Wu Long Green Tea or Oolong Tea is the traditional Chinese tea which has immense health enhancing properties. Wu Long Diet Tea is full of anti oxidants which very effectively strengthens your immune system and detoxifies your body to a great extent. So, if you wish to get in shape, look radiant and young and at the same time get more energetic than ever, do make it point to have Wu long green tea at least twice a day.

Another special property of the Wu long diet tea is its slimming property. The Weight loss tea or Wu Long Diet tea are the same, as Wu Long green tea makes the body absorb less fat while it can also burn the accumulated body fat into energy which undoubtedly makes you feel immensely energetic all day long. This weight loss tea especially works wonders around at the mid riff section of the body where most of the body fat has a tendency to get accumulated. With progressing age or due to body constrains, certain people find it difficult to engage in heavy physical exercises in order to obtain the ideal body weight, for them having Wu Long diet tea is probably the best solution to lose weight and get back in shape.

You can always opt for Wu Long slimming programs which are tailor made to suit your requirements. Accordingly, you can opt for a combination of tea bags and tea capsules which you are required to take say within a span of 60 days or 240 days or even 480 days according to number of pounds or kilos you wish to shed. You are required to consume 1 or 2 cups of Wu long green tea and take 1 or 2 tea capsules per day. If you are on weight loss programme, you may be required to take 2 cups of tea along with 2 weight loss tea capsules while those on a maintenance schedule can easily opt for having 1 cup of tea and tea capsule daily.

Wu Long EGCG capsules are made out of all natural Wu Long diet tea which contain Polyphenol, the active ingredient which is works in burning off the extra fat and increase the metabolic rate of your body too. A Wu Long EGCG capsules contain 30 grams of tea leaves while a single capsule can be mixed in 300 – 600 ml cold water, add in the sugar as per your taste and enjoy the drink.

Simply forget the other slimming programmes and schedules which have a strict diet regime and exercise pattern, Switch over to Wu Long Diet Tea, relax and enjoy your normal lifestyle. Let the Wu Long Diet Tea works detoxify, oxidize and work upon your body making you look in shape, young, radiant and glowing more than ever.

For more information visit here - http://www.jingteahc.com



Written by Prad Sherwood
Article source: Articlesbase.com
Nowhere is that choice more prevalent than in what we drink and one beverage that many people consume on a daily basis is tea. The variety that many of us are now drinking for it's health benefiting reasons, is green tea. But, more specifically when you begin to look at that particular market segment, what some of us may be asking themselves is green tea decaffeinated?

Well, maybe the direct answer is no it's not. Just like ordinary tea has a decaffeinated option so has green tea. It's certainly grown in popularity due to a number of reasons. One of which is its use as a dietary supplement for people who follow a weight loss or weight control regimen.

Where it becomes a bit more controversial or perhaps we should call it a bit of a grey area, is in how effective the normal and decaffeinated green teas are at delivering these often stated health benefits. Some respected studies and reports do indicate that there are noticeable differences in the amount of antioxidants between the two.

It's these potent antioxidants that are attributed to many of the claims about green tea being such an effective and protective tool for a myriad of conditions and maladies. So, what they found out was that there is a lower amount of these substances in the decaffeinated green tea varieties. How that actually happens is due to the way that manufacturers treat the tea and remove the caffeine.

But, should that be of any concern to those of us who drink it? Well it's nice to know but no, not really, as any shortfall in these antioxidants can simply be solved by drinking more of the decaffeinated green tea.

Written by Peter Foremski
Article source: Articlesbase.com
On your next trip to a Chinese restaurant, see if you’ll be served a deep, dark brownish red tea with a fascinatingly earthy yet mellow taste.  Chances are, this is the famed and highly-valued pu-erh tea that many of the finest Chinese eateries serve their clients after a hearty meal.

Pu-erh tea is widely used as an after-meal beverage due to its famed ability to break fat, lower bad cholesterol and blood pressure levels, and thus contribute to smooth digestion.

Pu-erh tea is considered among the oldest and most valuable types of tea in China.   Pu-erh tea is derived from the large leaf variety of the camellia sinensis plant from where green tea, black tea and oolong tea are also obtained.  During the golden era of the ancient Chinese Empire, pu-erh tea was given as a tribute to the Emperor.  It was also used as medium of exchange for trading goods.

Pu-erh tea is quite distinctive from other tea varieties as it is usually obtained in a compressed state instead of the usual loose leaf state.  The tea leaves are pressed together during processing into different shapes but mostly ball or brick shaped.  The resultant ‘tea bricks’ are then aged for some time, and sold to customers.  When making a pot of tea, a small portion of the brick is detached and placed in newly-boiled water for steeping.

Its name "pu-erh" is derived from the Pu-erh county in the Yunnan province of southwestern China where the tea is produced.  The tea is grown in elevations of up to 2,000 meters as its cultivation is enhanced by cool and pure air and fertile lands.

Pu-erh tea, when taken on a consistent basis, is widely thought to aid in reducing bad cholesterol levels and regulating high blood pressure.  This in turn, plays a vital role in staving off heart disease and stroke.  This is because the tea is believed to be effective in breaking down the oily and fatty content of food, thus facilitating the digestive process and speeding up metabolism.  It also helps in ‘melting’ and clearing out the toxins that line the intestines and the stomach.

Pu-erh tea is likewise believed to be imbued with potently strong qi or the body’s life energy that contributes in boosting the flow of blood and overall circulation. This can help cure minor aches and pains.

So the next time you partake of a tasty and sumptuous meal that’s laden with fat and oils, remember to close the meal with a nice hot cup of flavorful pu-erh tea.  Aside from being pleasant-tasting, you will benefit from its ability to gently help digest the meal, thus leaving you feeling refreshed and healthy.

Written by Edwin Bartolome
Article source: Articlesbase.com
Have you ever wondered why green tea has become so popular nowadays? In fact, it is highly noticeable since it now comes in different packages. Before, tea preparation used to be in tea bags or loose leaf. Now, it comes in cold ready-to-drink beverages. Do you know why people usually grab a cold bottle of green tea? This is actually due to the immense health benefits you can get from drinking green tea.

People drink green tea to help the body get rid of free radicals. These free radicals are harmful to the body. They actually cause the body to become prone to cancer. DNA is also damaged because of the presence of these free radicals in the body. By drinking green tea, your body becomes more resistant to free radicals which are commonly found in the surroundings.

When these free radicals accumulate in your body, you are actually hastening your aging process. Old people are usually more prone to heart problems and cancer. However, because of the overwhelming presence of free radicals in the environment and the bad habits of people such as smoking and alcohol consumption, young people are aging faster than the tick of the clock!

Studies have shown that these free radicals in the body can be countered by antioxidants. These substances help reduce the risk of cancer and protect the heart. If you ensure that your everyday diet consists of foods rich in antioxidants such as green tea, then your aging process would surely be reduced by a substantial percentage. This is one green tea health benefit that you should know about.

Green tea health benefits do not only constitute reducing

the risk of cancer as well as heart problems but it also helps in rheumatoid arthritis, high cholesterol levels, infection, an impaired immune function, as well as burning more fat in the body. By taking green tea, you just don’t get healthy, you get slimmer as well.

