FoodDrink Tea

Most of us have either had green tea or black tea in one way or the other. It provides a soothing effect that everybody longs for, because of the presence of caffeine in it. Some may consider tea as a bad habit, because a person may get addicted to it and start substance abuse, but recent scientific studies in this regard have proven tea to have many good health benefits essential for our well-being.

One of the types of tea we drink is green form of tea. Apart from the tea itself, there are now new products in the market termed as liquid green tea extracts. They are made from the leaf itself which is used to make the green and black tea. The name of this leaf is camellia sinensis. Only preliminary scientific research has been done in this regard, but those done suggest that this tea extract is associated with several health benefits, including potential cancer fighting capabilities and strong antioxidant abilities that are responsible for helping the body out with its defense against very dangerous compounds known as free radicals. These free radicals affect our body cells in a way that promote the growth of cancerous cells.

Before this scientific research even came on, in fact long before that, this amazing tea has been used in India and China for almost 5000 years for medicinal purposes. It is made by lightly steaming leaves of the above mentioned plant before allowing them to dry. This ensures that the active good ingredients in the tea are not destroyed so that it can allow the body to benefit nutritionally and get health benefits from the tea plant.

The liquid green tea extracts are standardized in the production phase to help out in preserving the natural goodness of the this amazing tea itself. They are extracted in such a way as to protect and preserve all the natural active ingredients present, so it can help out the body positively and retain the health benefits. The antioxidant activities of this form of tea is known to be 100 times more efficient then that of the vitamin C and E.

From the statistics collected by China, Japan and such countries where green tea is used frequently, it can be safely said that this amazing tea is a major factor of the low cancer rate in those countries. As of right now, there is a considerable amount of evidence from promising studies that the active ingredients in this form of the tea are responsible for lowering down the risk of cancer.

Apart from reducing the risk of cancer for a person, liquid green tea extracts can also prove useful in the cardiovascular system of the body, by reducing the risk of heart attacks. It does so by actively reducing the bad cholesterol levels in our body, and increasing the good cholesterol levels.

STOP! Are You Ready To Lose Some Weight?

Discover Why People Lose Their Money on Weight Loss Products. Visit Crash Weight Loss and Find Out The Latest Reviews On Top-Rated Weight Loss Products.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Khurram_Saleem

Read More...

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 on the go and 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, yes, these benefits can be quite pronounced. For example, did you know that green tea to reduce the potential for contracting cancer? No, this does not mean the capsules will act as a "wonder drug" but clinical studies has presented some unique and interesting findings. Specifically, clinical tests show those that take green tea regularly find themselves at a reduced risk for certain forms of cancer.

Some tests have even shown green tea acts combatively against certain cancer cells. 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.

Ingrid is an avid researcher of natural health supplements and believe the path to a long and healthy life is finding and taking the best natural herbal vitamins and mineral extracts to help keep your mind and body in great health. Visit her website http://www.abc-supplement-website.info to learn more about the great health supplements she research and recommend.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ingrid_Gillette

Read More...

The great appeal of tea reveals itself through the vast array of options available to you in your local grocery store or any online distributor. Although many hot beverages call themselves tea, there are in fact several variations and not all of them are based on the true tea plant.

True tea is created from the leaves of a plant called Camellia sinensis. These teas include white, green, oolong, and black tea. The list may seem longer because there are different varieties of these teas and sometimes they are flavored by adding other plants, spices or oils to them.

Flavored teas include Earl Grey, which is made of black tea and bergamot, and Jasmine, which is usually green tea and jasmine flowers. Other types of teas include Assam and Ceylon, which are black teas and Matcha and Sencha, which are green teas. These, of course, are just a few of the several varieties available on the market.

Herbal tea and tisane, on the other hand, happen to be one in the same but completely different than true teas from the tea plant. They originate from dried leaves, flowers or roots that are not from the Camellia sinensis plant. It seems almost any leaf or flower that is steeped in hot water is called tea;although in some countries the word tea is legally restricted to beverages that are made using the true tea plant.

