Protecting Your Health with Resveratrol

Protecting Your Health with Resveratrol 

With so many articles and studies coming out about the benefits of Resveratrol, you might think that it was recently discovered. The truth is, this powerful antioxidant has been in use for more than 1,000 years in Eastern medicine. Now it has come to the attention of Western researchers and those who interested in the health benefits that Resveratrol can offer.

In 1939, Resveratrol became listed as a naturally occurring phytochemical by Japanese scientific researcher in residence at Cornell University, Michio Takaoka. It wasn’t until the late 1990’s that more researchers became interested in the health benefits of Resveratrol.

In 2005, Dr. David Sinclair and Dr. Konrad Howitz of Harvard University published their study of Resveratrol in the journal Nature. Their study found that the lifespans of the animals that were given Resveratrol lengthened by as much as 30%.

The study also gave indications that the constituents found in Resveratrol showed promise in the reduction of obesity, the prevention of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and dementia. It also showed the potential of increasing memory, coordination and mobility. This early study was promising enough to entice other universities and medical researchers to take a closer look at the potential health benefits of Resveratrol.

What is Resveratrol?

Resveratrol supplementNaturally found in grapes and other plants, Resveratrol contains potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is the most highly studied of the four known polyphenols, stilbenoids, and antioxidants that occur in grapes.

These constituents serve to protect plants from any bacterial or fungal diseases by destroying invading microbes, boosting the plant’s immune system and reducing the effects of stress. Studies show a strong indication that these protections can be transferred directly from the plant to the animals or humans that consume them.

Resveratrol Benefits

In November of 1991, CBS’ weekly program 60 Minutes broadcasted a report that suggested that due to the consumption of wine in France, people living in that country experienced lower levels of heart disease. Most researchers then and now agree that the consumption of red wine, grapes, dark berries or other foods containing higher levels of polyphenols like Resveratrol do appear to have lessened incidences heart disease, hypertension, cancer, diabetes, and other diseases while also having an increased immune response.

In 1997, a French woman by the name of Jeanne Calment died after living to the ripe age of 122 years. While her secret to a long life may well have been due to good genetics, there is some speculation as to whether drinking red wine may have helped her live longer than anyone else.

Health with Resveratrol

Antioxidant

Every day the foods we eat, the environments we live and work in, and the very air we breathe add to the stresses our bodies experience. By consuming foods and supplements which antioxidant-rich like Resveratrol, we can possibly reduce some of the stresses and adverse effects on the body.

Antioxidant properties found in Resveratrol can potentially:

  • Lower blood pressure – A Chinese study conducted in 2005 indicated that as a supplement, Resveratrol could act to reduce systolic blood pressure and relieve stress on arterial walls and potentially reduce hypertension.
  • Cholesterol Reduction – Researchers found strong evidence that Resveratrol reduces the enzyme that controls the levels of LDL cholesterol production in the body and reduces them. After six months, those who participated in the study found a reduction in LDL cholesterol levels of up to 20%.
  • Possible Cancer Inhibitor – Several studies have been conducted on the effects of Resveratrol on the formation and treatment of cancer in the body. These have shown great promise in treating forms of cancer such as those found in the skin, breast, colon, prostate and gastrointestinal tract by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.
  • Potential Pain Reducer – Studies have shown that Resveratrol can help prevent the breakdown of cartilage within the joints and help prevent inflammation and pain, which can develop into arthritis.
  • Memory and Cognitive Support – Some scientific studies that indicate that consuming red wine, foods or supplements containing Resveratrol can slow down age-related reduction in cognition and memory. Resveratrol shows the ability to protect the brain by blocking proteins which directly contribute to the plaques form on the brain as with Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Improved Insulin Sensitivity –In laboratory studies conducted on mice, researchers found that Resveratrol improved sensitivity to insulin and prevented the development of diabetes.
  • Potential Reducer of Depression and Anxiety – In July of 2019, researchers from the University at Buffalo and Xuzhou Medical University in China recently conducted a joint study which found that Resveratrol has shown potential in helping those who suffer from either depression or anxiety.
    Health food
    According to Dr. Susan Wood, the lead researcher a similar study conducted at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, believes that “there is a growing body of evidence which suggests that increased inflammation plays a role in the development of depression.” Her team concluded that Resveratrol helped to reduce and even block inflammation that can lead to depression and anxiety.

 

 

 

 

Sir Jason Winters International offers Resveratrol 50mg capsule supplements, strength formulated for both men and women. It is recommended that adults take 1-2 capsules daily with a meal. Our Resveratrol supplement, regularly $23.00, is now on sale for $11.50. That’s a savings of 50%! You can save an additional 5% on your order of Resveratrol and get it for $10.93 when you take advantage of our convenient subscription service.

Resources

“The Resveratrol Story” by William Amzallag, M.D., 2011, web.

“Resveratrol” by James Betz, 2013, Smashwords edition.

“Plant Foods and Herbal Sources of Resveratrol,” by Jennifer Burns, Takao Yakota, Hiroshi Ashihara, Michael E. J. Lean, and Alan Crozier, 2002, Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry,

Resveratrol Mechanism” by Ebrahim K. Nadarali, Sharon L. Smith, Patrick Doyle, and Gareth Williams, 2017, Diabetes and Endocrinology Research Unit Department of Medicine, University of Liverpool, England, UK

“Could the Wine Compound Resveratrol Help Manage Depression?” by Hilary Sims, August 15, 2019, Wine Spectator. web.

Resveratrol and Alzheimer’s disease: message in a bottle of red wine and cognition” by Alberto Granzatto and Paolo Zatta, 2014, Frontiers in Aging and Neuroscience, web.

The Importance of a Daily Multivitamin

Today, almost everyone is concerned with their nutritional health. The signs of bad health are all around us and the news talks a lot about diseases and diet. While it’s important to pay more attention to the things we put into our bodies, it’s hard to know if what we are doing is good enough to live a healthy life.

Even if you think that you’re on a sensible, balanced, and healthy diet overall, it’s easy to miss important vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that your body needs. That’s where taking a multivitamin every day fills the gaps.

Is Taking a Daily Vitamin and Mineral Supplement Necessary?

Multivitamin In recent years, there has emerged a great deal of conflicting information as to whether or not taking vitamins and mineral supplements are worth the time or expense. One study may indicate that it doesn’t make any difference at all one’s overall health while others insist that it can reduce the risk of some types of diseases that start becoming a concern as we get older.

