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Have you ever had a cup of tea that was just...dead? It could be because it was stored in an unsealed container. Many people don't know that what makes tea so yummy is the volatile oils it contains. No, it doesn't mean your tea container is going to explode or be a fire hazard, although, I do know a group of young boys who would be glad to spend an afternoon burning tea bags just to make sure! It only means that the flavorful part of the tea will evaporate if left in an unsealed or paper box. Just be sure to keep your tea in a tightly sealed container, like a tin with a tight fitting lid or even a canning jar with a nice fitting lid. Just make sure it's not the lid from the wonderful pickles or garlicky spaghetti sauce you canned last summer or you'll end up with Earl Grey with essence of vinegar, or Organic Green tea with hint of garlic. I've kept tea fresh for terribly long periods of time this way.
Did you know that tea has some great benefits? I'm sure you've heard,
but here are a few of the beneficial effects of green or black tea...
Anti-cancer properties-I guess it has antioxidantepigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG, which slows the growth of some cancer cells
Increases metabolic rate-apparently it makes your body more efficient at burning fat.
Possible anti-diabetes effect-unconfirmed, but sounds hopeful. Boosts immune system and mental alertness-Camellia sinensis, or tea, contains the amino acid L-theanine. Studies show this may help the body's immune system and increase alpha wave production helping your body relax. It also seems to lower cognitive impairment associated with old age.
Lowers stress hormone levels-Wow! This one is worth researching. Studies indicate an average 47% cortisol, or stress hormone, drop in tea drinkers after a stressful event.
Effects on HIV-not only does tea boost immune systems, but theaflavins, and thearubigins found in black tea compounds help bind up gp41, the second step by which hiv enters a cell. It also contains Oxalates which clean up free iron and chelate zinc.
Effects on bad breath-Hmmmm. Um, it inhibits the growth of bacteria which cause bad breath, but I wouldn't suggest throwing away the old toothbrush.
Iron overload disorders-An estimated 1 in every 300-400 people suffer from iron overload disorder, this can cause damage to pancreas, liver and other organs. The tannins in tea inhibit iron absorption and so, can help prevent this condition.Effects associated with caffeine-Did you know that caffeine has some BENEFITS? Most people assume that it is only harmful. But it is associated with cognitive enhancement and also a reduction in the likelihood of Parkinson's disease. It can also give a temporary boost to your short term memory.
So, go put the kettle on! Then let me know if you like tea...
Blessings,Sheri
Most facts gleaned from Wikipedia.
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| | Posted 9/7/2007 2:14 PM - 80 Views - 26 eProps - 13 comments
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