Whether it is a true tea or an herbal tea most "teas" appear to have health benefits. Real teas, like oolong and green, have been included in more research studies and appear to offer the biggest health gain, although herbal teas have shown benefits too.

The herbal tea that seems to be showing the most studied benefit seems to be rooibos. It has a high level of antioxidants, somewhat similar to green tea, but because it isn't made with tea leaves it doesn't contain the caffeine. In recent studies rooibos, also known as red tea, has shown liver protecting abilities as well.

In my own personal experience I can almost always count on peppermint tea to soothe an upset stomach. I have a friend who always makes a mix of hibiscus, ginger and cinnamon to help her when she's not feeling well.

However I love the flavor of true teas, and all the reported health benefits provide compelling reasons to enjoy more of them. With all the varieties and different qualities available it's a lot of fun to explore and discover your favorites.

Aside from the question of tea or tisane you may also ask tea bag or loose leaf? Tea bags are great for convenience and the triangular tea bags are great for convenience with a little better flavor; but to truly enjoy the flavor a quality loose leaf tea is the best. The loose tea allows water to circulate around the leaves better to help draw out the flavor.

No matter your particular preference, the variety of teas makes it obvious how tea has become so popular across so many different cultures.

Regardless of your preference of tea, tisane or herbal tea, you'll find more to learn and love with our wulong tea site. This site will teach you everything you could possibly need to know about wulong tea for weight loss and more.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Heather_Doyle

Read More...

A number of research results have demonstrated that green tea has certain properties that are beneficial for preventing cancer. Places like Japan where tea is frequently used, show lower instances. Nevertheless, researchers have yet to claim with absolute certainty that tea can prevent cancer. Research hints however, that the antioxidant polyphenols contained in tea may be a significant tool in the fight. This article will discuss the link between tea and certain specific types of cancer.

There have not been many studies looking at the connection between the consumption of green tea and bladder cancer. One research project has determined that women who consumed tea decreased their chances of suffering from this disease. Subsequently, it was shown that men drinking tea benefited from a higher rate of survival over a period of five years.

Research carried out on animals has shown that polyphenols found in tea prevent the development of cells that cause breast cancer. Studies have demonstrated that in women drinking the greatest amounts of tea, breast cancer spread at the slowest rate. This was particularly prominent with early detection in women who had not yet reached menopause. Recurrences of wer also fewer in those who drank several cups of green tea on a daily basis. Similarly, it was found that women suffering from ovarian cancer that consumed tea daily lived longer than women who did not.

As regards colorectal cancer, the results have not been definitive. More studies are needed in order to determine whether tea can have beneficial effects.

The situation is similar with esophageal cancer. While research on animals has demonstrated positive results, with humans the results were less definitive. Some studies have even shown that green tea can lead to higher risk. This was especially true when the tea was drunk hot. Scientists must carry out more studies before suggesting green tea as a way of inhibiting this disease.

Conflicting results were also obtained for lung, prostate and stomach cancer. More research is needed to examine the link between tea consumption and these diseases.

Research reports studying the effects of green tea on skin and pancreatic cancer is cautiously more optimistic. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which is the principal polyphenol found in green tea, has been proven to have attributes that are capable of inhibiting the appearance and development of tumors on the skin. One study has shown that tea may be beneficial for preventing pancreatic cancer, but others have shown that there is no link between the popular herb and this particular disease.

Clearly, more work has to be done here. At the present time, there seems to be as much anecdotal evidence as hard facts to support or dismiss green tea as a possible tool in the battle against this disease. The benefits are very dependent on the particular strain in question. The good news is, that research is ongoing, and will continue until a cure or prevention is discovered.

The uses of green tea are really quite amazing. Drinking green tea benefits far outweigh any downsides I can think of.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Campbell

Read More...