In a study conducted by Brigham and Women’s Hospital and the National Cancer Institute working in collaboration, researchers found that those participating in the study were 8% less likely to develop some forms of cancer. Men who participated in the study showed the greatest benefit from taking vitamin and mineral supplements.

Researchers conducting the Brigham Young and NCI study also found that participants were less likely to develop cataracts when taking a multivitamin and mineral supplement.

Dr. Howard Sesso, Associate Professor of Epidemiology at the Harvard School of Public Health, is quoted to have said the following about the subject:

“Multivitamin supplementation is low risk and low cost, and it helps to fill potential gaps in the diet that people might have. These are compelling reasons to consider taking a multivitamin for cancer and eye disease that should be discussed with your physician.”

Of course, it would be great if we could take a pill once a day, every day, and that would be all that was necessary to improve and maintain good health. However, because of how our bodies function, most of the daily vitamin supplements that are available on the market today don’t carry sufficient levels of essential nutrients that will last throughout the entire day that our bodies need. Appropriate levels of calcium, magnesium, Vitamin C, and B Complex can be used up halfway through the day depending on our health and lifestyle.

Where to Start When Considering Taking a Multivitamin

The Importance of a Daily MultivitaminBefore deciding whether including vitamin and mineral supplements to your daily routine is right for you, it’s important to discuss it with your physician or healthcare professional first. You will want to:

  • Be honest with your physician and yourself if your diet might be lacking in any way. Do you follow the recommended daily requirements each day and eating as well as you could be? Or are a few adjustments necessary?
  • Take into consideration your current medical condition and needs before choosing to take any supplement if you are currently taking other medications or have health conditions that may determine what type of multivitamin or herbal supplements might be of benefit.
  • Age and lifestyle matter. Someone who is over the age of 50, for example, will require different nutrients, vitamins, and minerals than a woman who is pregnant. Everyone is different, so determining your body’s specific needs based is best determined when discussed with your doctor first.

At Sir Jason Winters International, we have found that to meet our body’s needs completely it’s important to have a high potency blend multivitamin that is designed to be taken with each meal.

Our Multivitamin and Mineral Formulas are formulated so that when they are taken at mealtime the vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients, your body needs are being replaced on a continual basis. This approach allows the most benefit while keeping up with your body’s natural metabolism.

Sir Jason Winters Multivitamin and Mineral Formula contains 90 tablets that are derived completely from food-based sources. Our proprietary blend consists of 42 different fruits and vegetables, wheatgrass, and spirulina. We’ve also added green tea, red raspberry and grape seed, herbs, and enzymes in our Multivitamin and Mineral Formula which act as powerful antioxidants. This makes it one of the most comprehensive multivitamin and mineral formulas that is available on the market today.

Here at Sir Jason Winters, we are offering our Multivitamin and Mineral Formula at substantial savings. A bottle of 90 tablets that is regularly priced at $24.95 is now being offered for just $12.75! You can save even more on your order when you take part in our convenient subscription service. Save an additional 5% on each bi-weekly or monthly order and give yourself the gift of good health every day.

Daily Vitamin Needs for Women

Women’s Formula Multivitamin.Medicine has long known that the nutritional needs of men and women are vastly different. That is why Sir Jason Winters is proud to offer our Women’s Formula Multivitamin.

This formula formulated specifically for the nutritional needs of women offers sustained release of Vitamin C, Vitamin B-6, magnesium, and zinc. To help women’s bodies break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates and use them effectively, we have included digestive enzymes that can help women’s bodies assimilate and absorb them most effectively. Five tablets taken daily offers the kind of nutritional health specially formulated for women’s bodies.

Sir Jason Winters Women’s Formula Multivitamin regularly priced at $35.00 for 150 tablets, is also now available at real savings and priced at $15.75; or subscribe and save an extra 5% on each order that you place every other week or each month.

Making Vitamin Supplements More Convenient.

Royal Crest VitaminsSir Jason Winters International understands that it in today’s hectic world, it can be a bit of a challenge to remember which vitamins and supplements to take each day. That is why we are especially excited to offer our customers our Royal Crest Vitamins in an easy-to-remember daily packet.

Each supplement within the packet is formulated for sustained release and will meet your body’s needs throughout the day. Our Daily Vitamin Packet offers 128 powerful nutrients and offers a complete hi-potency vitamin and mineral supplementation. In each packet, you receive one capsule or tablet each of:

  • Beta Carotene (Vitamin A)
  • Super Be Complex 25
  • Buffered C-Complex 500
  • Vitamin E Complex 200
  • Bone Support Calcium
  • Nutritional Greens with Lutein
  • Vitamin B-12 500
  • Mineral Complex 500

Sir Jason Winters Royal Crest Vitamin Packs come in a convenient 30-day supply, regularly priced at $27.50, now available for just $13.50! Or you can choose to sign up for a subscription and enjoy additional savings of 5% off of each bi-weekly or monthly order.

Daily Multivitamin

Resources

“The User’s Guide to Vitamins and Minerals” by Jack Challum and Liz Brown, 2002, Turner Publishing Company. Print.

Harvard Health Study: Do Vitamins and Minerals Make you Healthier?

Physicians Health Study, II

Johns Hopkins Medicine and Health Report: Are There Really Any Benefits to Multivitamins?

Colon Cleanse for Good Health

Our ancestors understood that ridding the body of toxins was essential to good health. Both the ancient Greeks and Egyptians taught their communities that eating well and fasting to purify our bodies was essential to living a fulfilled and long life.

Because most modern diets consumed today usually don’t include enough raw fruits and vegetables many people suffer from digestive issues which affect their colon. Instead, we eat food that is highly processed and nutritionally deficient.

Over the last few decades, the idea of various colon cleanses and detox plans have been making headlines and filling timelines on social media claiming all kinds of benefits such as quick weight loss and improved health. But does science back up these long-standing beliefs?

Is a Colon Cleanse Good for You?

“Death begins in the Colon”Dr. Charles A. Pannett, British Medical Association

Why is a dirty colon bad? The belief is that some foods, like undigested meat, stay too long in the body and rot. This creates a buildup of toxins within the digestive system and these toxins can, in turn, affect other systems of the body. This concept is known as autointoxication and can manifest itself as a lack of energy, obesity, and an increased risk of colon and other types of cancers.

In order to deal with these toxins and the problem of undigested food, practices like fasting, colon cleansing, and proper diet were recommended. However, these practices have fallen by the wayside and many of our modern health problems stem from wrong diet and its effects.

