I developed this blend as a gift for family this holiday (so, naturally, I wasn't able to post it until *after* they got their gifts, lest I spoil the surprise). This blend is a true tea blend, and not a tisane, or herbal tea, like the previous blends I've posted. Its base is green jasmine tea.
Typically, when we think of winter, our palates conjure up the rich tastes of the heavy, warming spices like cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg. But I find there is a crisper, lighter taste to the season too--one of early winter mornings and the sharp scent of citrus. This tea is meant to taste like that first day of winter: fresh, vibrant, a promise of life underneath the carpet of snow.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup jasmine green tea
1/2 cup dried raspberry leaves
1/2 cup dried rose petals
1/2 cup dried orange peels
1/2 dried ginger pieces
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl and place in an airtight storage container away from light. A mason jar works well--add a ribbon to it and you've got a lovely gift!
To brew, place a heaping teaspoon in a strainer and let sit in 8 oz. hot water for no more than three minutes (the tea will get bitter if left longer). If you want a stronger brew, add more tea leaves.
Health properties of ingredients:
Jasmine green tea: loaded with antioxidants and catechins that protect the body from free radicals and other toxins; lowers blood pressure.
Raspberry leaves: tastes like a lighter, more floral black tea, without the caffeine; contains vitamins A, B, C, and E, not to mention iron, potassium, and calcium, among other vital nutrients; relieves tension and tones pelvic muscles.
Rose petals: contains vitamins A, B, C, D, and E; mild sedative; anti-inflammatory; antibacterial; cleanses system of toxins.
Orange peel: can lower cholesterol; anti-microbial; anti-inflammatory; anti-fungal; promotes healthy liver function; mood booster.
Ginger: soothes stomach pain; anti-inflammatory; aids digestion.
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