The British have their afternoon tea around 5 p.m., but you can drink it anytime -- a cup alone, or with a snack like cookies, scones or muffins. Lots of Brits add milk to their tea. Milk in tea was a new idea to me, until a trip to England a few years ago. My British brother-in-law showed me how to make it.

First, choose a black tea made from leaves of the tea bush, Camellia sinensis, rather than an herbal tea, often made from leaves, blossoms, stems or berries of herb and spice plants.

Here are some good ones to start with:

* English Breakfast - hearty black tea blended to go with milk and sugar
* Irish Breakfast - similarly, a blend of black tea to drink with milk
* Earl Grey - a robust black tea blend, very popular. Good with lemon, too, instead of milk

Any of these can be drunk black as well as with milk.

To get started, you will need the tea, as well as a tea kettle, teapot, cup, milk and spoon. We keep our favorite mugs handy, and like to use the tall stoneware ones for tea, because they keep the drink warm a bit longer.

Start with cold water and bring to just boiling in the kettle. Pour a little of the hot water into the teapot and swirl it around to warm the china, then add the tea and the rest of the water.

Steep the tea according to directions on the package. We follow the instructions for a medium brew, so our tea is not too strong, and not too weak. We also like tea bags, instead of loose tea, for convenience. If you prefer loose tea, you will need a strainer or tea ball as well.

Never pour the hot water directly from the kettle into your teacup, as you risk cracking it.

If you plan to add milk, fill the cup only 2/3 full with freshly brewed tea. Then add milk until the tea turns a warm golden brown, about the color of the caramel candies you get in the fall to make Caramel Apples. Stir and enjoy!

Many commercial tea brands are available, such as Bigelow, Tetley's, Barry's or Lyon's. You can often obtain variety packs or samples to help you zero in on the blend and brand you like best.

We also found a "British blend" of Tetley's for sale in the US. If you want to try it, look for it in international food specialty shops.

And, we heard of a tea drink called a London Fog -- a mix of steamed milk, Earl Grey tea and vanilla syrup. That sounds good for an afternoon snack!

There's a huge world of tea to explore. There are thousands of types of tea, and lots of ways to use it as part of meals and entertaining. Start by learning to make a British-style cup of tea with milk, and who knows where it may lead. First a simple snack, then on to tea parties with the girls, even tea for a crowd, which will give you an excuse to use your large set of matching porcelain.

Meanwhile, a cup of tea in your own special mug will warm you from the inside out, on cool mornings or blustery days.

If you liked these suggestions, please visit our blog at http://diaryofadishie.com -- for more recipes and tips on how to use dinnerware, china and glassware for creative entertaining, along with ideas for table settings and interesting stories from our dish-hunting travels at Kimbesa's Closet.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sally_Kimbel

Read More...

Is Japanese organic green tea the best tea in the world? That might be a stretch but all in all it's a great tea that will help your health. There are a couple Japanese organic green tea's such as Tombo Tea - Sencha and Tombo Tea Genmai. One of the factors when considering organic green teas of any sort is finding out of they certified and actually organic and not just labeled organic.

Green tea has many benefits and just plain makes you feel good physically and mentally. I have been a fan of this type of tea all my life, it could be a coincidence but I never been to the doctor in my life, I guess a dentist won't count. My eyes are fine which could be genetics and I have no heart problems. I'm not saying that this kind of tea is the cure all but it certainly does help.

It is also said the Japanese on average live over eighty years old which is a very long life expectancy. They might be onto something drink great tea every day. I don't drink green every single day but I would say I drink it 5-6 times per week so nearly once a week. Instead of drinking soda with a meal I'll have green tea in place of soda. One of the better quotes I read regarding tea is "Better to be deprived of food for three days then tea for one." Some people would agree with that I think when it comes to Japanese organic green tea, put that on a bumper sticker.

Looking for Japanese Organic Green Tea? CLICK HERE

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=W._P._Allen

Read More...

For connoisseurs of English Tea, Williamson is a special name. Williamson is one of the only companies that grow, produce, market and sell tea.

