Green Tea has been around for almost 4,000 years. According to some studies, compared to other drinks, Green Tea gives several health benefits. Herbal Chinese medicine has long had knowledge about the medicinal benefits of Green Tea. It can be an answer for almost every ailment, from physical to mental & emotional problems. Green Tea has long been used as a traditional treatment. But can also help people with their weight issues, diet and overall health.
Green Tea is an important historical plant that comes from the leaves of the Camellia Sinensis and is produced through special processing.
What’s so special about Green Tea?
The secret lies in catechin polyphenols which contain a very powerful antioxidant called, Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCE). This specialized antioxidant has a long list of health benefits.
The general benefits of Green Tea include, but are not limited to:
- Inhibits cells causing cancer
- Can also kill cancer cells without being harmful to the adjacent tissues
- Very effective in decreasing cholesterol levels
- Inhibiting the abnormal accumulation of blood clots
- Helpful in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases
- Helpful in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis
- Reduces the risk of esophageal cancer
- Has been used to traditionally treat multiple sclerosis
- Treat immune system disorders
- Used to prevent Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s Disease
- Daily consumption of Green Tea can prevent tooth decay. It has been found that Green Tea can fight and kill bacteria that is one of the leading causes of plaque.
- It can result in decreased risk of heart attacks and heart diseases by reducing thrombosis formation.
- Improve the ratio of good cholesterol to bad cholesterol.
- It is said to increase fat oxidation and metabolism inside the body. This is why it has been used by many who want to lose weight.
Unlike Black Tea which is crafted from the same plant, Camellia Sinensis, is the way in which Green Tea is processed. Green tea leaves are steamed or heated, which halts the oxidation process leaving the EGCG. Black Tea on the other hand is made through a fermentation process.
The process of fermenting or oxidizing the leaves darkens the tea and converts the EGCG into compounds that are not as effective as those found in Green Tea in terms of fighting or preventing diseases.
Is there Caffeine in Green Tea?
Despite its many advantages, Green Tea can have a slight “disadvantage” in the caffeine content. However, compared to coffee, Green Tea has much less caffeine. Additionally the caffeine is utilized by the body differently when it comes from Green Tea.
Green tea is a healthful drink, and worth adding to your daily regimen. It makes a great replacement for those less-than-healthy drinks you are anxious to get rid of.
With added herbs and flowers you can enjoy a variety of flavors and uses for Green Tea. At Backyard Patch Herbs we blend several varieties of Green Tea with herbs to give depth for both hot and cold brewing.
Green Teas of Backyard Patch Herbs:
- Summer Green - Pan-fried Green tea with summer flowers of lavender, chamomile, and hibiscus.
- Winter Green - Gunpowder green tea with winter flavors of rose, cardamon, ginger and lemongrass.
- To Calm Nerves Green - A deeply calming blend built on Gunpowder green tea and mellow herbs. Lemon balm, lavender, oats, and hops create a softly soothing cup ideal for unwinding.
- Remedy Green - Dragonwell green tea with classic kitchen herbs and warming spice. Minty, slightly savory, and gently spiced, it’s a comforting cup when you want something a little stronger but still smooth.
- For the Tummy Green - A gentle, soothing green tea blend designed for easy sipping after meals. Dragonwell green tea is paired with calming flowers and herbs traditionally used to support digestion.
- Green Chai Spice - Chai Spices in a green tea base
- Georgian Green - Hyson Green with lemon thyme and mint - a Bridgerton Blend
Green Tea is also a great flavor compliment for cocktails made with Gin or Faux Gin.
A light and calming cocktail for celebrating Spring and Summer. Make it by the pitcher to sip on the patio and enjoy your fresh lavender.
Lavender Green Tea Cocktail
Make 2 drinks:
6 oz Lavender flavored Green Tea (We suggest Summer Green)
2 oz Gin or Faux Gin
Agave syrup/honey/or simple syrup, to taste
2 Fresh lavender sprigs
Make a Pitcher:
3 to 4 cups of brewed Lavender flavored Green Tea
1 cup Gin or Faux Gin
Agave syrup/honey/or simple syrup, to taste
Brew tea using hot water and allow to steep 3 to 4 minutes, chill in refrigerator.
For 2 servings, add 6 oz of cooled lavender green tea to a cocktail shaker with ice, 2 oz of gin and sweetener to taste. Shake 30 seconds and pour into two ice filled rocks glasses. Garnish with a sprig of lavender.
For a pitcher, add 3 to 4 cups brewed lavender green tea to a pitcher and chill in the refrigerator.
Once chilled add 1 cup of gin, sweeten to taste, and ice and stir. Enjoy with Friends!
*Medical Disclaimer: The information in this article is to be used for general informational purposes only. It should not be used in place of, or in conjunction with, professional medical advice. If you have further specific questions you are urged to consult with your personal physician for additional information.