When the diet is too off, it may be necessary to clean out the colon in order to return to full health. Some who have had cleanses report having lost weight, having an increased sense of mental alertness, and a more positive outlook.

While fasting may not be a regular part of modern daily life, it is still important to drink enough pure water, get plenty of exercise, and include fiber in our diet. Consuming both soluble and insoluble fiber can assist in our body’s elimination process, preventing constipation and other diseases associated with the colon. These diseases include diverticulitis and colorectal cancer.

Precautions

There is a lot of hype surrounding cleansing or detoxification programs by social media celebrities promising miraculous results, but not all are created equal. Some can be unnecessarily expensive while others can be downright dangerous.

Before undertaking any new practice, it’s a good idea to touch base with your doctor. He or she will be able to give you good advice before you begin any cleanse or similar health regimen.

As a general first step, it is extremely important to consider what you put into your body. Stop eating foods that are known to cause autointoxication. Limit consumption of red meat, alcohol, and processed foods. It is also a good idea for men and women over the age of 50 to receive regular colon cancer screenings.

Increasing Fiber With Psyllium

Colon Cleanser/ Fiber Supplement

One of the best sources of dietary fiber that is completely natural comes in the form of powdered psyllium husk. This natural dietary powder comes from the seed husks of a plant from the Plantago or Plaintain family. Psyllium is also known by the botanical name of Plantago ovata.

Psyllium seed husk powder swells between 40-60 times its weight when water or other liquid is added. The psyllium will bind itself to the fecal matter as it moves through the body’s intestinal tract, causing it to contract as it absorbs water and waste matter along the way. By consuming psyllium husk powder, it makes it easier for the body to have regular bowel movements.

Plus, psyllium is indigestible to humans but is digestible to friendly bacteria in our bodies. Thus it makes an excellent prebiotic food source.

At Sir Jason Winters International, we offer a colon cleanse product that contains only 100% pure, whole psyllium husk powder. Our Colon Cleanse/Fiber Supplement is complete and non-irritating, and it contains no added sugar, color, or other artificial ingredients.

Because it contains nothing else than pure psyllium husk powder, this makes it completely safe and natural. When you take it with a glass of water or other favorite beverage, the psyllium seed husk will absorb large amounts of water. This absorption creates a softening and lubricating within the intestinal tract and helps the body to eliminate toxins gently and effectively.

Psyllium does not act as a laxative but rather like a stool softener because it is considered a form of fiber. Medical researchers and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration agree that foods which are rich in viscous dietary fiber have been shown to reduce cholesterol and in turn, can help to improve overall heart health.

An added benefit showing promise is that fiber sources like psyllium seed husk powder can be useful in helping normalize blood sugar levels within the body. It does this by limiting the spikes which occur after a meal high in carbohydrates is consumed.

To use the product, start with at least 12 ounces of cold water or your favorite beverage and add about ½ teaspoon up to as much as one heaping tablespoon of Sir Jason Winters Colon Cleanse/Fiber Supplement and stir it in. Psyllium husk powder and can be taken once or twice each day depending on your body’s needs.

Some find that psyllium husk powder has a somewhat pleasant to neutral taste, while others report not liking the taste at all and find that they need to add a bit of raw honey, lemon, stevia or raw sugar to make it more palatable. It’s a good idea to drink as soon as possible after adding water because it will “thicken” the water. Leaving it to sit for too long can cause it to gel.

An easy way to remember to take your psyllium supplement drink is to take it just before bedtime or at mid-day. Some natural health practitioners recommend avoiding consuming psyllium in the morning to avoid feeling bloated.

Right now, Sir Jason Winters is offering our Colon Cleanser/ Fiber Supplement in a 12 ounce (340 grams) canister that is regularly priced at $22.50 for just 11.50! That’s approximately 48 servings per container at just 24 cents per serving! If you want to save even more, you can save an additional 5% every time you order bi-weekly or monthly by taking advantage of Sir Jason Winters’ supplement subscription service.

Give yourself the gift of improved digestion today with Sir Jason Winters supplements!

Resources

“Egyptian Medicine in the Day of the Pharaohs” by Nabil I. Ebeid,1999. General Egyptian Book Organization Press, Cairo. Print.

“Back to Eden” by Jethro Kloss., 1939, Woodbridge Press Publishing. Print.

“Listen to your Colon: The Complete Natural Healing Guide” by Jini Patel Thompson, 2001, Book Baby Publishing, Print.

“A British Medical Association Lecture on Cancer of the Colon “– by Charles A. Pannett, presented before the Isle of Thanet Division of the BMA, October 11th, 1925.

Sir Raymond’s Japan Tour 2019

Star-Member Summit

Sir Raymond Winters was a surprise guest at this year’s Star-Member Summit in Japan! He was thrilled to give the honorary speech and toast to the Star Members of EOS, our exclusive agents for JW Tea in Japan. Here is a video and some pictures from the event!

Tea-is-Good-for-Your-Body-Mind-1

Tea is Good for Your Body & Mind

“It tempers the spirits and harmonizes the mind,
dispels lassitude and relieves fatigue,
awakens thought and prevents drowsiness,
lightens and refreshes the body,
and clears the perceptive faculties.” – Lu Yu

There are few things in the world quite as comforting or relaxing as a cup of tea. Tea has the ability to uplift the mood and focus the mind like nothing else. At Sir Jason Winters International, we believe this wholeheartedly, but there’s also plenty of scientific research that demonstrates the reasons why tea is both relaxing and healthy to our minds and bodies.

Tea for the Mind

Tea is Good for Your Body & MindA study conducted by the University College London found that drinking black tea can lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Scientists found that the participants experienced a 47% lower level of cortisol just 50 minutes after consuming black tea. Blood pressure also decreased.

In a similar study performed by psycho-pharmacologist Andrew Scholey of Swinburne University of Technology in Melbourne, Australia, researchers also found that the catechins and antioxidants such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) present in green tea lowered the risk of developing dementia or depression in those who consumed at least one cup daily by as much as 21%.

According to Scholey, “Tea is calming, but alerting at the same time.” He believes that tea consumption can help those with these debilitating diseases and that tea consumption has, “…enormous implications for preventative health.”

Tea is Good for Your Body & MindIn 2015 the Lundbeck Foundation presented a paper at the International Conference on Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease which found that drinking green tea several times each week greatly lessened the chance of the development of both diseases and increased cognition.

Recent research has also found that the widespread use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs, as well as prescription and over the counter drugs used to treat acid reflux, have been directly linked to Alzheimer’s Disease and other health concerns. Doing something as simple and beneficial, such as drinking a cup of green tea each day has many potential benefits for overall brain health.