Now that you know about the wonderful health benefits of green tea, you should try it out yourself. You may not see any difference overnight, but with patience, you will reap the long term benefits of green tea.

Written by Tamar Slay
Article source: Articlesbase.com
Recently, Japanese scientists found that Rooibos tea is an enzyme containing peroxide dismutase (SOD), an antioxidant, which mimic the attack of free radicals and limit their adverse consequences.

Rooibos helps stomach ulcers, nausea, constipation and heartburn.

A cup of Rooibos tea before going to sleep a good night's rest! Rooibos has been found to help insomnia, sleep disorders and headaches. It contains no caffeine and has a relaxing effect on the central nervous system.

Rooibos helps you strong bones and teeth, the calcium, manganese and fluoride.

Rooibos helps peace infants with colic, stomach cramps and sleeping problems. Simply mix some Rooibos tea with milk or formula. It is 100% natural with no coloring or preservatives. It is a wonderful mother.

Rooibos contains alpha hydroxy acid and zinc for healthy skin and smooth. This wonder tea is especially useful if the skin irritation such as itching, eczema, sunburn, diaper rash and acne.

Place waste Rooibos tea bags in the refrigerator or freezer. Eyes tired after a long day, or red to soothe and relax doing.

Rooibos contains magnesium which is essential for a healthy nervous.

Rooibos increases the absorption of iron in the body.

Rooibos contains potassium and copper minerals necessary for metabolic functions.

Rooibos is often prescribed for anxiety and mild depression that makes a relaxing sedative.

Rooibos contains no oxalic acid and can therefore be appreciated by those suffering from kidney stones.

Rooibos helps to control your appetite can be beneficial in weight loss.

Rooibos helps you recover after a hangover again.

Rooibos is a great thirst-quenching drink and sports. Because the content of the mineral iron, potassium, zinc, magnesium, sodium, restores the balance of the body after strenuous exercise.

Rooibos is very versatile! It could be drinking hot or cold, with or without milk, sugar or honey, lemon juice or mixed with fruit juice for a nice blend. Rooibos Tea is also used in cooking and baking. It replaces the liquid content in recipes for soups, marinades, sauces, stews and cakes for added flavor and nutrition.

And Rooibos tastes divine! It is less than most bitter teas.

Written by LWDG
Article source: Articlesbase.com
Black tea is one of the most common types of tea available on the market, but that simply does not take away from its healthful qualities. Black loose tea can be used to reduce the risk of stroke, decrease coronary heart disease risks and even helps the digestive tract when drank due to its anti-inflammatory effects.

Not only does this help with upset stomach, but it helps to keep concentration high and sharpens mental acuity and focus. Even with all these health related facts, the one fact that remains the number one reason for tea drinkers choosing this tea is the taste. There are many varieties of black loose tea such as Summer Kiss, Ambrosia, Black Currant Organic and Black Night among many others.

Black loose tea can be brewed as easily as bagged tea, and normally has more flavor than bagged teas. Brewing loose teas can be as fun as tasting the many varieties of sensual and colorful teas.

Summer Kiss black loose tea is an organic tea that blends flowery accents with organically grown black tea. A very unique taste that is a mix of sweet and tart, this blend offers red rosebud, purple mountain rose hips and hibiscus for flavor.

Ambrosia includes safflower, a flowery orange pekoe, berry plants and red safflower petals to this summer-time tea. The safflower is a great source of oils that have been medicinally used for centuries to help women keep a regular period as well as keep the skin healthy and vibrant. Sweet marjoram and hibiscus round out this all over exhilarating tea flavor.

Black Currant tea offers orange pekoe black tea with black currants and leaves for an iron packed healthy drink including potassium. Natural sweetness from the currants gives an unforgettable fruity taste to this exotic dark tea.

Black night tea is very robust, with a hint of a sweet taste. There is a strong aroma and flavor associated with this tea that helps it to be recognized when among many other teas. Black loose tea incorporated with high levels of anti-oxidants and caffeine, this tea will hold its strong flavor for years due to the oxidization of the leaves. This is a great tea to start your Monday morning when you really need a jolt to get going.

Darjeeling tea is another variety of black loose tea. This tea offers a light apricot color when brewed, and has a smooth and subtle floral flavor with the spiciness that Darjeeling is known for. This is considered the ‘champagne’ of teas and is widely used for afternoon drinking, as an accent for many meat containing meals.

Earl Grey is another black loose tea that is very popular. Made of full dark leaves of the orange pekoe, this tea offers a touch of indigo coloring from cornflower petals. Earl Grey offers a bergamot fruity and slightly sweet flavor, and is considered a breakfast classic.

Passion Fruit Gold is a black loose tea that offers a warm touch to all black tea blends. The dark tea offers a very full flavor that is unmatched in any other variety. The natural sweetness of black tea with calendula blossoms offers this tea the unmistakable taste that is perfect for any time of year.

Black loose teas are known worldwide for being the most popular teas. Once the health benefits are seen and the taste is experienced, it is no wonder that black loose teas are as widely consumed as they are.

To Buy or Try a Sample Please Go To - http://www.redleaftea.com/
 
Written by Sam Leo 
Article Source: Articlesbase.com
Green tea is a domain, under which you get a number of sub groups. The variants of green tea have different names and the usage and properties also differ from each other, though fundamentally they are the same. Apart from Chinese tea, there are other countries which produce green tea. Japan is the second biggest producer of green tea in the world. Japanese green tea also comes in many varieties, which are unique in taste and means, by which they are produced.

The gradation of tea is done based on the quality and the different parts of the plant that are used to make the tea. The prices vary due to these simple reasons of packaging and cutting. The finer leaves will force you to cough up more bucks for your tea, compared to the coarser ones.

   1. The Yame region of Japan produces the finest quality of green tea, which is available in the market. It is expensive and finer than the rest of the variants.

   2. Bancha or the common tea is the most widely cultivated variant of green tea. It is harvested from the summer to the autumn months. The entire leaf is not used, but only a few unnecessary twigs are used to make the tea.

   3. Genmaicha or brown rice tea is another variant of green tea. It is a mixture of brown rice and tea, along with artificial coloration. With the use of certain herbs, the overall appearance of the tea leaves is improved.

   4. Gyokuro is the finest quality of green tea and the finesse is achieved due to the manner of cultivation. The color is ale green and the caffeine content is also pretty high in this variant of green tea.

   5. Roasted tea is made by roasting the leaves over a charcoal oven. This process imparts a special taste to the tea once the infusion is prepared from it.

   6. Covered tea is cultivated in the shade and contact with direct sunlight is prevented in order to protect the leaves. They are generally delicate in nature and cannot withstand climatic extremes.

   7. Japanese tea is characteristically bitter in taste and most of the variants of Japanese green tea are bitter to taste. There are exceptions to this too like the pan fired tea which is not bitter due to the brewing process.

Apart from these there is the rubbed green tea and the roasted barley tea which are unique in its own way.

Written by Mandy Malone
Article source: Articlesbase.com
All teas contain a high level of antioxidants; however white tea antioxidants are higher than in other types of teas. The high antioxidant level in the tea is caused by sunlight. Green plants get energy to grow from sunlight and chlorophyll, but sunlight can also be damaging to them. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can be especially harmful to plants and antioxidants basically help protect plants from this possible damage.