The company has been growing and selling quality tea since 1869, when Captain James H Williamson, who was involved in the management of estates in India, met Richard B Magor, an assistant with the Great Eastern Hotel in Calcutta. Recently, the company changed its name from Williamson & Magor to Williamson Tea.

Today, the company grows solely in 4 farms in Kenya, Africa, in the areas of Changoi, Kapchorua, Kaimosi and Tinderet. Williamson's farms are set in the rolling hills of the Kenyan Highlands, which produce some of the worlds finest teas. With rain falling almost every afternoon, the climate is ideal for producing high-quality plants. Williamson farms are based in Nandi and Kericho districts of the country.

Committed to workers and the environment, Williamson is the world's only tea company to have all its farms Fairtrade and Rainforest Alliance accredited.

According to the company, England-native and Oscar winner Emma Thompson is devoted to Williamson. She told an English newspaper, "I always start my day in the same way. I am devoted to tea; it's something I've always loved ever since I was really quite little." Thompson then said, "I am absolutely fanatic about how my tea is made. I only use Williamson Tea, which has been running since 1869."

Williamson has a range of teas including Assam, Camomile, Darjeeling, Decaffeinated, Forest Berries, Green, Peppermint and White. The company consistently produces award-winning products. Recently, Williamson won 6 Gold Medals at the 2008 Great Taste Awards, from the Guild of Fine Foods.

However, the company is most regarded for its English Breakfast and Earl Grey teas. Williamson Earl Grey uses only the finest leaves scented with natural oil of bergamot (a citrus fruit), which produces an authentic and distinctive flavor.

An award-winner, Williamson Earl Grey won a 3-star award from the International Taste and Quality Institute, which consists of top professional chefs and sommeliers from all over Europe. Less than 8% of all products sampled obtained awards. Williamson English Breakfast gained a 2-star award from the same organization.

Paul Gerst is the founder of teadog.com, an Internet tea retailer. Teadog.com offers
Williamson Tea, Taylors of Harrogate, PG Tips Tea, Typhoo and other leading brands of English Tea. teadog.com also offers Irish Tea, Scottish Tea, Flavored Teas and more.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Gerst

Read More...

The Wulong tea for weight loss is a traditional Chinese tea which is somewhere between green and black tea and ranges from ten to seventy percent in oxidation. Polyphenol is a substance found in this tea which is believed to have a role in activating the enzymes in the body that breaks down body fat. Inside the molecule of polyphenols there are more than two phenol-based hydroxyl groups.

In Chinese, the word Wulong means "black dragon; several legends show the origin of this strange name. In one legend, the owner of a tea plantation scared away from his drying tea leaves by the appearance of a black snake; when he cautiously went back after a few days, the tea had been oxidized by the sun and gave and wonderful brew. Another tale tells a man named Wu Liang (later corrupted to Wu Long, Wulong) who found about WuLong tea accidentally when his attention was diverted by a deer after an exhausting day of picking tea, and he almost forgot about it that the tea had already started to oxidize. Others say that the tea is named "WuLong" because the leaves look like little black dragons that awaken when hot water is poured on them.

"Blue green teas," in Chinese customs are semi-oxidized Wulong teas that are merged in groups. Its taste is more close to Green tea than that of the black tea; it does not possess the rosy, sweet aroma of black tea, but, it does not have the bitter grassy vegetal quality that distinguishes Green tea. The best Wulong has a nuance flavor profile. It is commonly brewed to become strong, with the bitterness leaving a sweet and pleasant taste on the tongue.

There are several customary mixes of Wulong that marries the wonderful outcome of Wuyi Wulong tea with other Wulong teas from the province of Anxi (which is also known for its strong Wulong and its delicate flavor) also some Formosa Wulongs which are delicious and globally recognized! Each tea is unique in flavor but good for health. It wards off hunger, burns calories and excess fat resulting to weight loss. It lessens signs of aging, boosts energy, fortifies teeth, lessens hair fall, improves immune system, lessens eczema and may treat Type 2 diabetes as well.

