What is Cancer?

What is Cancer? 

According to the National Cancer Institute, cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. Approximately one-half of all men and one-third of all women will develop some form of cancer within their lifetime. Currently, scientists have discovered over 100 different types of Cancer. No matter which form of Cancer someone may face, it’s the one diagnosis no patient ever wants to hear from their doctor. 

Understandably, for many, the immediate reaction may be fear. For others, their response is one of determination to do everything possible to beat the disease.

Cancer Defined

So what is Cancer exactly? By definition, cancer is a disease in which some cells within the body grow at an uncontrollable rate and can spread throughout the body. Cancer can begin anywhere in the body and can develop when the normal process of cell division – when new cells are formed, they grow old, become damaged, and eventually die – somehow doesn’t happen. The damaged cells continue to grow and multiply and can form tumors. Some of these tumors can be benign or noncancerous, while others turn out to be cancerous and can spread.

The process in which Cancer spreads and forms new tumors is called metastasis. Cancer found within the blood, sometimes known as leukemias, rarely forms tumors.

Unlike active cancer cells, cancers that form benign tumors do not spread to other areas. They can, however, become large. Benign tumors are not life-threatening, except in cases where their growth affects other parts of the body, like cutting off the blood supply.

How Does Cancer Start?

Nearly all cancers are caused when abnormal cells begin to grow out of control. However, every cancer patient has different circumstances of both the disease and course of treatment involved. Metabolism, pre-existing conditions, and even genetics can play a crucial role in how Cancer will act and its treatment. 

Some women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer, for example, may find that their genetics show a mutation or even an absence that makes them more predisposed than other women toward developing the disease. 

The types of genes that contribute toward the development of cancer fall into three categories. These are proto-oncogenes, DNA repair genes, and tumor suppressor genes. 

Both proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes will control the growth and division of cells. However, if they are damaged or abnormal, they can grow at a more rapid rate. DNA repair genes work to do precisely what their name implies. Damage to them can develop additional mutations in other genes and even within the chromosomes. These changes may cause the cells to become cancerous.

Risk Factors

Having one or more factors for cancer doesn’t necessarily mean that you will ever develop the disease. Even if it is found that someone has one or more risk factors, they may remain cancer-free their whole life. Knowing some of the factors can help you catch cancer early with the help of your doctor. Depending on the cancer, there are different risk factors involved. 

  • Breast Cancer – This form of cancer can develop in women and men. Risk factors include age, hormone levels, number of pregnancies, alcohol consumption, obesity, and genetics can present risk factors for this form of cancer. Regular mammograms and breast self-examination are vital in catching breast cancer early.
  • Colorectal Cancer – Adults over the age of 45 are more prone to develop this form of cancer. Risk factors include lack of exercise, diets that are low in fruits and vegetables with low fiber and high fat, obesity, alcohol, and tobacco use, a history of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, and genetics are all risk factors. Regular screening and eating a plant-based or Mediterranean-style diet can help lessen risk factors.
  • Cervical Cancer – One of the most common risk factors for cervical cancer is when someone has been infected with the human papillomavirus or HPV. Other risk factors include sexual history, smoking, a weakened immune system, long-term use of oral birth control or an IUD, pregnancies, diet, and genetic conditions. HPV can also pose additional potential risk factors in the development of ovarian cancer too. It is especially important for women to get a regular pap smear with their doctor to aid in early detection and successful treatment of this form of cancer.

Cancer can also develop due to environmental factors as well. For those who have worked in factories, construction, or armed services, exposure to certain chemicals can make a person more predisposed to developing various forms of cancer. Even unprotected exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun can cause it.

  • Skin Cancer – This type of cancer is usually caused when skin is exposed to solar radiation or UV rays. This can cause skin cells to grow abnormally. Skin cancer can also occur in areas of the skin that are not exposed to sunlight too. You can reduce your chance of getting it by limiting sun exposure, wearing protective clothing and/or sunscreen, and checking your skin for any changes in your skin, e.g., if a mole suddenly appears or becomes larger. 
  • Lung Cancer – This form of cancer is the third most common in the United States. Scientists and physicians have found that smoking and secondhand smoke are the most significant contributing factors for developing lung cancer. The best way to prevent this disease is to quit smoking and avoid being around those who do as much as possible.