Where do antioxidants come from? Living cells of plants can be destroyed as the plants are trying to protect themselves from the harmful sunlight rays. Free radicals are created in leaf cells by the UV radiation in direct sunlight. Animals are born with advanced immune systems that protect them from these free radicals, but plants are not. Plants instead produce chemicals (called phytonutrients) to protect themselves, antioxidants being the most important ones.

There is more to the process of antioxidant activity, such as searching for free radicals (chemicals created by sunlight hitting the plant leaves). The antioxidants attack the free radical cells and may kill them, causing the plants to age and sometimes catch diseases. Free radical activity is limited by the antioxidants. Since antioxidants are present in high amounts in white tea plants, it takes a lot of balance to keep the plants alive as this battle is ongoing.

There are many antioxidants contain in this tea, most from the catechin family, including epicatechin, epicatechin gallate and epigallocatechin. EGCG, or epigallocatechin gallate, is the most prominent antioxidant. Nearly half of the antioxidant is comprised of EGCG and it is a very potent ingredient. Laboratory tests have determined that EGCG is able to be 100 times more active than vitamins A & C. A cup of white tea is believed to have more antioxidants in it than a serving of broccoli, spinach, strawberries and other healthy vegetables and fruits. This is a perfect example of white tea antioxidants at work.

White tea antioxidants are mostly present in strong quantities because of the EGCG contained in it. EGCG has been proven to reduce several health ailments and diseases such as skin, lung and breast cancers. It also reduces the risk of serious conditions such as stroke, heart disease and diabetes. EGCG can also slow the aging process, prolonging youthfulness and health in the consumer.

White tea is the least processed of all teas so during the harvesting process the healthy antioxidants remain in stronger quantities than in other types of teas. The leaves are comprised of more than 30 percent of healthy antioxidants.
 
The antioxidants present in white tea help fight off many diseases and conditions, making it one of the healthiest teas to consume. Its preventative qualities are just an added benefit to this delicious choice of beverage. White tea antioxidants are important to maintain good health and reducing health risks.

For more information on white tea or for other information on tea tips, please go to Tea Gift Baskets website.

Written by David Sutikno
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Red Leaf teas are known to significantly slow the aging process as well as treat allergies. This great tea is known to help those prone to kidney stones, and is completely caffeine free. Named Rooibos, red leaf teas are called such for the red tinge to the leaves. Many varieties include Chocolate Chai, Peach Rooibos, Rooibos Bourbon and Green Rooibos.

Chocolate Chai is a red leaf tea that offers a tangy ginger flavor with cardamom citrus added in. A mild sweetness and spicy warmth that is associated with all chai teas, as well as the dark chocolate chips added into the tea makes this blend unforgettable. This dessert tea is great for after dinner or in the morning to start your day, and the antioxidants that chocolate adds to the natural health benefits of red leaf tea makes this an immune system booster.

Peach Rooibos red leaf tea offers red tea leaves and bits of peach with other fruit
bits to enhance the health boosting properties of red tea. Growth of this tea is restricted to a small area inside the Cederberg area of Western Cape, and is never fermented or oxidized so all the health benefits are contained for your pleasure.

Rooibos Bourbon red leaf teas appear much the same as Peach Rooibos, but gets the name from the Bourbon Islands in the Indian Ocean. The smooth red rooibos tea with a hint of vanilla makes this tea an ideal breakfast beverage. With bits of vanilla bean and a ruby colored brew, this tea is a drink you will love to share.

Green Rooibos red leaf tea is considered such even though the fermentation ends after the cutting of the leaf. An earthy flavor and being caffeine free makes this drink great any time of day. Not only does the rooibos offer a full body and great aroma, but this variation is considered quite enjoyable hot or cold.

Red leaf tea or rooibos teas are normally drank with no additives in most of the world; it is combined with milk and sugar in South Africa. With a sweet flavor and slight nutty undertones, the flavor alone is unforgettable. The red-brown color that gives this tea its name is granted from the preparation of the tea. The longer the red leaf tea is brewed, the better the taste.

Health conscious drinkers enjoy the high antioxidant levels that red leaf teas contain, as well as the lack of caffeine. When first mentioned in 1772 by Carl Thunberg, the Khosian people had already been using this for its medicinal properties.

The cultivation of the red leaf tea seeds was perfected by Dr. Peter Nortier, a Rhodes scholar. Since the seeds were originally hard to find and grow, Dr. Nortier paid local farmers for their seeds and encouraged these farmers to begin cultivating the plant as a cash crop for the Klein Kliphuis farm. The most expensive seed in the world market was then born, and is enjoyed today around the world for an average cost.

To Buy or Try a Sample Please Go To - http://www.redleaftea.com/

Written by Sam Leo 
Article Source: Articlesbase.com
Rooibos tea is a tea made from the leaves of the rooibos bush, a plant that can only be found in a small region of South Africa. It is referred to by several different names including bush tea, red bush tea, red tea or South African red tea. The tea has long been favored by South Africans for its health benefits, but is becoming increasingly popular with health-conscious consumers throughout the world.

The health benefits of drinking rooibos tea is primarily due to its high level of antioxidants including aspalathin. Vitamin C, magnesium, manganese, and calcium are some of the other beneficial nutrients found in rooibos. Here are some of the conditions that rooibos has been shown to alleviate or assist with.

Digestive Problems
South Africans have long used rooibos tea to provide relief from and assist with the treatment of various digestive problems. Some of these problems that rooibos tea has been commonly used to treat include heartburn, nausea, indigestion, and stomach ulcers.

Cancer Prevention
Many health experts agree that rooibos does act as an anticarcinogen to a number of different types of cancer cells. Studies have shown that the flavonoids contained in rooibos have chemopreventive and antimutagenic properties which have been shown to significantly reduce the potential onset of cancer.

Anti-Aging
It is fairly well-known that antioxidants play a significant role in protecting the body from the damage free radicals can cause. Since rooibos is so rich in antioxidants, it naturally helps to reduce the damaging effect aging has on the cells in our bodies. As a result, rooibos has the ability to help slow the aging process down.

Skin Conditions
Because of the alpha-hydroxy acid found in rooibos, it can be used externally to promote healthy skin and alleviate skin problems. It has been found effective in treating and providing relief from eczema, sunburn, rashes, and itches. Drinking the tea has also been shown to alleviate allergies and asthma.

These are just a few of the conditions rooibos tea has been used to treat. Stress, heart disease, headaches, and insomnia are a few more. Rooibos tea can be served as an iced tea or a hot beverage. While sugar and milk are commonly added, many people will find the tea to be naturally smooth and lacking the bitterness that many black and green teas have. Either way, rooibos tea is a great choice for any health-conscious tea lover.

Kelly is a serious tea fanatic and has a new website on the benefits of using a stainless steel electric kettle. For the latest reviews, tips, and deals on all types of stainless steel tea kettles, visit her site today.

Written by Kelly Ralston
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
History of Mint

Mint is an ancient herb and the use of mint tea dates back to medieval Europe. Mint's distinct smell has made it one of the more popular herbs throughout history. From Europe to India to the Middle East, it has been used to clear the air. In ancient Greece, mint leaves were rubbed on dining tables to welcome guests, while in the Middle East, the host still traditionally offers mint tea to guests upon their arrival.

What is Mint?