Wulongs created in the Wuyi Mountains in the province of Fujian in China and in Taiwan Central Mountains are famous in the world. They are commonly processed and rolled into elongated coiled leaves or into a ball-like form to gunpowder tea. In Chinese restaurants, it is usually offered to go with dimsum and other Chinese food.

Get a free trial of premium Weight Loss Tea by clicking here

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pat_Gustafson

Pat Gustafson - EzineArticles Expert Author

Read More...

The Gevalia Green Teas are known to be the "emeralds of the Orient" because of its uniquely smooth and delicate flavor. No other tea could equal the quality, which is complemented by its natural refreshing characteristics aside from being delicious in its own way.

Furthermore, these teas are not just for soothing the taste; they are also good source of antioxidants. These are the properties that the body needs to process and eliminate toxins. In fact, green tea is prized so high in the West because medical studies have proved that their high level can have a positive impact on the human body. And Gevalia is very careful not to destroy these properties with its green tea products.

Therefore, not like black teas, the leaves which are used to produce green tea are not allowed to oxidize. This preserves the pale green color, the distinctive flavor and the natural antioxidant properties. Gevalia always makes sure that the processing of this tea is all natural and no other substances are added. This delicate procedure preserves freshness and does not alter unique properties.

Gevalia handpicks their tea leaves from the finest tea bushes. The leaves are carefully carried using woven twine carriers to preserve the delicacy and its green color. After weighing, the leaves are then taken to the factory for drying; no time is wasted because the longer the leaves stay under direct sunlight, the natural properties will be lost. It is because of these details that Gevalia Green Teas are the number one green teas all over the world in all aspects.

Dave is an avid coffee drinker who enjoys his monthly delivery of Gevalia Coffee. Learn more about Gevalia Coffee, Gevalia Tea and the Gevalia Coffee Club at GevaliaCoffeeClub.net.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_L._Felts

Read More...

For most Americans, High Tea invokes images of a very formal occasion in the late afternoon. Hot tea being poured from an exquisite silver teapot into dainty china cups. Finger sandwiches and lavish desserts served from a 3-tiered platter.

Nothing could be more quintessentially English than High Tea. Just ask a Yank, right? Au contraire! Just ask a Brit. High Tea is nothing of the sort. In England High Tea has always been associated with members of the lower classes, not the elite.

In 1838 "a tempest in a teapot" came into use as an idiom indicating a major fuss over a trivial matter. Some might find this expression apropos when applied to what Yanks and Brits consider High Tea. Lest the topic becomes a source of contention between two allies, a lesson in history would be in order.

The truth is that High Tea (both the name and the time served) has nothing to do with grandeur, status, or formality. In fact, those descriptions would more aptly depict afternoon, or Low Tea (more to come on that later). The difference in the names given each was quite simple. One was a full evening meal taken on a table in the dining room. This table was much higher than the low table on which afternoon tea was served in the sitting room, or parlor. In the following paragraphs, a look back at history will illustrate other distinctions between High Tea and Low Tea.

In the England of yore before the "dawn" of artificial lighting, most people went to bed early in keeping with their biological clocks. During this period two main meals were prepared. The first was early in the morning to break the long fast. Hence, it came to be known as breakfast. The other main meal prepared at the noon hour was called dinner. After their dinner meal, the poor, working class pocketed leftover cheese and bread scraps. Naturally they returned home rather hungry by the end of the day. Unable to afford otherwise, these scraps became their final meal of the day.

As English social order progressed during the time of the Industrial Revolution, a middle class emerged. Along with it, High Tea evolved from its modest beginnings of table scraps. Foods such as cheese, eggs, potatoes, and meat began to appear on the working man's dining table. Traditional steak and kidney pie or a Shepherd's pie might have been served at High Tea. This hearty, early evening fare also became known as "Meat Tea."