Sir Jason Winters’s Own Story

 

In 1977, our founder, Sir Jason Winters, faced terminal cancer and was given just 3 months to live. Rather than opt for radical surgery that would have left him severely disabled by removing half of his tongue and little chance of survival, he took the time he had to search the world for other approaches to help with his cancer. 

Sir Jason found that there were several herbs from all over the world that he was told could possibly help him gain more time or maybe even stave off cancer in his body.

The first herb he encountered was Herbalene, our Special Spice, he found in Singapore. He then went to the deserts of Arizona and spoke to Native Americans that he worked within the film industry about chaparral and sage. After consulting with the Archbishop of Canterbury, he found red clover may have additional health benefits. Sir Jason tried an infusion of each herb alone, with good results.  

It was actually by accident that Sir Jason ended up combining all three herbs into a tea. When he did this, he felt the synergy between the herbs immediately. Months later, Sir Jason saw his doctors again, and they could find no sign of cancer!

Others who had been diagnosed with cancer heard Sir Jason’s story and wanted to give it a try. Many people stated they experienced wonderful results while drinking the tea. After a series of articles in alternative health magazines, Sir Jason Winters’s tea blend took off worldwide.  

Of course, we would never make claims that our products can cure cancer, but there is no denying that herbs and teas have been used to help humans live a healthier life.

Disclaimer:

Please note that all information provided on this blog is not intended to recommend, diagnose or treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition or to replace the advice of a qualified doctor or other healthcare professional. Before consuming any tea or dietary supplement, please consult with your doctor.

Resources

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Cancer

The National Cancer Institute

“The Sir Jason Winters Story: Killing Cancer” by Benjamin Roth-Smythe, 2009, Vinton Publishing

April Fools Day Tea Party Ideas

April First is a date on the calendar that people either look forward to or dread. So what’s behind this day best known for having a little lighthearted fun?  

April Fool’s Day History

No one knows how April Fool’s Day truly began. However, some historians suspect it may be tied to the Spring Equinox and France’s New Year’s Day celebrations, which were originally celebrated from April first until the Sixteenth Century when it adopted the Gregorian Calendar.

Those who refused to convert to the new calendar and insisted on keeping New Year’s Day on April first were referred to as “April fools” and were often the butt of jokes and pranks. In France, they refer to April first as “Poisson d’Avril “(April Fish) because school children would often tape a paper fish on the backs of friends and classmates.

Some historians believe the April Fool’s Day customs go back even further to Ancient Rome and the Festival of Hilaria, which in Latin means ‘Joyful.’ This festival honored the goddess Cybelle and the Egyptian goddess Hathor, who was known for joy, love, and “every good thing.”  

Modern April Fools Pranks

April Fool’s Day is the most widely recognized non-religious holiday worldwide. It’s a day when almost everybody plays tricks on family, friends, or work colleagues. 

From the 20th Century to the present day, April First pranks have gained an even wider audience. In the 1950s, the BBC reported on a spaghetti harvest from spaghetti trees only native to Switzerland. That image still gets posted on social media.

In 2004, National Public Radio’s All Things Considered ran a story about the U.S. Postal Service’s new policy of portable zip codes that would act much like telephone area codes. Those who moved would keep their phone number and be able to keep the same zip code, no matter where they moved to. Some listeners were disappointed when it turned out to be an April Fool’s Day prank.

Interestingly, on April first, 2004, Google launched its Gmail email service offering one-gigabyte inboxes. Because most other services only provided a maximum of 4 megabytes or fewer, many interpreted the announcement as a joke. The announcement, despite its unfortunate timing, ended up being true.

Make April Fools a Day of Fun and Frivolity

If you want to share in the joyfulness of April first, why not host an April Fool’s Day-themed tea party? Rather than making the day all about pranking the other guests, give it an atmosphere of crazy fun everyone can enjoy.

Here are some ideas for food and fun that are sure to make your party a joy to remember.

Fun Party Décor 

What would a party be without balloons and other fun party favors? Since April Fool’s Day falls on a Friday this year, you can kick off a fun weekend by hosting an appropriate party for adults and kids alike. 

You can let your creative and fun side run wild with a visit to the party store to pick up things like whoopie cushions, rubber chickens, fake bugs, Chinese finger traps, or other kinds of fun yet safe gags.

Send in the Clowns

  • Having cardboard cutouts or posters of your favorite comedians or clowns can also set the stage for laughs. 
  • Put on a costume and make it as outrageous as possible with mismatched clothes, oversized glasses, fake lips, big eyelashes, eyelashes, and rubber noses.   
  • Set up a karaoke station so your guests can tell jokes or make fun rhymes.