Tea’s Positive Effects on the Body

The antioxidants in tea can help your brain function better and also help ensure overall good health in the body. For thousands of years, tea has been considered a type of food-medicine that relaxes the body and promotes good health from within.

Tea is Good for Your Body & MindTea and Your HeartThe Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that more than half a million (610,000 men and women in the U.S. die of the heart-related disease annually. Researchers have found that drinking green tea can potentially reduce the risk of heart disease every day. EGCG and other antioxidant compounds which have been found within the tea plant act as vasodilators, which make your blood vessels more elastic and expands their capacity to pump blood throughout the body.

Recent studies conducted at Harvard University have found that by consuming green tea, this expansion of the blood vessels can reduce the chance of formation of blood clots in blood vessels and arteries and thus reducing the chance of developing heart disease.

©“Photo by (AnastasiaDudka).”

©“Photo by (AnastasiaDudka).”

Tea and Liver Function – Scientists have found that the antioxidants found within green and Oolong tea can reduce and reverse some forms of liver disease. Green tea acts as a block for fat absorption within the liver and improves overall antioxidant function. Combined with a low-fat diet and regular aerobic exercise and reduction in the use of alcohol, green tea can help to create a leaner liver.

Lead researcher of a study conducted by the University of Connecticut, Richard Bruno said in a recent interview that in order to be of benefit for improved liver function, it’s important to regularly consume brewed green tea rather than taking a green tea supplement.

Lessening the Onset of Diabetes – Green tea has shown that it can aid in the reduction of some forms of diabetes and assist in the regulation of both high and low glucose levels by reducing insulin sensitivity. It has also shown great promise in regulating Type II diabetes by improving and regulating glucose levels.

Tea is Good for Your Body & MindStrengthening Bones and Teeth – The antioxidant properties found in green tea also have been found to strengthen bones and help prevent tooth decay and loss. In China, practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and more modern researchers have found that green and black teas can both help prevent the onset of osteoporosis and stimulate the growth of bone tissue and stem the loss of bone density. The antioxidant and antibacterial properties found within the Camellia sinensis plant can also fight and in some cases potentially halt tooth decay and receding gums. In turn, this prevention of dental disease also can prevent the development of heart disease.

Tea to Reduce Cancer Risk – A Chinese study conducted in 2016 indicates that the EGCG found in green tea seems to indicate reduced incidences of prostate cancer in men. Japanese scientists have also conducted similar research which agrees with the data found in the Chinese study and also shows a potential reduction in other forms of cancer such as breast, bone, and colorectal cancers.

Tea for Weight Loss and Anti-Aging?

Tea is Good for Your Body & MindDrinking tea has long had the reputation of suppressing the appetite and helping to stave off the pangs of hunger between meals. The antioxidants in green tea have shown the potential to metabolize and break down fat, especially during regular exercise. One study found that drinking green tea helped the participants in the research to burn more calories by boosting their metabolism.

The same antioxidants found in green tea can fight free radicals in the body. Pollution in our environments such as cigarette smoke and other poisons around us can potentially damage our bodies. The antioxidants found within green tea help boost immunity and have shown that they can potentially reduce the aging effects that we face every day, causing our skin to have less elasticity and show signs of aging such as expression lines and wrinkles.

Using green tea on the skin as a rinse as well as drinking it as a beverage can smooth the skin and prevent premature aging. It does this by improving the collagen through the oligomeric proanthocyanidins found within the tea.

The research is clear. Drinking green or black tea regularly has a host of preventative health benefits. It’s so simple to brew a cup, why wouldn’t you have a cup or three every day? Here’s to your body and mind.

Resources:

Cutler, Nicole. “Green Tea Promotes a Lean Liver.” LiverSupport.com, 16 Oct. 2018, www.liversupport.com/green-tea-promotes-a-lean-liver/.
Gilbert, Natasha. “The Science of Tea’s Mood-altering Magic.” Nature News. Nature Publishing Group, 06 Feb. 2019. Web. 16 May 2019.
Lam, Kam Chuen., Kai Sin. Lam, and Tin Yu. Lam. The Way of Tea: The Sublime Art of Oriental Tea Drinking. Hauppauge, NY: Barron’s Educational Series, 2002. Print.
Peltier, Warren. The Ancient Art of Tea: Wisdom from the Old Chinese Tea Masters. Rutland, VT: Tuttle, 2011. Print.
Zak, Victoria. 20,000 Secrets of Tea: The Most Effective Ways to Benefit from Nature’s Healing Herbs. New York: Bantam, 2000. Print.

The Fascinating History of Tea

The Fascinating History of Tea

A Timeline Of Tea

Did you know that there is a tea tree located in the Yunnan Province of China that is estimated to be more than 1700 years old?

The history of tea is an ancient and fascinating one and deeply tied to the history of humanity. How did it all begin?

Here is a timeline to show how tea made its way from ancient China to the beverage we now enjoy today.

Tea’s Beginnings

2737 B.C.E. – According to legend, tea as a beverage was first discovered by Emperor Shen Nong when a couple of leaves fell into some water that Shen Nong was boiling. The Emperor felt refreshed after drinking the beverage and decided to include it in his daily diet.

Tea remained exclusively in China for 3,000 years. The stimulating properties of tea were also noted by Buddhist monks who used it to sharpen their awareness during meditation. Tea became the inspiration of poetry, art, and became regarded as one of the central pillars of Chinese culture. James Norwood said that tea inspires, ‘Wakeful tranquility’.

9th Century – It was a Buddhist monk who brought some tea seeds from China to his home in Japan. Building on what he and his fellow monks learned from the Chinese, the Japanese also began to incorporate tea as part of cultural life. Over time they put together elaborate tea ceremonies that were later referred to as Chado or The Way of Tea.

16th Century – Tea continued to migrate to the rest of the world. It traveled throughout Asia and the Middle East via the trade routes. It was finally brought to Europe in the Seventeenth Century by Portuguese and Dutch Merchants who had competing interests in trade with China, Japan, and the East.

1600 – Queen Elizabeth calls for the formation of the British East India Company. This state-run organization became a powerful trading cartel in its own right.

1664 – Tea is introduced in England. King Charles wife came from Portugal and while visiting family in Spain, she became enamored of tea. During this period, aristocrats and nobility were the only ones who could afford tea.