A change in meal times also came about for the upper classes. When kerosene oil came to Europe in the early 1800's, poor lighting was no longer a reason for those of the leisure class to retire to bed early. The later they stayed up at night, the later they slept in the next morning. This change in the time breakfast was served inevitably led to other changes.

The preparation of a large dinner at noon was no longer required, so the meal became skimpier. The most substantial meal of the day was not served until as late as nine in the evening. The time lapse between the two was quite long. Suddenly "jolly ole England" wasn't so jolly anymore. In fact, by the time four o'clock rolled around, one of the ladies in Queen Victoria's inner circle began to feel quite faint! With that Anna, Duchess of Bedford, took matters into her own hands. History now credits the Duchess with introducing afternoon tea to the high society of her day in the early 1840's. It became her habit to invite friends over in the mid-afternoons for tea with butter and bread. Guests were served on low tea tables placed by the sofas and chairs in the sitting room.

Afternoon tea, or Low Tea, became a social occasion. As the trend caught on, each hostess tried to outdo the next. Polite conversations were carried on around tables covered in fine linens. Bone china, a silver tea service, and cake plates on tall pedestals were must-haves. The "tea party" fare expanded to include dainty sandwiches and pastries which were eaten with three fingers. This necessitated the rinsing of one's fingers. Bowls of water containing lemon peels or flower petals were placed on the low tables for one's guests.

By the early 1880's, Britain's aristocracy were not the only ones serving Low Tea. Ladies of leisure all across Great Britain began to have 'At Home' teas. Eventually tea shops became fashionable, as well. The latter would eventually lead to the formal afternoon tea which Americans mistakenly think of as High Tea.

In a teacup, Low Tea was created by a member of the upper class and was a high-class affair. High Tea owes its beginnings to the lower class.

Linda Coffey, contrary to her name, is a tea expert and regular contributor to the premier tea information site http://hottesttea.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Linda_Coffey

Read More...

Maybe some of you are reading about chai tea for the first time. We'll approach the subject as if you were learning the steps to a Latin dance, the cha cha. The first thing an instructor might do is explain how the dance got its name. In the following paragraphs, I will do the same with this increasingly popular drink called chai tea.

Interestingly, chai tea is actually a tautological expression. Simply put, both tea and chai are exactly the same word, only spelled as written in different languages. To differentiate from other types of teas, we will use the term, chai tea, to mean a tea made with four ingredients. Essentially, those are tea, milk, and spices sweetened with either sugar or honey.

What we in the West call chai tea, those in the East call Masala chai. This beverage is extremely popular in southern Asia. In India it is sold in cafés and by street vendors called chai wallahs. These merchants even take their hot tea pots to businesses daily in late morning or mid-afternoon. Along with selling their beverage, chai wallahs also pass along the latest news and gossip.

Now that we know how the "dance" got its name, let's learn some of the steps. Strong black tea is most commonly used in India to make Masala Chai. It is customarily brewed with tea leaves boiled rather than steeped. Westerners have changed some of the "dance" steps. More typically, here chai tea is made from a spice mix.

In India this spice mix is called chai Masala, as opposed to the drink, Masala chai. In learning to cha cha, some of the dance steps may be confusing to learn. In a similar way, the different names and components used to create a chai tea beverage have caused confusion to some.

Okay, now you know how this "dance" got its name and have learned the steps. Now it's time to dance the cha cha and drink the chai. We're guessing no one has seen a chai wallah selling tea in this country, at least not yet. Instead of stopping by a chai stall for news and gossip, we meet friends at coffee shops to visit and chat.

Americans purchase chai teas in places like Barnie's Coffee & Tea Company, Seattle's Best Coffee, or Caribou Coffee Company. At your neighborhood Starbucks, you may even purchase an iced chai- based drink. This version of their popular Frappuccino drink is made with a coffee-free cream and chai tea concentrate.

You may be wondering about the health benefits of dancing, or as we use the term in this case, of drinking the chai. Masala chai as prepared with strong black tea in the East may have an amount of caffeine equivalent to that in coffee. Perhaps for that reason green chai tea has been marketed as a healthier alternative to drinking coffee.