Party Like it’s 1399

If you want to take your April Fool’s Day party to the next level, consider hosting a medieval or Renaissance-themed soiree.

  • Party hosts can invite guests to put on their best finery to eat, drink and revel.   
  • Encourage your courtiers to tell jokes and play games and fun pranks; guests can decide who has carried the day as the Court’s Jester based on who could create the most laughs and fun. Or declare that the one who can pull the best prank wins. Be sure to crown the winning court jester properly with a court jester’s hat!

April Fool’s Day Foods

If you’ve ever taken a bite of food that you expected to taste a particular way, only to find it tasted like something else entirely. If you know what that’s like, then you have the idea behind these amusing food ideas.

  • April Fool’s Meat and Potatoes Sundae – What looks like a deliciously sweet ice cream sundae is actually made of alternating layers of mashed potatoes and shredded BBQ chicken topped with a cherry tomato instead of a cherry. For those guests who are non-meat eaters, there are great vegan substitutes that can stand-in.
  • Faux Grilled Cheese – Make or purchase a pound cake, slicing it thin. Heat a pan to grill the pound cake. Butter each side and grill until golden brown. To make the “cheese,” add 1/8 teaspoon of red food coloring and ½ teaspoon of yellow food coloring to the frosting. Mix well and spread between two pieces of the grilled pound cake slices. 
  • Tricky Tea Sandwiches – Host a tea party that’s truly mad by serving tea sandwiches that are not quite what they appear to be. Mix mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and diced pineapple into a base of French vanilla pudding. Place between two slices of pound cake triangles.

Thinly sliced papaya between slices of chocolate pound cake looks enough like smoked salmon finger sandwiches it’s sure to be an incredible taste treat. 

  • Dirt Cake Deception – April really marks the beginning of spring for many people. Why not surprise your party guests with what looks like a charming plant inside a terracotta pot, but is actually a dessert that’s been a seasonal favorite for decades.


You will need:

  • A 32-ounce package of chocolate sandwich cookies with crème filling.
  • ½ cup butter softened
  • 1 8-ounce package of cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup of confectioners (powdered) sugar
  • 2 packages (3.5 ounces) packages of vanilla pudding mix
  • 3 ½ cups of milk
  • 1 12-ounce container of frozen whipped topping, thawed
  • Gummy worms (optional) 

Chop the cookies to a fine consistency in a food processor. The crème filling will disappear into the mix. Set aside.

Mix butter, cream cheese, and confectioner’s sugar into a bowl. 

In a separate bowl, combine milk and pudding, whip together. Then combine the pudding mixture and whipped cream mixture. 

In a new and clean flower pot, add a layer of the pulverized cookie, then top with the cream mix. Continue to alternate the layers until the flowerpot is filled. Add gummy worms in between layers if you wish. 

Chill in the refrigerator for a couple of hours or until ready to serve. Top with an artificial plant or flower to complete. Dish out the “dirt” by serving it with a garden trowel, and enjoy watching the expression on your guest’s faces turn from surprise to one of pure enjoyment!

Resources  

April Fools Ideas – Great Party Ideas for April Fools Day.” Party Ideas & Inspirations, by Anjali Ghadge, Purple Trail, August 25, 2017. Web. March 26, 2022.

April Fools’ Day” by History Channel Editors, History.com. A&E Television Networks, March 132017.Web. March 28, 2022.

“The Goddess Book of Days” by Dian Stein, Second Edition, 1992, The Crossing Press, Freedom, CA

Mr. Abe’s Antarctic Solo Expedition

Adventurer Masatatsu Abe

A young Japanese adventurer, Mr. Abe, reached the South Pole by solo trek, after 55 days and 918 km in 2019. Mr. Abe was greatly inspired by the story of Sir Jason Winters, which was a driving factor in his attempt at another solo Antarctic trek at the end of 2021, this time following the same route as Nobu Shirase Party for the first time ever.

Sir Raymond Winters was proud to sponsor Mr. Abe during his expedition. We invite you to read more about Mr. Abe and view pictures and video of his journey which lasted 3 months and over 800 km through Antarctica.

A Professional Adventurer / Explorer – (in his own words).

