give you a perfect cup of tea every time. I've invested in an electric tea kettle that has preset water temperature. This makes this process easy! If you don't have one, then boil water, add a water temperature thermometer and add water to cool to the desired temperature.
Perfect Cup of Tea
- Black Tea: 1 teaspoon of tea, at 195 degrees Fahrenheit, 3-4 minutes.
- Green Tea: 1 teaspoon of tea, at 175 degrees Fahrenheit, 1-2 minutes
- Oolong Tea: 1 teaspoon of tea, at 195 degrees Fahrenheit, 3-4 minutes
- White Tea: 1.5 teaspoons of tea, at 175 degrees Fahrenheit, 4-5 minutes (Flavored 1-2 minutes)
- Herbal Tea: 1.5 teaspoons of tea, at 208 degrees Fahrenheit, 5-6 minutes
Here are some of the characteristics and healing properties of the major tea families:
Black Tea
This tea is more oxidized than other teas, which gives it a darker color, and a stronger flavor profile.
Health Benefits of Black Tea:
- aids the digestive system
- anti-inflammatory effects on the body
- protects the skin
- burns calories
Green Tea
This tea has not been processed as much as other forms, and so it has a gentler color and flavor profile. I love Matcha tea as it is the whole tea leave that is made into a powder.
Health Benefits of Green Tea:
- protects against cancer
- maintains heart health
- increases fat burning
Oolong Tea
This tea is made by a process of withering the leaves and drying them in the sun. This creates a light colored tea with a mild flavor profile.
Health Benefits of Oolong Tea:
- manages diabetes
- protects your teeth
White Tea
This tea is not oxidized or rolled, and this creates a mild flavor profile. My favorite White Tea is Jasmine Pearls. It is so light and beautiful.
Health Benefits of White Tea:
- supports mental health
- fights bacteria
Herbal Tea
This tea is comprised of the dried properties of petals, leaves, seeds, roots, stems, and petals of a multitude of plants and flowers.
Health Benefits of Herbal Tea:
- aids in digestion
- relieves anxiety and stress
- helps with sleep
- provides anti-inflammatory properties
doTERRA Essential Oil Tea
Making your own tea is easy to do with essential oils and warm water. I love adding a drop of my favorite essential oil to a cup. My go to in the afternoon is a one drop of Cinnamon Bark, Peppermint and Lemon on top of a teaspoon of honey. Then add warm water, stir and sip. Yum!
My intention is to inspire you to slow down and to brew a cup of tea. May it warm your soul and bring you a sense of peace.
"There is something in the nature of tea that leads us into a world of quiet contemplation of life." -Lin Yutang
Until the next time,
🌿Be Well, de😊
â˜®ï¸ Peace. 💚 Love. 💦Oils.