There are about 25 different species of mints and peppermint is actually a natural hybrid cross between Mentha aquatica (water mint) and Mentha spicata (spearmint).

Peppermint: Peppermint has greenish-purple lance-shaped leaves and has tastes of a cross between pepper and green chlorophyll. Where chamomile tea can be calming and soothing, peppermint tea is very refreshing and relaxing.

Spearmint: Spearmint has crinkled leaves and pointed leaf tips shaped like spears and is more of a grayish green color than peppermint leaves and has a little more subtle and cool taste than peppermint.

Other plants in mint family include:
  • apple mint
  • orange mint
  • water mint
  • curly mint
  • Corsican mint

Health Benefits of Mint

Mint has significant health benefits mainly focussed around the digestive system.

It has an anti-spasmodic action which helps with:

    * stomach cramps
    * wind
    * dyspepsia
    * diarrhoea
    * Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
    * heartburn
    * indigestion
    * morning sickness
    * nausea

It is also excellent for:

    * clearing a head when suffering from a cold or headaches
    * sweetens breath
    * baby colic
    * manage stress
    * asthma

Mint has an amazing power to cure cancer. Mint contains a phytonutrient called perillyl alcohol. This phytonutrient prevents the occurrence of colon, skin and lung cancer. Mint works by attacking the tumour's blood vessels, starving cancer to death.

With Spearmint teas, recent studies have found that drinking two cups a day can help with Hirsutism – this condition in women, where hair grows in areas such as the face, stomach and chest is thought to be caused by too many androgens (male hormones such as freely circulating testosterone).

Recipe

Chocolate Mint Tea

Chocolate goes well with tea, not just coffee. You can brew up this recipe is a jiffy, using instant hot chocolate powder and bags of mint tea.

Ingredients: 6 mint tea bags / 6 cups milk / 6 tablespoons hot chocolate mix

Preparation: In a saucepan, heat milk with tea bags until almost boiling. Steep for a couple of minutes and strain out tea bags. Pour our 6 mugs of milk, and then stir in a tablespoon of chocolate powder in each mug.

Visit http://www.teaworld.co.uk/search.php?start=0&end=9&query=Mint to see the full range of Mint teas at teaworld.co.uk

Written by Uma Mays
Article source: Articlesbase.com
A main green tea benefit is that it contains powerful antioxidants that favor bacteria beneficial to the human body while killing those that are harmful. Organic green teas have a high rate of antioxidants which are really important to protect the cells from a natural process that prevents toxins that build up from unnecessary oxygen.

Organic tea is the more natural form of modern tea plants that are sprayed with pesticides and other artificial methods of growth. Many tea plantations are now converting to organic due to the harming effects of chemical fertilizers- this organic tea provides a fuller taste that heightens the green tea benefits. The process of green tea formation includes only the leaf bud and top two leaves of the tea plant. The leaves do not become oxidized as they are not fermented like black tea. This process helps to preserve the leaves without destroying the beneficial compounds in the plant. Organic tea benefits also include various nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, manganese and potassium and the vitamins A, C, E and K.

Consumption of organic tea help prevent diseases such as arthritis, improve bone density, reduce the risk of heart disease, and helps fight cataracts. Green organic tea is beneficial for almost every organ in the body as it helps prevent cancer by blocking compounds with poly phenols. Organic green tea helps control blood pressure and reduces the risk of heart attacks. Its daily consumption has shown results in preventing viral infections. It is a very soothing drink that can help you control stress and slow down the aging process. Many people have used green tea for aid in weight loss as well as it works wonders for your metabolism. Tea is also a wonderful alternative to coffee, with many varieties having just half of the caffeine.

I suggest that everyone should experience the flavors and benefits of tea in its organic form. For more information on organic teas and their benefits, visit Tea Noosh.

Written by Rizanne Khan
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
So you are also one of those who wake up to the call of that perfect morning cup of tea! It is quite surprising to know how a simple cup of tea can affect your entire day. A nicely brewed fresh cup of tea in the morning helps you to get going for the rest of the day, and therefore it is quite likely that you surely wouldn't like to compromise when it comes to the quality of your favorite beverage.

If you are an avid tea lover then you sure have tried several kinds of tea that are available on the market, out of which, some you might have liked and some you didn't. However, if taste, quality and color are what you are looking for, then gourmet tea is worth a try. Here in this article we will discuss a few important aspects of gourmet tea that makes it all the more preferable to people.

What makes tea 'Gourmet'?

The term 'gourmet' stands for class, sophistication, and high quality, so when we say 'Gourmet Tea' it means a genre of tea that is of high quality and fine taste. Therefore, the name itself is quite explanatory of what this particular type of tea is all about.

How to distinguish gourmet tea from others of its kind?

In order to classify tea as gourmet, it is very important for it to fulfill certain criteria. They are as follow:

Loose tea is gourmet:

For a type of tea to be classified as gourmet, it is very important for it to be loose and should not come in any tea bag. The teas that come in tea bags do not qualify as gourmet tea.

Tea quality:

The quality of the tea also plays an important role in making it gourmet. The quality has to be excellent. Poor quality or graded tea can never reach the status of gourmet. Some of these teas are of such fine quality that they charge hundreds of dollars for a pound.

Tea blend:

The blend of the tea also defines the category it falls under. So, like quality, the blend of the tea also has to be simply excellent to be able to qualify as gourmet tea.

Why go for gourmet tea?

If you have gone through this article carefully, then you are sure to have an idea by now why one should opt for gourmet tea. However, below are a few reasons to support the same:

• It has many health benefits.
• It offers you excellent taste.
• It offers you different flavors and styles of tea.
• Beautiful aroma.

Where do I find gourmet tea?

There are two ways to go about it; either you go to a tea store in person or simply use the internet to shop for gourmet tea. However, there are pros and cons both like, if you go to a store, then your options will be limited but you can personally examine the product before buying and in case you plan to buy online, then of course you will be exposed to a wide range of products, the only drawback is with shopping for tea online is that you can't analyze the tea before making your purchase. Having said this, good companies usually guarantee the quality of tea they deliver. After all, their credibility is directly related to the quality of tea they provide!

Article written by madhavi. Click here to view the original post.
Due to the abundance of advertisements and commercials, green tea is slowly gaining up on the popularity of the black tea. However, without fervent reminders from various businesses, black tea remains the most popular tea in the United States of America. One of the main reasons for this is because black tea is essentially stronger in taste and aroma compared to other tea variants.

Black tea can be divided into two popular kinds, the Assam and the Darjeeling. Both teas are named after the region in India where it is originally grown. Darjeeling teas are known to have small leaves while that of Assam teas have large leaves. The naming process is patterned after the wine industry where the name of the wine is coined after the region where it comes from.

When it comes to black tea, Darjeeling and Assam are at the forefront of the pack, and for good reasons. Both tea variants are known for having numerous health benefits. It contains more caffeine than your regular cup of tea that is why it has longer shelf life also.

In todays world, the call of going green or being environment-friendly is being responded by a lot of businesses, and that includes the tea industry. Growing edible plants became popular for both the consumers and producers. As a result of this, organic teas such as organic white tea and organic black tea came into existence.

The next time you go to tea stores or even just your local grocery, notice the tags on the tea products today. It is quite common to see the organic label in every tea package because there is a high demand for it. Organic black tea is on the rise, no matter whether it is Assam or Darjeeling.