 History of Tea18th Century – Tea prices continued to soar. The price of tea was prohibitive that by 1706, the tea tax reached 119 %! Tea had become so precious that it was kept in locked chests inside the homes of the upper classes and aristocracy. It was the high price that created an almost insatiable demand and caused a black market for tea.

By the latter half of the 1700s, it is estimated that more than half of the tea that was consumed in England by the 1770s was obtained illegally or considered contraband. Because of the high price fetched on the black market, tea was cut with twigs and leaves and other unpalatable fillers such sheep manure and also other more toxic ingredients containing lead.

1773 – The high taxation on tea also played a role in causing the American Colonies to rebel against the British Crown. In November and December of that year, three ships laden with 342 chests of tea sailed into Boston Harbor.
By that time, the issue of taxation without representation had by that time reached a boiling point. The citizens of Boston refused to let the vessels unload their cargo. On December 16a group of 30 to 60 men disguised as members of the Mohawk Nation of Indians dumped the tea into Boston Harbor.

1776 – That fateful night three years earlier was now known as the Boston Tea Party. This event was a key turning point with the Americas declaring their independence from England and the beginning of the Revolutionary War.

1784 – By this time, the colonists in the Americas had largely renounced tea. This is one of the main reasons why coffee became and is still the most popular drink in the U.S. It was this year that British Prime Minister, William Pitt, greatly lowered taxes on tea so that it became affordable to everyone.

1799 – The first tea plants for cultivation were brought to US shores in from China by French botanist, André Michaux. Monsieur Michaux was appointed by Louis XVI as Royal Botanist. Though he was sent to the Americas in 1785 and coffee remained a favorite in the New World, the French decided that the Americas might present further opportunities to grow tea for export.
In spite of the setbacks in the American colonies, the appetite for tea in England and the rest of Europe, continued unabated. Approximately one-third of all East India Trading Company profits would be derived from the tea trade.

Fascinating History of Tea19th Century – By this time, tea was the third largest commodity in trade around the globe, falling just behind iron ore and cotton. During this period, China still maintained a global monopoly offering tea to the rest of the world. In trade, the Chinese would only sell tea in exchange for silver. This demand created a trade imbalance with the British Empire.

1840 – Afternoon tea was introduced by the Duchess of Bedford as a midday meal to help tide her over until dinner, which was usually late in the evening.

1839 – 1842 and 1856 – 1860 – Historians specializing in the period concur that the Opium Wars began in response to a tea trade imbalance. Britain began to import large quantities of opium imported from India and Afghanistan. The demand for tea was so great that Britain was willing to wage war twice on China to be able to have the silver they needed to purchase more tea.
The wars led the British to consider ways to bring the cultivation of tea outside of China. The English expanded their tea operations in countries such as India, Ceylon, and parts of the African continent. Vast swaths of forest lands were cleared to create large tea plantations that were staffed with imported and largely indentured labor. These operations greatly resembled the slave plantations of the American South.

1888 – The tea trade coming out of plantations in the Assam region had now surpassed that of China.

1904 – Iced Tea is first introduced in the US to attendees of the World’s Fair in St. Louis, Missouri. Iced tea now makes up the majority of tea consumed in the United States.

1908 – Tea merchant Thomas Sullivan sent samples of his tea for customers to try in silk bags. Tea drinkers found that rather than measure out spoons of tea, it was easier to simply place the bag in a teapot or cup and let the tea leaves steep in the hot water.

1920 – Silk bags gave way to cotton gauze bags, and then by 1927, tea was placed in the paper tea bags that we have come to know and enjoy today.

Cup of tea21st Century – In the U.S., 60% of all tea consumed, whether hot or cold, is brewed via a tea bag. While black, green and Oolong varieties of tea are still the top choices of tea around the world, currently, herbal and flavored teas account to one-third of the tea market in the U.S.

Today, it is estimated that 1.5 trillion cups of tea are consumed globally per year. Americans consume some 50 billion servings of tea per year. As of 2016, an estimated six billion pounds of tea are produced each year. People around the world are drinking tea more than ever. It truly is the drink of choice.

Resources:

“The Way of Tea” by Master Lam Kam Chuyen, Lam Kai Sin and Lam Tin Yu, 2002, Barron’s Educational Series, NY
“The Story of Tea: A Cultural History and Drinking Guide” by Mary Lou Heiss, 2007, Ten Speed Press
“The History of Tea and Tea Times: As Seen in Books” by Claire Hopley, 2019, Amazon Digital Services
“Tea – A Journey in Time: Pioneering and Trails in the Jungle” by John Weatherstone, 2008, JJG Publishing, London

Cool Off This Summer with Sir Jason Winters Teas

Cool Off This Summer with Sir Jason Winters Teas

Tea is one of the most versatile drinks you can find anywhere. James Norwood Pratt author of “The New Tea Lover’s Treasury, advises “If you are cold, tea will warm you. If you are warm, tea will cool you. If you’re excited, it will soothe you. If you are lethargic, it will stimulate you.” During the summer months drinking cold iced tea has long been a preferred way to quench heat and thirst.

Iced Tea’s Beginnings

It is interesting to note that iced tea as a summertime beverage really didn’t become popular in the United States until 1904 where it made its debut at the World’s Fair. During the fair, tea plantation owner, Richard Blechynden, wanted to introduce fairgoers to his tea by giving away samples. Because the weather that particular summer was both hot and humid, no one wanted anything hot to drink.

Blechynden discovered that by simply adding ice to his brewed tea, he could change all of that. People flocked to his exhibit to try iced tea. The newly “invented” iced tea became such a sensation that summer that those in attendance at the World’s Fair consumed approximately 880 gallons! Since its debut in the early days of the 20th Century, iced tea has become the go-to drink every summer.

In a previous article, we discussed some of the benefits of both hot and cold tea and which is better tasting and better for you. For some, taste is directly related to temperature. Drinking iced tea can make it more difficult for our taste buds to determine the subtle aromas and flavors in the way that they do when tea is served hot. By adding lemon, mint or fruit, or natural sweeteners like honey or stevia, the taste of cold tea can be enhanced and made tasty in even more ways than when served hot.

Here are some refreshing and delicious ideas to incorporate into your Sir Jason Winters teas to make a cold summertime drink that’s sure to hit the spot on a hot day!

Sir Jason Winters Iced Sun Tea

Many people choose to use the power of the sun to brew their summertime teas. Most of our Sir Jason Winters International teas can be used to make sun tea. You will need a gallon glass jar with a lid. Fill the jar with filtered water, add 8 -10 tea bags, put the lid on the jar and let the tea steep in a sunny spot for 3-5 hours or until it reaches the desired strength. Remove the tea bags and pour over ice, or refrigerate. You may also wish to add lemon or sweeten your tea with honey or stevia. Having a batch of your cold tea already made and on hand makes the days of summer super easy.

