Chat~tea

So since summer has arrived for Central Oregon - it seems fitting to share my "tea" recipe. One of my nicknames that I have inherited in this lifetime is…. “Chatty”.  Back in 1979, my "Johne" was a customer at a local family owned “Cheers” type restaurant in Portland, Oregon.  O’Connor’s was a great spot (still is – just in a different location now).  I was taking classes at Portland State U and worked there evenings and weekends.   Mind you, back then, I was not fond of the nickname and in fact was somewhat insulted by it when he first came in, and in his very black /dry humor sort of way said to me “Who has been pulling your string”? (For those of you who remember - think Chatty Cathy doll).  It stuck, and obviously so did he, as we are together and have been friends for all those years, and a “couple” for 10 years. 

While I am a one cup of espresso a day woman (actually now drink half caffeine, half de-caf, served with a blip of our own home made “Jurgen-Daaz”)…. the fact is, I am a lover of herbal tea, and drink it copiously, winter, spring, summer and fall.  My Mama was a big iced tea drinker (“sweet tea”) but my blend has evolved over the years.  Not only is it refreshing, caffeine free (can be tweaked to containing caffeine if desired) but it is also so full of healthy ingredients it is beyond good for HUMAN consumption.

Recipe as follows:

I use a vintage 2+ quart mason jar – but use whatever works best for your amount /needs / consumption

• 1 package of Ginger Honey Crystals (Prince of Peace)

• 1/4 cup (tops) honey

• add a small amount of warm water to break down the crystals and honey, stir together

• 2 teaspoons organic Rooibos tea

• ¼ cup plus organic Hibiscus tea

• 1/ 4 of a lemon

• If available (we have plenty in our garden) fresh lemon balm leaves (play with this flavor)

For those who want the green tea caffeine blast

• 1 teaspoon of organic Gunpowder Green

Today’s version I added a few fresh lavender heads from my garden – cannot wait to try it. I use a gold mesh strainer and muslin tea bags which work great and can be reused and reused (being a firm believer in reduce,reuse, recycle of course!)

Health benefits as follows:

Rooibos: derived from red bush" its scientific name is Aspalathus linearis), which is a broom-like member of the legume family of plants growing in South Africa's fynbos.  Rooibos contains high level of antioxidants, is caffeine free and also has low tannin levels. Rumor also has it that rooibos is useful in assisting with nervous tension, allergies and digestive problems.  Traditional medicinal uses of rooibos in South Africa include alleviating infantile colic, allergies, asthma and dermatological problems

Hibiscus tea: Hibiscus is prepared from parts of the dried flower, though it can be made with fresh flowers as well. From a wellness perspective it is considered to be a mild diuretic, can aid the body in expelling toxins, and is often used to lower blood pressure. Clinical studies have been carried out which support its use for controlling blood pressure. As a result, it can be beneficial for those whose blood pressure problems are caused by stress.  Some say, it is additionally beneficial for lowering cholesterol. These benefits are also thought to be useful in combating heart disease and in Eastern medicine it is purported to treat liver problems. Hibiscus tea is packed with vitamin C and is an aid in strengthening the immune system. It has powerful antioxidant properties and can help to remove bacteria from the system. It is also useful for preventing and fighting infections.

In summary, as I am not a doctor or a medical professional, please proceed with your consumption based on your sipping pleasure (and other food/dietary) requirements.   

But when and if you DECIDE to try this recipe out, please ENJOY!