There are vast tracks of land that are being sprayed with harmful chemicals just to produce tea and that concern has already reached the public. If you are carving for a cup of tea, instead of Big Red Robe, go for the organic ones. It will not only be beneficial to your health but you are supporting a greener environment as well.
A new study appears to add to growing evidence that green tea might help protect against cancer.

U.S. researchers gave 41 volunteers with pre-malignant mouth lesions green tea extract for three months at doses of 500 milligrams per meter squared (mg/m2), 750 mg/m2 or 1,000 mg/m2. The extract was taken by mouth. Other participants took a placebo.
Green Tea Fights Oral CancerThe study found that about 59 percent of people taking the highest dose of the green tea extract showed a clinical response, compared with 18 percent of those who took a placebo. The researchers also noted a trend toward improvement in certain biomarkers that could predict cancer development.

During the study period of about 28 months, 15 people developed oral cancer. People who took the green tea extract and those who didn't were equally likely to develop the cancer. However, people who had mild to moderate dysplasia, or abnormal cell growth, at the start of the study took longer to develop oral cancer if they took the green tea extract.

Study author Dr. Vassiliki Papadimitrakopoulo, a professor in the department of thoracic/head and neck medical oncology at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, said the findings were encouraging but did not provide definitive proof that green tea can prevent cancer.

"This is a phase 2 study with a very limited number of patients who took what would be the equivalent of drinking eight to 10 cups of green tea every single day. We cannot with certainty claim prevention benefits from a trial of this size," Papadimitrakopoulo said in a news release from the American Association for Cancer Research.

"The goal of this kind of research is to determine whether or not these supplements have long-term prevention effects," Papadimitrakopoulo noted. "More research, including studies in which individuals at high risk are exposed to these supplements for longer time periods, is still needed to answer that sort of question."

The findings were released online in advance of publication in the November print issue of the journal Cancer Prevention Research.

More information


The U.S. National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine has more about green tea.

-- Robert Preidt

SOURCE: American Association for Cancer Research, news release, Nov. 5, 2009
Germs 01New studies conducted at Pace University have indicated that White Tea Extract (WTE) may have prophylactic applications in retarding growth of bacteria that cause Staphylococcus infections, Streptococcus infections, pneumonia and dental caries. Researchers present their findings today at the 104th General Meeting of the American Society for Microbiology.

"Past studies have shown that green tea stimulates the immune system to fight disease," says Milton Schiffenbauer, Ph.D., a microbiologist and professor in the Department of Biology at Pace University’s Dyson College of Arts & Sciences and primary author of the research. "Our research shows White Tea Extract can actually destroy in vitro the organisms that cause disease. Study after study with tea extract proves that it has many healing properties. This is not an old wives tale, it’s a fact."

White tea was more effective than green tea at i
nactivating bacterial viruses. Results obtained with the bacterial virus, a model system; suggest that WTE may have an anti-viral effect on human pathogenic viruses. The addition of White Tea Extract to various toothpastes enhanced the anti-microbial effect of these oral agents.

Studies have also indicated that WTE has an anti-fungal effect on Penicillium chrysogenum and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In the presence of WTE, Penicillium spores and Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast cells were totally inactivated. It is suggested that WTE may have an anti-fungal effect on pathogenic fungi.

Several findings in the new study are of particular interest:
    * The anti-viral and anti-bacterial effect of white tea (Stash and Templar brands) is greater than that of green tea.
    * The anti-viral and anti-bacterial effect of several toothpastes including Aim, Aquafresh, Colgate, Crest and Orajel was enhanced by the addition of white tea extract.
    * White tea extract exhibited an anti-fungal effect on both Penicillium chrysogenum and Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
    * White tea extract may have application in the inactivation of pathogenic human microbes, i.e., bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

source: innovations-result.com

A common and popular herbal remedy may be able to help diabetics control their blood sugar and prevent serious complications, according to a study conducted by researchers from Aberystwyth University in Wales and the University of Toyama in Japan, and published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.
Chamomile Tea 03
"These results clearly suggested that daily consumption of chamomile tea with meals could contribute to the prevention of the progress of hyperglycemia and diabetic complications", the researchers wrote.

Researchers fed rats with Type 2 diabetes a chamomile-mimicking extract every day for three weeks, and observed a subsequent 25 percent drop in the animals' blood sugar levels. Based on these findings, the researchers believe that taking chamomile tea with meals might lead to similar benefits in humans.

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body loses sensitivity to the sugar-regulating hormone insulin, leading to a dangerous rise in blood sugar levels. Over time, elevated blood sugar can destroy bodily tissues, leading to complications like diabetic neuropathy, blindness, and damage to the kidneys or circulatory system.

The researchers found that chamomile appeared to reduce the activity of an enzyme called aldose reductase, which plays an important role in sugar metabolism. Aldose reductase helps turn glucose into sorbitol, a different sugar. In diabetics, the buildup of sorbitol has been directly linked to neuropathy and blindness, as this sugar moves across cell membranes less freely than glucose and thus has a tendency to build up in nerve and eye tissue.

Chamomile, also known as manzanilla, has long been used as a home remedy to reduce stress, improve sleep, and alleviate complaints from colds to digestive upset to menstrual cramps. It is believed to contain more antioxidants than nearly any other natural dietary source.

"It is quite fascinating", lead researcher Robert Nash said. "It seems to be doing a lot of different things all at once".

Article Source: newsfood.com
Alzheimer 02 Alzheimer 01
Looking to boost your memory?

Follow what the Brits have been doing for over 350 years, the Japanese for 1,200 years and the Chinese for over 5,000 years. Drink tea.
Green Tea 03
A team from the Medicinal Plant Research Centre at Newcastle University in northeast England makes this recommendation about both green and black tea.

Their research found that tea inhibits the activity of key enzymes in the brain associated with memory.

The researchers hope their findings, published in the Phytotherapy Research journal will lead to the development of a new treatment for Alzheimer's Disease.

Alzheimer's effects approximately 10 million people every year.

Lead researcher Dr. Ed Okello has high hopes that drinking regular cups of tea could help improve your memory.
Possible anti-obesity effects of white tea have been demonstrated in a series of experiments on human fat cells (adipocytes). Researchers writing in BioMed Central’s open access journal Nutrition and Metabolism have shown that an extract of the herbal brew effectively inhibits the generation of new adipocytes and stimulates fat mobilization from mature fat cells.

White Tea 05
Marc Winnefeld led a team of researchers from Beiersdorf AG, Germany, who studied the biological effects of an extract of white tea – the least processed version of the tea plant Camellia sinensis. He said, "In the industrialized countries, the rising incidence of obesity-associated disorders including cardiovascular diseases and diabetes constitutes a growing problem. We’ve shown that white tea may be an ideal natural source of slimming substances".

After treating lab-cultured human pre-adipocytes with the tea extract, the authors found that fat incorporation during the genesis of new adipocytes was reduced. According to Winnefeld, "The extract solution induced a decrease in the expression of genes associated with the growth of new fat cells, while also prompting existing adipocytes to break down the fat they contain".