Summertime Sage Tea

A delicious way to sail into summer is by using Sir Jason Winters Original Formula Tea with Sage. Our blend of Red Clover, Indian Sage, and Herbalene provides a healthful and delicious drink when poured over ice. You only need two teaspoons per pint of our loose tea or one tea bag per pint. Brew hot and let cool or use it as a sun tea. Add freshly picked sage leaves from the garden, some honey or stevia to sweeten and pour over ice as a better alternative to sugary soft drinks during the summer months or any time of year!

Peach Blush

One of the most beloved summertime fruits is peach. There is just something special about the aromatic sweetness of peach when it’s paired with ice and the cool taste of mint.
Simply brew a cup of Sir Jason Winters Peach Flavored Tea and pour it over a tall glass of ice. Whether you choose either the sweetened or unsweetened peach tea, garnish it with mint leaves, some fresh slices of peach, and you can make this easy drink extraordinary. You can add spice to this tea by adding some freshly peeled slices of ginger root. For a relaxing version to help you wind down after a long day, add a sprig of lavender or chamomile flowers to your tea.

Super Cooling Green Tea

Green tea is packed with lots of health benefits, including antioxidants. Our Sir Jason Winters Green Herbal Tea is created from Chao Phraya green tea leaves, red clover tops, Indian Sage Leaf and our special spice, Herbalene®. Simply brew a cup to taste, then pour over approximately 2 cups of crushed ice, a handful of bruised mint leaves. Add a slice of lime and honey or stevia to taste, and you’ll have the perfect hot weather pick-me-up! For a creamy version of this tea, add some half-and-half to your tea and turn it into a cooling latte.

Red Raspberry Refresher Tea

Another favorite summertime fruit is raspberries. Brew a cup or even a pot of our Sir Jason Winters Raspberry Flavored Tea, or our Sir Jason Winters Raspberry Flavored Tea with Stevia. In a glass, muddle some fresh raspberries by crushing the fruit and a little bit of sugar on the bottom. Add approximately 2 cups of cubed or crushed ice and add the raspberry tea and further sweeten to taste. Add some freshly picked, bruised mint leaves and maybe even a cinnamon stick to make the raspberry flavor really come through. You may also consider adding a bit of milk or half and half, some blueberries or strawberries as well and turn your iced tea into a cooling dessert drink.

When it comes to iced tea, the possibilities are almost endless. After trying some of these summertime ice tea recipes, you may even decide to create some of your own. If you do, be sure to drop us a note and share them with us!

Resources

“The Everything Healthy Tea Book” by Babette Donaldson, 2014, Everything Publishing, Avon, MA.
“Martha Bakes: Green Tea Episode” Martha Stewart, broadcast, PBS, November 18, 2015. Broadcast.
“18 Iced Tea Recipes That Will Rock Your Summer” by JenMarie Villanueva, web.
“20,000 Secrets of Tea: The Most Effective Ways to Benefit from Nature’s Healing Herbs” by Victoria Zak, 1999, Dell Publishing, New York, NY

Tea Traditions Around the World

Tea Traditions Around the World

Tea time has been a hallmark of civilization since ancient times. All around the world people take small breaks during the day to relax and recharge. There are a host of tea rituals and techniques that have sprouted up, as tea is used medicinally and for pleasure. Here are some of those different traditions from around the world.

China

Tea Traditions Around the World - ChinaThere is a famous Chinese proverb that says: there are as many teas in the world as there are people within it. All true tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant, which is indigenous to the Yunnan area of China, the birthplace of tea. Some historians estimate that tea has been in use since at least 2,000 BCE. One legend says tea was first discovered by Emperor Shen Nong after some leaves from a tea bush blew into the pot of water he was boiling.

The art and cultivation of tea in China enjoyed more widespread fame during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) when tea houses were being established around the country and trade with the West was just getting started. China created a more ritualized form of taking tea called a gong fu tea service, which is still popular today.

Japan

Tea Traditions Around the World - JapanNo discussion of tea traditions would be complete without discussing the Japanese tea ceremony. Tea consumption in Japan dates back to Emperor Saga when a Buddhist monk convinced him to try a bowl of tea. The real credit for the Japanese tea ceremony or chanoyu or ‘way of tea’ that we know today belongs to Murato and Sen No Rikyu. During the 16th Century, these two men created many of the rituals, codes, and customs which incorporate the ideals of harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.
Within the tea ceremony are ritual preparations of guests leaving all weapons at the door and bowing to go through a low door, symbolizing humility. The Japanese tea ceremony uses a powdered form of green tea known as Matcha. It is added to boiling water, stirred with a bamboo whisk until frothy, and drunk.

India

Tea Traditions Around the World - IndiaThe subcontinent of India is the second largest tea producer in the world. In India, tea is referred to as chai. Here it is more common to drink tea that has spices, herbs, sugar, and milk added to it. This is often slowly heated and stirred constantly to make Masala chai. India is the place where Darjeeling and Oolong tea is grown in the Himalayas while Assam tea is cultivated in the Assam Valley for which it is named; they are exported all around the world.

Tibet

Tea Traditions Around the World - TibetTea was introduced into Tibet through caravans traveling from China during the 9th Century. The Tibetan lamas shared the tea they were enjoying with devotees visiting temples until it spread throughout the country. Tea is finely ground and added to a teapot called a gugurchai. It is common to add either yak milk or butter to this drink and served with a meal consisting of a bean or a barley pancake known as tsampa.

Russia

Tea Traditions Around the World - RussiaAs with India and Tibet, early Chinese traders brought tea to the Steppes of Russia at around the 17th Century. In Russia, tea is served in a samovar. Tea was rather expensive and mostly consumed by noble or upper-class Russians until the completion of the Siberian Railroad in the late 19th Century, it was then that all classes had excess to tea. Russians generally prefer their tea on the stronger side and brewed with lots of citrus fruits with the addition of either sugar or honey. Tea here is served in metal ringed glasses and often covered to keep the delicate taste and aromas intact.

Morocco and the Middle East

Tea Traditions Around the World - MoroccoAfter spreading to Russia, tea continued its worldwide expansion into the Middle East; Morocco, Egypt, and the Arabian Peninsula. While you may not think hot drinks are welcome in desert climates, adding mint leaves and sugar creates a beverage that is both cooling and refreshing, even in the desert. It is a point of pride for hosts to serve tea in beautiful glasses or cups edged in gold alongside sweet treats like baklava or sweet pastries.