Chai latte, or chai tea latte, sold in coffee houses is a steamed milk beverage made using a spiced tea mix or concentrated liquid rather than espresso. This allows you to have that second cup of chai without the guilt or the crash that goes with having that extra caffeine in coffee. On the flip side, chai tea drinks sold in many of these establishments may not have the health benefits that come with Masala chai. If the chai tea is not mixed fresh each day, it will not be as potent. Also, as the tea is brewed in southern Asia and India, whole spices are used. For hundreds of years in those cultures a variety of spices have been used to treat or relieve medical symptoms.

Well, dance class is over for today. The instructor has a final note about the drinking of chai tea. Studies about all the possible benefits of chai tea are still open to debate. Most agree, however, that the choice to drink tea is by and large a beneficial one. As is true with dancing the cha cha, one is more likely to reap those benefits by preparing the drink oneself as from watching it from the sidelines.

Now, go enjoy life as you dance the cha cha and drink the chai chai.

Linda Coffey, contrary to her name, is a tea expert and regular contributor to the premier tea information site http://hottesttea.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Linda_Coffey

Read More...

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. You just have to look...

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 centrepiece 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 a 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 or just on their own - they're scrumptious.

This is one of the many reasons you can make a spectacular afternoon tea with little effort!

Here's the secret to finding how to make a spectacular afternoon tea. Even more resources at http://best-tea-talk.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sandra_Fierling

Read More...

Those who never heard of organic Yerba Mate tea should look into it. This delicious beverage is an exceptional tea because it promotes mental alertness. How it is produced is by shade growing it, hand picked, wood dried and cedar aged. Since the beverage is organic no harmful pesticides and fertilizers are used during the production process, which makes the tea tastes even better.

Many of us drink coffee in the morning because we need the energy from the caffeine to start the day. Yerba Mate tea may be the solution to an alternative to the typical cup of coffee in the morning. I know when I wake up in the morning I can't begin the day without some sort of boost. I started drinking this delicious beverage and it does give you energy to be productive throughout the day with no crash later. I wasn't ever a tea drinker until someone introduced me to the tea and I'm glad they did because I feel more healthy overall.

Since this comes in a variety of flavors you should find something you will enjoy. When looking for your tea be sure you are getting it from a certified company to ensure your tea is organic. I still drink coffee sometimes but it has take a back seat ever since I started drinking the Yerba Mate tea. I would recommend everyone at least give it a try because you might like it, plus it's good for your health. Organic Yerba Mate tea is something I wish I knew about sooner.

Looking for Organic Yerba Mate Tea? click here

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=W._P._Allen

Read More...

Being fat can mean that you are interested in losing weight. Weight-loss products sell like hot cakes even with the ones whose claims are ridiculous. One product that has been discovered to be an effective weight loss product is the natural green tea. It is guaranteed to make you lose pounds of fat.

Green tea contains caffeine. Caffeine can boost up the metabolic rate of a person. What makes the caffeine in green tea unique is that it does not raise the heart rate and the blood pressure, unlike that of coffee. Caffeine-sensitive people need not worry about side effects.

Green tea contains antioxidants. The antioxidants in it tea make it an even more potent substance for weight loss. The polyphenols in green tea offers many health benefits, and one of these is combating free radicals that cause cell damage. They also work with the other chemicals in the body to increase fat oxidation and thermogenesis, thus promoting fat burning in the body. It is also helpful in decreasing the production of leptin in the body. Leptin is a kind of protein hormone which is responsible for regulating our appetite and fat storage. A lower level of leptin means that you will have a weaker appetite. Overweight people often have a high level of leptin which is the reason why they eat more than what's necessary. A lower leptin level will mean you are more likely to eat less.

Many studies support the claims above. But take into account that taking green tea alone is not enough. You must make some major changes in the way you eat. Combining a healthy diet and a fitness regimen with green tea will assure you that you will lose pounds.