White tea is made from the buds and first leaves of the plant used to make green tea and the black tea most commonly drunk in Western countries. It is less processed than the other teas and contains more of the ingredients thought to be active on human cells, such as methylxanthines (like caffeine) and epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) – which the authors believe to be responsible for many of the anti-adipogenic effects demonstrated in their study.

Article Source: WebWire
"Lung cancer is the leading cause of all cancer deaths in Taiwan. Tea, particularly green tea, has received a great deal of attention because tea polyphenols are strong antioxidants, and tea preparations have shown inhibitory activity against tumorigenesis," said I-Hsin Lin, a student at Chung Shan Medical University in Taiwan. But, previous studies of green tea were inhibited owing to the flaws of the epidemiologic model with its inherent biases.

The researchers enrolled 170 patients with lung cancer and 340 healthy patients as controls.
They then administered questionnaires to obtain demographic characteristics, cigarette smoking habits, green tea consumption, dietary intake of fruits and vegetables, cooking practices and family history of lung cancer. They also performed genotyping on insulin-like growth factors as polymorphisms on the following insulin-like growth factors- IGF1, IGF2 and IGFBP3, which have all been reported to be associated with cancer risk.

Among smokers and non-smokers, those who did not drink green tea had a 5.16-fold increased risk of lung cancer as compared with those who drank at least one cup of green tea per day. And among smokers, those who did not drink green tea at all had a 12.71-fold increased risk of lung cancer compared with those who drank at least one cup of green tea per day.

The researchers suspected that genetics might play a role in this risk differential. Green tea drinkers with non-susceptible IGF1 (CA)19/(CA)19 and (CA)19/X genotypes reported a 66 percent reduction in lung cancer risk as compared with green tea drinkers carrying the IGF1 X/X genotype. Heavy smokers carrying susceptible IGF1, IGF2 and IGFBP3 genotypes also had a higher risk of lung cancer compared with nonsmokers carrying non-susceptible IGF1, IGF2 and IGFBP3 genotypes.

"Our study may represent a clue that in the case of lung cancer, smoking-induced carcinogenesis could be modulated by green tea consumption and the growth factor environment," said Lin.

Article Source: The Times of India
Research has linked Chinese tea to weight loss. Drinking Chinese tea may help you burn fat and calories thereby assisting with weight loss.

Recent studies support claims that green tea helps to burn fat and increase metabolism. According to this research, the catechin polyphenols in green tea extract alters the body's use of norepinephrine. Norepinephrine is a chemical used within the brain to transmit information between the brain and the body.

The stimulation that green tea does to norepinephrine causes an increase in metabolism, meaning the rate the body burns calories is sped up. These studies showed the thermogenic properties of green tea promote fat oxidation that cannot be explained by caffeine content alone. It is unclear if green tea is helping to control body composition by thermogenesis or fat oxidation or if it is a combination of the two.

Growing evidence links Chinese green tea to weight loss. With all of the information available on weight loss that has been sparked by green tea consumption it comes as no surprise that Chinese slimming tea has become widely available to the general public no matter which country you live in. There are many different combinations of Chinese teas using many different traditional Chinese herbs to assist those people who wish to lose weight.

Some of the more popular Chinese slimming teas available on the market are:

Slimming Special Tea
This Chinese tea is made of a traditional combination of Chinese herbs. Triple leaf brand teas of the finest qualities are used for maximum freshness and flavor. The herb combination is thought to produce the most satisfaction from an all natural beverage. It is suggested that you include fresh vegetables, fruits, and water in your weight loss eating plan.

Slimming Tea
Made of natural Chinese herbs reinforced with Panax Ginseng this dietary supplement harmonizes your need to lose weight with your need to maintain good health. The gentle diuretic and laxative effect and enhanced appetite control make this Chinese herbal slimming tea an excellent choice of beverage to sip while relaxing in the evening. Some of the side effects may be annoying for the first couple days, these include increased bowel movements. Shortening the time you steep the tea will lower the herb content and reduce these symptoms.

Super Slimming Tea
Triple Leaf-Tea.com recently introduced their Super Slimming Tea. This combination of traditional Chinese herbs are used to help promote body cleansing and detoxification. Another benefit is improvement to digestion. Licorice root is used in this tea. The licorice root will not only give it a robust flavor but it also detoxifies as well. Orange peel is also used to assist with digestion as well. The Triple Leaf Tea company claims this product is their most potent Chinese slimming tea.

Other brands are available on the market. It is important to keep in mind there is no miracle cure for obesity. You will have to diet, exercise, and eat right if you want your body to recover and return to your former thin self.

Discuss the addition of Chinese green tea to your diet when you see your physician next. It is important to let your health care professional know when you make life changes like dieting, or increasing your physical exercise.

Article written by Drew Jackson. For additional information on Green tea visit Discovering Green Tea

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Drew_Jackson
Lemon balm tea is considered to be one of Natures wonders. This aromatic tea is brewed by placing the leaves of the lemon balm herb into boiling water and steeping it for as long as the individual wants. The length of the brewing determines the strength of the tea.
Lemon Balm Tea 01 Proponents of lemon balm tea attest to it’s abilities to fight insomnia and other sleep difficulties. They also say that it can combat nerve pain. Others tout it’s abilities to alleviate gas and other disorders of the digestive system. The tea is also said to help with memory and other brain functions.

There are also folks that attest to this teas propensity for anti-herpes and thyroid regulating abilities. A number of aficionados believe that lemon balm tea can help to elevate their mood.

The botanical name for lemon balm is Melissa Officinalis and it is also known as the bee plant, because Roman beekeepers would place sprigs from this herb inside their hives to attract swarms of bees. The name Melissa comes from the Greek word for bee.

Arab physicians promoted the therapeutic uses of the lemon balm herb and praised it’s ability to reduce swelling and close wounds. The leaves are also used to treat bites and stings and the ointment is also said to repel insects. It also produces perspiration and therefore is used in the treatment of feverish patients especially those with influenza.

Throughout history lemon balm tea was reputed as being able to “renew”, therefore it was used as an “elixir of youth”. For this reason it is believed to be an herb that adds to longevity.

 This herb should be cut when it begins to bloom. Adding it to foods along with other spices adds wonderful flavor to culinary dishes. It will combine well with rosemary and thyme, bay leaves, allspice, mint and pepper. It can also be added to fruit and green salads, fruit drinks, herb butters, and sorbets.

Adding lemon balm to egg dishes, soups, casseroles, and custards gives an added subtle flavor that will impress the most finicky palate. It is also an herb that can be added to meat dishes such as lamb, poultry and pork.

The many ways that this herb can be used adds to it’s popularity, but the most beneficial use is as lemon balm tea, if only for it’s promise to increase the length of time we can enjoy it’s benefits.
Article Source: HerbalTeaBoutique
By Mark Ramos

What is the answer to the long debated question as to whether coffee or tea is better for you? Find out which drink offers a surprising amount of health benefits!Coffee or Tea Recently, many Americans have started drinking tea because of its wealth of health benefits. However, if you are a coffee lover, then do not despair! Recent studies have proven that coffee is full of healthy compounds and antioxidants to prevent disease and reduce premature aging. What wonderful news!

America has always been a country devoted to coffee, and it started out as an obsession with plain black coffee, perhaps with cream and sugar. Nowadays, you can walk to any city corner in the United States to find one or even two Starbucks coffee shops as part of the growing commercial coffee industry. This was something that became popularized in Seattle, and gourmet coffee drinks have become a staple in the US today. Coffee itself is actually a largely growing industry, and it is the second largest exported commodity worldwide, next to oil.