England

Tea Traditions Around the World - EnglandThe establishment of the Dutch East India Company by the British Empire in the 17th Century effectively spread tea’s influence to England and across Europe. The English created their own specific tea traditions by adding milk and sugar and serving it alongside various finger foods as a repast between the afternoon meal and dinner at 8:00. From the 19th Century to the present day, England is only second to China when it comes to tea consumption.

France

Tea Traditions Around the World - FranceAcross the English Channel, the French also drink tea. Traditionally, they forego the addition of milk in their tea. In Paris, rather than taking tea at home, it is more common to go have tea out at a luxury hotel, tea salon, or sidewalk café where each venue is solely dedicated to making and serving tea. The city of lights is considered one of the most elegant places in all of Europe to enjoy the pleasantry of tea. Tea in France is served with shortbreads, Madeleine cakes, or elegant pastries and is leisurely savored and enjoyed with good friends and conversation.

United States

Tea Traditions Around the World - USALike other parts of the British Empire in the 18th Century, tea was imported to the new world. When the colonists considered the tea tax to be excessive, they revolted by dressing up as Natives and tossing more than 300 chests of tea off the sides of the ships. This event, known as the Boston Tea Party, caused Americans to trade directly with China to satisfy their appetite for tea.

It was at the World’s Fair, held from April to December of 1904 in St. Louis, Missouri where the concept of iced tea first made its debut. Today, iced tea remains popular throughout the country. Whether sugar or lemon is added seems to be regional. In the eastern, northern and western parts of the country, iced tea is most often served unsweetened. In the southern states, residents prefer to add both sugar and lemon to their tea.

How do these tea traditions start? They start in the homes of tea lovers like yourself. Bring the joy of tea into your home by enjoying some Sir Jason Winters tea.

Resources

“The Tea Box” by Giles Brochard, 2001, Barron’s Educational Series, Hauppauge, NY
“The Way of Tea” by Master Lam Kam Chuyen, Lam Kai Sin and Lam Tin Yu, 2002, Barron’s Educational Series, NY
“The Story of Tea: A Cultural History and Drinking Guide” by Mary Lou Heiss, 2007, Ten Speed Press
“Tea – A Journey in Time” by John Weatherstone, 2008, JJG Publishing, London.

Making Afternoon Tea Something Special

Making Afternoon Tea Something Special

Spring is the time of year where thoughts turn to life’s simple pleasures. One of those simple yet elegant pleasures is the tradition of taking tea. Afternoon tea is a wonderful way to relax during the day and catch up with family and friends. It doesn’t matter if it’s high tea or something a little more intimate, here are some things that can make your tea time extra special.

Traditional Tea Time

Since the 18th Century, tea time has been a tradition in England; one that has spread to every part of the British Empire and beyond. Tea time in England is served between 3:00 and 5:00 p.m. and provides an appreciated break from the day and is a welcome repast before traditional dinner at 8 p.m.

What You Will Need

Even if you weren’t fortunate enough to inherit your grandmother’s antique silver tray, any large tray will do. Cover this with a light linen cloth or paper doily to line the inside.

  • A china or earthenware teapot is perfect for holding hot water straight from the kettle.
  • Add a milk jug or pitcher
  • A sugar bowl
  • Cups and saucers – mugs will do in a pinch
  • A tea strainer
  • A small dish of lemon wedges (for those who prefer a bit of citrus in their tea)
  • Loose leaf or bagged tea

Traditional Sweet Scones

Making Afternoon Tea Something SpecialWhen you think of a classic tea, you might picture the iconic tea and scones combination. You can purchase them at your local bakery, but there is something satisfying about making your own to serve. Scones are fairly easy and fuss-free so you can make them yourself without much trouble. Remember, scones are best served on the day that they’re made.

You will need the following ingredients:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 Tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
8 Tablespoons cold unsalted butter
¼ cup granulated pure cane sugar
2/3 cup milk

Preheat your oven to 425 °F (220 Celsius). Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Cut in the 8 tablespoons of cold butter with a pastry cutter or mix with your fingers until the consistency is fine and crumbly.

Add sugar to the mixture and recombine. Add milk and blend with a wooden spoon. Lightly flour a cutting board or pastry stone and knead into a ball. Roll the ball out with a rolling pin or press down with your hands until the dough is flat and about 1 ½ inches thick.

You may cut these into wedges, use a pastry cutter, or shape them into 2 -3 inch balls and place on a well-greased baking sheet or one lined with non-stick parchment paper.

Bake on the top shelf of the oven for 8- 10 minutes or until they are well-risen and the tops are golden brown.

Although hot scones are delicious, you will want to leave them on a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Serve your scones with butter, Devonshire clotted cream, and fruit preserves on the side.

Cucumber Sandwiches

Making Afternoon Tea Something Special - Cucumber SandwichesCucumber sandwiches are best started the day before your tea. Cucumbers have a high water content so slice them and lay them out on a baking sheet lined and covered with paper towels the night before. Place them in the refrigerator so that they don’t wilt. This will make them the perfect consistency for your tea party.

What would cucumber sandwiches be without the perfect dill spread? This recipe is also best assembled the night before and taken out about 30 minutes before you are ready to assemble your sandwiches.

You will need:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup chopped fresh dill
2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon peel for zest
1/4 teaspoon salt
A pinch of black pepper

Assemble your cucumber sandwiches on high-quality sandwich bread. Cut into finger-sized rectangles, or use cookie cutters to shape them to fit the theme of your party.

Open-Faced Salmon Tea Sandwiches

8 ounces smoked, thinly sliced salmon
4 slices or approximately ½ loaf Pumpernickel bread
5 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ teaspoon horseradish
1 teaspoon lemon zest
A pinch of black pepper

Keep the salmon refrigerated until you are ready to assemble the sandwiches. Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature. In a bowl combine the cream cheese, horseradish, lemon zest, and pepper until smooth.

(Note: If you happen to have any remaining cream cheese and dill mixture leftover from the cucumber sandwiches, you may decide to substitute this mixture instead.

On a work surface, lay out the slices of bread and spread approximately 2 tablespoons of spread to cover the bread. Top each piece with smoked salmon. Using a round biscuit or cookie cutter, cut out 3-4 finger sandwiches from each slice. Add a dollop of the cream cheese mixture to each of the small finger sandwiches and garnish with watercress, cilantro, and a pinch of fresh, roughly chopped dill or chives.