Born in Akita Prefecture in 1982, North Japan, he has been embarking on adventures all over the world, since he was a student of University of Akita. All of adventures done by his own, for example, he completed 6,400km of “RIKISHA JAPAN TRAVERSE ”, in which he traveled around 68 Ichinomiya Shrines enshrined all over Japan driving Jinrikisha, a Japanese traditional rickshaw. In 2019, he became the first Japanese to walk alone up to the South Pole taking“ Messner Route ”. In 2021, He is endeavoring to achieve another challenge to the South Pole attributing to Nobu Sherase’s 1911 Antarctic route, who also originated from Abe’s hometown Akita.

On the challenge of “Shirase Route”

As one of the climax of my adventure career, I finally have a chance to challenge to walk up to the South Pole alone taking “Shirase Route”, which is my dream from childhood. I feel confident now both physically and mentally to achieve new expedition after the last Antarctic traverse in which I walked up to the South Pole taking “Messner Route” alone as a first Japanese explorer. Although I was sickly and even bullied sometime, I can come to stand this start line by keep training myself. Through the “Shirase Route” challenge, I hope to show everybody that dream comes true and are passed on someone. I am going to stand the South Pole with all of your dreams which push my back to the goal.

 

The Top 10 Benefits of Drinking Tea

As hectic as the holidays are, there is the undeniable chill of winter after the New Year in the air. Why not indulge yourself in a cup of tea as a way to destress after the holidays? Having a cup of tea can be the perfect way to warm yourself up any time of the day or night. 

Here is a list of the top 10 benefits that come with making tea a part of your day year-round.

Tea Helps to Reduce Stress

By now, almost everyone has thought at least a little bit about what they want their 2022 to look like. Fulfilling the New Year’s resolutions we make to ourselves every year isn’t meant to be stressful, but it could be. Having a cup of tea can help reduce daily stress and make it easier to achieve those resolutions.

Scientific studies have found that all teas derived from the Camellia sinensis or tea plant contain an amino acid known as l-theanine. This amino acid is only found in the tea plant and causes increased alpha waves in the brains of those consuming an infusion of the leaves. These increased alpha waves induce a sense of calm and relaxation. 

Tea Can Help You Meditate

For centuries, cultures throughout Asia have made the preparation and consumption of tea both a meditative and ceremonial process. Shinto and Buddhist monks regularly drink tea before meditation because it creates a feeling of calm and relaxed sense of focus. 

Again, the L-theanine acts to relax the body and ease what is commonly referred to as “monkey brain.” Drinking a cup of tea can shut down the mind chatter for those who have begun the practice of meditation. In its place, tea can offer a sense of awareness and relaxation during the meditation process.

Tea Can Help You Lose Weight

Many people resolve that they want to try to lose or maintain healthy body weight. Tea has been shown to help increase the body’s overall metabolism, improve blood sugar levels and increase fat oxidation. 

The flavonoids in tea known as catechins give your metabolism a boost. This boost can increase the number of calories you burn and reduce white fat cells in the body while increasing brown fat cells, which help us to burn calories.

Tea also acts to reduce cravings so that you feel fuller longer, which makes it far less likely that you’ll be tempted to snack between meals. According to a study conducted in 2017, those who consumed between 2 and 6 cups of green tea per day for a period of three months or longer had less body fat and weighed less than those who drank less tea or none at all. 

Tea Reduces Inflammation

Scientists have found that many health conditions and chronic diseases in the body such as diabetes and cognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer’s Disease, can be traced back to inflammation. The primary polyphenols found in tea known as ECGC (Epigallocatechin gallate) contain several times more anti-inflammatory properties than Vitamin C.

Tea Can Be a Great Substitute for Sugary Drinks

In the past, we discussed why black, green, and herbal teas are so much better for you than high-sugar content sodas and even fruit drinks. If one of your resolutions this year is to reduce sugar, getting out of the soda or juice habit, drinking tea instead can be ideal. The naturally occurring polyphenols in tea can help reduce the cravings for sugar and help normalize glucose levels in the body.

Tea Can Improve the Health of Bones and Teeth

One of the thousands of chemical constituents found in the teal plant is a naturally occurring type of fluoride. Fluoride, along with ECGC, helps reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth that can cause tooth decay, gum recession, and tooth loss. Chinese researchers have also found that the catechins in Green tea may also help prevent bone loss or osteoarthritis.

Tea Can Improve Intestinal Health

Along with following through on any commitment to eat healthier that you may have made, when drinking tea regularly, you may find that your digestive system seems happier, too. 

