Tea is one of the most consumed beverages in the United States. Yet, there are still some misconceptions surrounding tea and herbal blends. Let’s explore the basics of one of the most popular drinks in the world and get the tea facts straight.
Ready for some tea facts?
Herbal Tea is Not Tea.
I must admit, before I ventured into the tea business, I swore all herbal blends were tea. False! Now that WE know better, lets educate the good people. True tea only comes from a plant called Camellia Sinensis. Blends with herbs, flowers, spices are called herbal infusions or tisanes. This is a tea fact good people.
Tea Bags Is Just Like Loose Leaf Tea.
This statement is technically true. Tea bags contain tea leaves except the leaves are more likely to be smaller and broken. Most tea bags are made up of dust and crumbled leaves leaving the quality of the tea not so desirable. Tea bags make for easier preparation than loose leaf tea but that act of brewing loose leaf tea is calming, relaxing, and results in a stronger and more potent cuppa.
Green Tea Is Better for You Than Black Tea.
Green tea and black tea come from the same plant as mentioned above. The real difference is how they are processed which results in a difference of color, flavor, antioxidant profile, and caffeine levels. To say one tea is better than the other would be like choosing a favorite child. They are both delicious and great for your health.
Decaffeinated Tea is Caffeine-free.
Believe it or not, there is a difference between decaffeinated tea and caffeine-free tea. Decaffeinated tea undergoes a process that attempts to strip the caffeine from the tea leaf. The process usually results is a small amount of caffeine remaining in the tea. Caffeine-free is a product that never contained caffeine. This statement is a myth. If interested in a true caffeine-free tea, try a herbal blend.
Tea Doesn’t Have an Expiration Date.
There are too many variables to give a straight response about this statement. Over time, tea leaves and herbs will loose their flavor, color, aroma, and potency. You could still get your sip on but you will not get the best cup of tea. Loose leaf tea last 6 – 12 months depending on how it is stored. Herbal infusions (without tea leaves) can last up to 18 months. Store your herbal and tea blends in a cool and dark place to extend its shelf life. It is recommended to drink your tea or herbal blend within 6 months of purchase. If the blend is moldy, please do not drink.
Now that you are in the know, go forth, stop spreading the myths and, share these tea facts with your fellow good people.
…because it’s peace