Now all that’s left is to arrange the setting before your guests arrive. Cover the table with a cloth and arrange your tea trays, plates, or even tea tier to display scones, cakes, and assorted finger foods for the occasion. If you don’t have a tea tier; don’t sweat it! Just use separate plates to serve an assortment of sandwiches, scones, pastries, cakes, cookies, or even dunking biscuits for your guests. Remember to put out the milk and sugar beforehand. Make sure the milk is cold but not so cold it cools the tea too quickly. You can spruce up your table by adding a centerpiece of fresh cut flowers; gather them from your own garden on the morning of your tea party, or pop to the market to pick out a bouquet.

There are endless possibilities for making afternoon tea time something special for your family and close friends. The key is to relax, share good conversation, and simply enjoy the day. But if you want your tea time to be extra-special, pair your afternoon tea session with some Sir Jason Winters tea. Tea parties aren’t just for standard teas!

Resources:

“Afternoon Tea” by Holly Sinclair, 2012, Web Holidays, Inc. Web.
“Tea at Downton Abbey” by Elizabeth Fellow, 2014, Create Space Publishing, Seattle, WA.
“Afternoon Tea and Cakes: Enjoy an Afternoon of Luxury at Home” by Linda Gray, 2017, Healthy Living Books

Making the Transition from Coffee to Tea

Making the Transition from Coffee to Tea

Here at Sir Jason Winters International, we are more than a little passionate about tea. Many people enjoy a cup of Joe first thing in the morning and have come to depend on it to give them the quick start needed for each day. Recent studies have shown that coffee has some similar health benefits to those derived from drinking tea, like the ability to reduce the risk of diabetes and promote weight loss.

However, there are even more benefits with drinking tea that coffee just can’t compete with. While coffee can be prepared a couple of different ways, there are even more varieties and blends to be discovered through drinking tea! You may even notice some additional benefits:

  • Staying awake longer – The levels of caffeine present in tea are slightly lower than that in coffee. Though this might not seem ideal at first, the caffeine in tea actually lasts longer in the body, allowing you to stay awake for extended periods of time without that jittery feeling.
  • Tea can improve your smile – It is well known that coffee can leave teeth stained over time. Instead, try drinking green tea as it can strengthen your teeth without the stain.
  • Tea has many health benefits including lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels and even promoting weight loss.
  • Tea has anti-aging properties. You will get a better night’s sleep and will likely see your skin start to become clearer. This is because tea contains antioxidants in the form of polyphenols that fight off free radicals in the body. These free radicals cause damage to the cells in your body and can age you. Many scientific studies have shown that regular consumption of green tea discourages the breakdown of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine which is important for memory function and to stave off symptoms accompanying Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Tea preparation takes less time. You don’t need an automatic drip coffee maker, a pod machine or anything else to prepare tea. All you need are tea leaves and some hot water, giving you that extra time to relax.

Climate Change and Coffee

In 2017, the National Geographic Society reported that coffee is extremely vulnerable to climate change. There are some countries dependent on the continued stability of the coffee market for their survival while other countries have recovered their losses by branching out with different crops. Climate scientists have found that many tropical regions where coffee is traditionally grown like Africa or Central and South America are now suffering from severe stresses that are directly attributed to climate change. Deforestation, disease, pests, and rising global temperatures are affecting how 70 out of the 124 wild coffee species may actually be facing extinction around the world. These wild species make up 60% of the coffee that is consumed today.

 

If you have ever thought about making the switch from coffee to tea, here is some advice to help you make the change.

  1. Start off slowly – When transitioning, don’t do it all at once. Start slowly by incrementally lowering the amount of coffee you drink each day. Many people who give up coffee cold turkey can experience headaches due to the lack of caffeine levels their body has grown accustomed to.
  2. Coffee and Tea are Different – Understand that the amount of caffeine received from a cup of coffee and a cup of tea is different. Brewed coffee can contain almost twice as much caffeine than tea. If it’s the taste you can’t get over, be aware that there aren’t many teas that match the taste of your usual cup of java. There are some considered “coffee flavored”, but those don’t always measure up.One trick to keep in mind if you prefer drinking your coffee black is starting off with a black tea like Earl Grey. This black, full-bodied tea is often blended and cured with bergamot that showcases a wonderfully fresh taste and aroma. Other tasty black teas include Oolong, Kamba, Assam, and the English and Irish breakfast teas.Those of you who like to add milk, cream or sweeteners to their coffee might consider brewing a cup of masala chai, a delicious alternative. There are also teas that have added ingredients like vanilla and other spices that ensure you’ll never look back.
  3. Gradually increase the amount of tea you drink – As you are decreasing the amount of coffee you drink each day, replace it with tea instead. After drinking coffee for several years or your whole adult life, this might take a little longer than expected. Sticking with black teas or spiced teas over a longer stretch of time can get you used to the difference in flavor instead of jumping straight into green, white or other lighter teas that have softer flavors and might leave you feeling unsatisfied. Japanese Matcha tea has both the amplified health benefits of green tea and a taste that many have come to love better than coffee.
  4. Try a variety of different teas – A great way to experience the joys and variety of tea is by visiting a tea shop. A tea shop will let you check out the various blends of tea before they are brewed as well as smell, and even taste test them. Some natural food stores and cooperatives also carry varieties of teas in bulk which can help your exploration into these new exotic flavors. 

If you don’t want to commit to a big bulk order right away, consider purchasing a tea sampler; this can save you money and broaden your horizons without multiple trips to the store. Sir Jason Winters carries its own tea samplers in the form of our Four Tea Variety Packs and our Special Edition Tea Chest.

Making the switch from coffee to tea may seem daunting at first. Once you have succeeded in making the switch, you may find that your palate is more sophisticated and can pick up tastes and aromas that you never noticed before. Being able to discern the various types of teas, as well as the herbs and spices within the almost endless variety of possible blends will only add to the enjoyment.

Resources:

“The Tea Box” by Giles Brochard, 2001, Barron’s Educational Series, Happauge, NY
“The Everything Healthy Tea Book” by Babette Donaldson, 2014, Everything Publishing, Avon, MA.
“Love Coffee? It’s Another Reason to Care About Climate Change” by Nicholas Kusnetz, Inside Climate News, January 2019. web.
“A Drying Climate Threatens Africa’s Coffee, But Hope Remains” by Tim McDonnell, National Geographic Magazine, August 2017, web.