Now you want to have more energy, be Healthier, look Younger, lose weight, and cleanse your body, right?

Do this with Oprah's Dynamic Duo of Acai Berry & Colon Cleanse by Clicking Here Now!

Acai Berry is the #1 "Super Food" because it has so many different elements that help your body, so you can't go wrong with Acai Berries & Colon Cleansing.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Faviano_Torres

Read More...

Tea herbs are used to infuse loose leaf tea, or brew up some herbal tea. Typically herbal teas are made for one of their medicinal attributes making them medicinal tea.

There are many recipes for different herbal teas on the internet today. What is more difficult to find is a great supplier of herbs once you have begun to make your own blends.

You can shop at your local health food store, or bulk bins at the grocer but I find these herbs to be somewhat stale, never mind that they are not organic.

Here are the top things we look for when buying herbs for herbal tea blending:

1.) Is the herb Certified Organic?
2.) Are different quantities of the herb available?
3.) Do I get a discount for ordering in bulk?
4.) What are your shipping rates?
5.) How long for my tea herbs to arrive?

These are our top 5 questions and we have found a couple of suppliers that have been able to meet our criteria, however none of them turned out to be the local health food store!

So if you are looking to make the best herbal tea you can our advice to you is to do your research. There are some pretty shotty suppliers of herbs out there. One product we had purchased was over 50% filler.... needless to say we asked for a refund.

Remember to store your herbs in a sealed container in a dark place. Sunlight and moisture will destroy the integrity and medicinal properties of your herbs.

I often create a variety of blends and store them all together in a ziploc bag in a tea tin by herbal tea type. This way I am always ready to steep what ever type of tea I am after.

I hope these 5 tips help you to find a great supplier of herbal tea ingredients that will deliver you organic herbs in any quantity you are after.

For more information about buying tea herbs and herbal tea ingredients, visit Teya's website Crazy For Tea. You will find 100's of herbs listed and recipes for each of them to make your own herbal Tea.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Teya_Zary

Read More...

Dr Oz's recommendations for weight loss and body detox have received much attention. Many people have been able to lose weight and flush toxins with Dr Oz Green Tea . He says that green tea is an effective way to detoxify and cleanse your body, especially if you are looking forward to losing flab.

Dr Oz Green Tea has numerous properties that flush the toxic buildup and in turn speeds up the metabolic rate. A rise in metabolic rate is a boon for weight loss as it burns fats piled under thighs and belly

The properties of green tea that are beneficial are as follow:

· It contains a high quantity of Polyphenol, which help weight loss by removing the toxins in the body.

· Polyphenol stimulates the production of those enzymes in the body that help to dissolve triglycerides that are deposited as fat.

· It is very high in antioxidants. These antioxidants flush toxins from the body and fight free radicals in the cells. Free radicals cause damage to the body as they cause cells to age, reduce their efficiency and slow down natural body process.

· Antioxidants are abundantly present in green tea. They help to not just fight free radicals in fact they also repair the damage done to cells by these free radicals.

· These antioxidants thus revive the efficiency of the various functions of the body, and also revive the metabolism. Thus weight loss is speeded, leading to faster burning of the fat deposited on the body.

· These anti oxidants also block carbs, and reverse the effects of aging on the body.

The use of green tea is recommended by Dr Oz as a great supplement for those on a weight loss program. It has a detoxifying effect, and it speeds up the body's ability to burn the fat thus it facilitates speedy weight loss without any side effects. At the same time, it is only an aid to a proper weight loss management program, that should have a diet control and exercise regime. Green tea would not show significant results without dieting and exercise.

Rachel & Oprah is getting slimmer and healthier, Now its your turn to get the Dynamic Duo!

To know more Click Here --> Acai & Colon Cleanse Diet

Get additional information or to request for Free Samples

Click here ---> http://www.RachelRayDiets.com/Free_Trial

FREE offers are for a limited time only, so get yours today.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Britney_Myers

Read More...