Coffee's reputation took a little bit of a hit several years ago when studies claimed that coffee was bad for you. However, what those studies also did not reveal was that the coffee drinkers within the studies were also smokers, so all of the health issues researched could actually be attributed to smoking. Now that that rumors have been cleared up, coffee is again being researched, only to find that it is full of healthy benefits and potential for disease prevention!

Many people started drinking tea because it is full of antioxidants, but did you know that Java actually contains more antioxidants than a cup of tea? Coffee also has the potential to protect against liver disease and cancer, and it lowers the risk of developing type II diabetes. The reason for this is that regular coffee consumption will lower blood sugar levels in the body and regulate the metabolism, which can often contribute to type II diabetes.

Many people rely upon tea for weight loss benefits, especially since green tea can be found in many diet products. However, if you drink coffee in moderation, then you can also experience the benefits of boosting metabolism and suppressing the appetite due to the caffeine content, also offering you the ability to lose extra pounds. If you're hoping to lose weight, the best way to drink coffee is black, and also to split it up throughout the day. Splitting up your coffee consumption will prevent you from having a caffeine crash, and it will also keep your metabolism high all day long.

When it comes to the debate as to whether coffee or tea is better, keep in mind that coffee is currently the number one beverage source of antioxidants being consumed in the United States today. Tea comes in second, but it is a less popular drink for consumption. It has also been disproven that coffee contributes to heart disease, and it will protect against Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.

The bottom line is that both beverages provide health benefits, but coffee's list of wellness payoffs is growing longer and longer every day, so why not drink to your health?

Another popular accessory for coffee is the commercial coffee maker! For a great selection, check out Mark Ramos' website, The Coffee Bump.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?Is-Coffee-Or-Tea-Better-For-You?&id=3556979
Green tea is used by the Chinese as a traditional medicine to treat many ailments including acne and to improve the general welfare. But providing an effective herbal alternative to modern medicine?

The answer is: Yes. There are only two herbal treatments that are known to be effective in combating acne and green tea is one of them.
Green Tea Fights Acne 01In a recent study, a creamy green tea green was combined resolving a benzoyl peroxide 4% in people who suffer with a moderate acne. The results of this research study showed that green tea was so good in treating acne such as benzoyl peroxide.

But benzoyl peroxide dry the skin that cause allergic reactions or irritations older. Unlike green tea that has the advantages of being a perfect natural antibacterial antioxidant.

Green tea also helps reduce inflammation, hormonal activity and aid in detoxification, that good news for those suffering from diseases of acne.

The green tea extract is an extremely versatile herbal supplement, can be administered topically, is also sometimes used orally, taken in the form of a pill or incorporated into your diet and drunk as tea.

This last method is very popular. Green tea is also known as "shin tea" in many cities in china. When used after a meal, it helps digestion and helps to detoxify our system, achieving in this way a release of toxins that can cause acne. Caution: do not have to drink it with sugar, thus neutralize the effects of the successful tea.

It is said that green tea for acne is a win-win disease. It has many beneficial characteristics that will give us good health with little or no known side effects so far. Green tea is without doubt an herbal treatment that is worthy of trying.

article source: acneproblem.ca
Chrysanthemum tea 01Chrysanthemum tea is made form chrysanthemum flowers, belonging to the Chrysanthemum morifolium or Chrysanthemum indicum species, which is extremely popular in East Asia, specifically China. Chrysanthemum flowers are usually dried and boiled in hot water in a teapot, cup or glass, to prepare this tea. Rock sugar or honey is also added to chrysanthemum tea and occasionally, wolfberries are included. The tea that is prepared is transparent and can be bright yellow or pale in color, exuding a floral aroma. In China, after a pot of chrysanthemum tea is emptied, hot water is again added to the flowers. This produces a tea that is less strong than the previous one. The process is repeated several times, until the flowers lose their aroma completely. Traditional Chinese medicine practices still use chrysanthemum tisane for treating conditions such as sore throat and fever.


Nutrition & Health Benefits Of Chrysanthemum Tea


  • Chrysanthemum tea detoxifies the blood, helps with sinus congestion and regulates high blood pressure. It can also help to calm the nerves.
  • Modern researches on the tea have established that it contains choline, vitamin A, vitamin B1, glycosides, adenine, amino acids, flavonoid, volatile oil, and other nutrients.
  • Chrysanthemum tea restrains the growth of bacteria in the body, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus hemolyticus B, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Shigella dysenteriae, tubercle bacillus and dermatomycosis.
  • The Chinese medicine prescribes this tea for relief against influenza and it is also used in treating heatstroke, due to its cooling effect.
  • When chrysanthemum tea is drunk with meals, it facilitates digestion, more so of greasy and oily foods. The tea is also consumed to strengthen the lungs and relieve head congestion.
  • The tea is also believed to improve vision and hearing. It can be safely recommended for obese people, as it contains zero calories, when consumed without adding sugar or honey. It also doesn’t contain any caffeine.

Caution

Some individuals can experience an adverse reaction on consuming chrysanthemum and even handling chrysanthemum flowers. Mild skin irritation may result on physical handling and mild to moderate stomach upset can be experienced on consumption. Though most people do not suffer from any adverse reactions from chrysanthemum tea, it is advisable to consult a doctor before its consumption, as some herbal solutions can interact with other prescribed medications.

article source: iloveindia.com
4 Effective and Safe Herbal Treatments for Asthma

Herbs have been used by our ancestors to cure various illnesses including asthma. Although anywhere you might ask, doctors and clinicians will always warn you of the possible dangers that herbs can have and for some this might be true, the fact that some herbal treatments have already been proven safe and effective for asthma cannot be denied.

Using the right combination of herbal remedies can prove beneficial not only for your asthma but also for your total wellbeing since herbs have been known to aid the body’s immunity making you more resilient to any underlying causes that might worsen the condition. If you are looking for alternative safe herbal asthma treatments here are a few that you can start with:

Chamomile: Chamomile extract contains terpenoids that acts asChamomile Tea 02 anti-inflammatory, and anti spasmodic preventing onset of attacks. Not only that, chamomile also contains anti-oxidants that prevent oxygen free-radicals from accumulating inside the body causing the condition to worsen. Usually bought in tea form, chamomile is one of the easiest, cheapest and safest herbal treatments for asthma. For those who are taking warfarin though, avoid chamomile at all costs as it may have contradicting effects.

Ginger: Not only a food ingredient, ginger is one of the mostGinger Tea 01 common and readily available herbal treatments for asthma. A tropical perennial plant growing mostly in some parts of Asia, more and more people are discovering the benefits of this humble plant to care for their condition. Serving mostly as an expectorant in short term use, the natural chemicals contained in ginger breaks up mucus making it easier to expel. Long term use of ginger has been shown to ease dyspneic attacks and nocturnal coughing in patients. Found in many forms, including dried, fresh and powdered, ginger can prove to be one of your best weapon against asthma.

Nettle: Urtica Dioica in particular has been usedNettle Tea 01 to treat many  illnesses aside from asthma. Taking nettle in tea form can be very beneficial for the whole system as it contains high amounts of iron, chlorophyll and vitamin C. Preparation of nettle root can also be beneficial since it can stimulate production of T-Cells within the body, increasing immunity to allergic reactions.

Ephedra: Ephedra has been used for centuries even before the advent of conventional and more advanced asthma medication. Ephedra has been recently under fire due the various side effects that may arise from its ingestion. One reason for this may be because of improper preparation and experimentation with other chemicals. Traditional preparations for ephedra have been very effective and only a few isolated cases of side effects have been reported. This plant contains ephedrine which helps the lungs in opening the airways by stimulating the release of norepinephrine.

As always, before trying anything out be sure that you ask for expert help from herbalists which will be able to help you with preparations and thereby maximize the concoctions effectivity and assure safety.

Article written by Tomato on December 29th, 2009
Article Source: Allergy-remedy.org
A common and popular herbal remedy may be able to help diabetics control their blood sugar and prevent serious complications, according to a study conducted by researchers from Aberystwyth University in Wales and the University of Toyama in Japan, and published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.

"These results clearly suggested that daily consumption of chamomile tea with meals could contribute to the prevention of the progress of hyperglycemia and diabetic complications", the researchers wrote.

Researchers fed rats with Type 2 diabetes a chamomile-mimicking extract every day for three weeks, and observed a subsequent 25 percent drop in the animals' blood sugar levels. Based on these findings, the researchers believe that taking chamomile tea with meals might lead to similar benefits in humans.

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body loses sensitivity to the sugar-regulating hormone insulin, leading to a dangerous rise in blood sugar levels. Over time, elevated blood sugar can destroy bodily tissues, leading to complications like diabetic neuropathy, blindness, and damage to the kidneys or circulatory system.

The researchers found that chamomile appeared to reduce the activity of an enzyme called aldose reductase, which plays an important role in sugar metabolism. Aldose reductase helps turn glucose into sorbitol, a different sugar. In diabetics, the buildup of sorbitol has been directly linked to neuropathy and blindness, as this sugar moves across cell membranes less freely than glucose and thus has a tendency to build up in nerve and eye tissue.

Chamomile, also known as manzanilla, has long been used as a home remedy to reduce stress, improve sleep, and alleviate complaints from colds to digestive upset to menstrual cramps. It is believed to contain more antioxidants than nearly any other natural dietary source.

"It is quite fascinating", lead researcher Robert Nash said. "It seems to be doing a lot of different things all at once".

Article Source: RuggedElegantMovie
Chamomile tea has been used as a healing drink for centuries so it’s no wonder that it is estimated that over 1 million cups are ingested every day. The medicinal properties of this tea are wide and many, but perhaps the best known is it’s ability to help you relax. Many people like to drink it before bedtime as a sleep inducer and one herbal medicine guide claims that drinking chamomile tea before bed will stop nightmares.
Chamomile TeaChamomile tea can be purchased from almost any health food or grocery store. You can make your own by pouring one cup of boiling water over four or five fresh flower heads. Let the tea steep for 5 minutes and strain.

Some natural medicine books recommend using chamomile tea for children and the does should be half of the adult dose. Make sure you let your childs doctor know before you give him chamomile tea.

Although this tea is fairly safe, some can have severe allergic reactions. If you suffer allergies such as ragweed or hayfever, it might be best to avoid drinking chamomile tea. People with Asthma should drink chamomile tea with caution. Although it is said chamomile tea can help relieve the pain of labor, it is not advisable to drink a lot of it during pregnancy as it may cause uterine contractions.

 
Healing Uses Of Chamomile Tea

- Add several cups chamomile tea, to a cool bath and have a relaxing soak.

- Use chamomile tea to relieve anxiety or put a handful of chamomile flowers in a bowl of hot water and inhale the scent.

- Use a poultice of cool chamomile tea for burns.

- To relieve insomnia, drink a cup of chamomile tea at bedtime

- Drink a cup of hot chamomile tea to soothe an upset stomach.

- Add chamomile oil or tea to a hot bath to help soothe dry skin.

- Use chamomile tea and powdered milk as an exfoliating paste for sensitive skin.

- Cooled chamomile tea can be made into a compress to soothe irritated and strained eyes and is reputed to help treat conjunctivitis.

- Chamomile is an anti-fungal, therefore a tea can help treat fungal infections by dipping into a cotton ball and applying to the area.

- Chamomile tea is also said to help relieve menstrual cramps in women due to it’s ability of relaxing the uterus.

Chamomile tea has been a common beverage for eons and its safety can be regarded as well proven. The calming effects of this tea are rather mild, so they may not be experienced by everyone.

Article written by Lee Dobbins of Herbs and Home Remedies - where you can learn more about herbs and natural healing. To view the original post, click here.
Acid Reflux – What to Drink

There are a number of drinks you may want to try for acid reflux. Most fall under the category of folk remedy, but many people get relief with them. This information is for educational purposes only, of course. Please seek advice from your physician before drinking any of these.

1. Slippery Elm Bark Tea: Health food stores usually have slippery elm bark tea. Drink the bark tea with your meal to avoid acid reflux. Bark tea coats the esophagus lining, reducing its sensitivity to acid. If you want to make the tea at home, try to purchase the shredded bark. Use the inner part of the bark, and steep it in hot water for your acid reflux tea. This makes a thick beverage, with a consistency similar to runny gelatin. If it is too thick for you, simply add more hot water.

2. Ginger Tea: Ginger tea also is available in health food stores, and is helpful for acid reflux when used either with the meal or immediately following the meal. It is easily made at home. Use 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger root, or 1,000 mg of ginger powder. If neither is available, use ground ginger from the spice rack. Steep the ginger in 1 cup boiling water for 5 minutes, and then sip. Ginger is helpful for indigestion and acid reflux, especially if caused by spicy foods.
Ginger Tea and Licorice Tea 013. Licorice Tea: Licorice tea is also effective in the battle against acid reflux. Purchase your tea, or make it by placing 1 teaspoon of licorice root in 1 1/4 cups of boiling water. Turn the heat low, and simmer the tea for 10 to 15 minutes in a covered pan. Remove from heat, and stir in 2 teaspoons of dried chamomile. Cover and allow your acid reflux tea to steep for 10 minutes. Strain it before drinking.

CAUTION: NEVER use licorice tea for acid reflux if you have high blood pressure (hypertension).

4. Clove-Ade: If you prefer a cold drink rather than tea, you may get relief from acid reflux by drinking a glass of clove-ade. Simply add a few drops of clove oil to a glass of cold water. Stir, and sip the clove-ade slowly to offset acid reflux.

5. Banana Milk-less Smoothies: Bananas seem to be very effective as an acid reflux fighter. Bananas become a natural antacid in the body. Banana milk-less smoothies are a cool way to use the banana’s ability to fight acid reflux. Start smoothies the night before by placing 1 banana, peeled and cut in pieces, into a freezer container. The next day, put the frozen banana chunks in a blender with 3 cups of soy milk, 1 cup of frozen strawberries, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Add sugar or other sweetener to taste, and blend until smooth. Sip slowly to relieve acid reflux.

Heartburn, acid reflux, GERD, or indigestion: people have found relief for all of them by abstaining from drinking certain beverages, making a point of drinking other beverages.

Article written by Anna Hart. To view the article source, click here
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