Scientists have found that the polyphenols found in tea help to increase the amount of beneficial gut flora in our stomach and intestines. These beneficial bacteria act to support the digestive process and reduce harmful bacteria that can cause stomach upset or conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome. 

Tea Can Boost Your Brain Power

While you might think that it’s the caffeine that helps us fight off brain fog first thing in the morning or lifts us up in the middle of the day, you would be only partially correct. Tea also contains compounds such as L-theanine, which has been shown to improve brain function by increasing the ability to concentrate and focus without adding a feeling of ‘jitters’ that the same amount of coffee might produce. 

Research has shown that while both caffeine and L-theanine can help increase awareness and mood on their own, they seem to work very well together and may reduce the risk or slow the progression of cognitive brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other neurodegenerative conditions.

Tea Can Improve Your Cardiovascular Health

According to the American Heart Association, drinking at least one cup of tea per day can help lower LDL or “bad” cholesterol in the body while boosting the HDL or “good cholesterol.” Tea has also been shown to increase healthy blood flow, reduce high blood pressure, and decrease stroke or hardening of the arteries. A Japanese research team found that consuming tea lowered the chances of dying from cardiovascular-related death by as much as 16%.

Drinking Tea Can Lower the Risk of Certain Cancers

The antioxidants contained within tea have another potential benefit; scientists have found a direct correlation between drinking tea regularly and a decreased incidence of certain forms of cancers such as breast, bone, prostate, colorectal. A study conducted in Japan in 2006 indicated that the polyphenols contained in teas were shown to inhibit carcinogenic cells and were chemopreventative in those who consumed three or more cups per day.

Please note that all information provided on this blog is not intended to recommend, diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition or to replace the advice of a qualified doctor or other healthcare professional. Before consuming tea or any other natural health supplement, please consult with your doctor.

Resources

“The Everything Healthy Tea Book” by Babbette Donaldson, 2014, Adams Media, New York, 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, England, UK

Tea and Heart Health

Valentine’s Day is coming up, so let’s talk about heart health! Our hearts are amazing things. Over the average lifetime, the heart beats billions of times to pump blood throughout the body. Blood carries the oxygen, vitamins, minerals, nutrients, and all the other things we need to stay alive while helping us get rid of the things that we don’t.     

In short, we are all dependent upon our heart’s health. Poor diet, smoking, lack of exercise, family history of heart disease, or sudden illness can endanger an otherwise healthy heart. There are, however, several things that we can do to keep ourselves and our hearts healthy as we age.

 How Can Drinking Tea Help?

A recent study conducted in China involving over 5,000 participants found that those who drank a cup of tea every day were less prone to hardening of the arteries and were far less likely to suffer from heart failure or other cardiovascular issues by at least 20 to 22 percent. Those who drank tea less than three times per week showed higher cholesterol levels and higher incidences of related cardiovascular stress.

We can directly attribute one of the leading causes of cardiovascular disease to inflammation. The flavonoids act as antioxidants and can be found in black, green, and white tea. These antioxidants may help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol, and reduce high blood pressure.

Researchers with the British Heart Foundation believe there is a strong sign that the epigallocatechin gallate or EGCG found in the tea plant leaves may fight inflammation and help break up and dissolve plaques that can build up in the blood vessels. 

This plaque buildup can cause cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, which can reduce blood flow to the brain and the heart, leading to stroke, heart attack, or even death. 

Those who took part in the original Chinese study showed lower cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and less buildup of dangerous plaques in their arteries. The scientists believe perhaps the main reason for plaque reduction can be traced to the antioxidant properties of black, green, white, and oolong teas. They found flavonoids helped keep blood vessels and arteries relaxed and flexible and improved blood flow.

More Ways to Keep Your Heart Healthy

No matter how old we are, making healthy lifestyle choices in terms of a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep can maintain and support the health of the heart. Here are some more ways to keep your heart healthy.

  • Maintaining a healthy weight – Being overweight puts you at a higher risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease.
     
  • Avoid fatty, high sodium, and processed foods – Eating fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and fish can help improve our overall health. Eating salmon, herring, trout, or other fish high in Omega 3s or nuts and seeds provides healthy fats that can help maintain and potentially improve heart health.
  • Pay Attention to What You’re Drinking – Another way to cut calories is to drink water or tea instead of reaching for a high-sugar soft drink. If you do drink alcohol, do it in moderation.
  • Get Regular Exercise – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise and muscle-strengthening exercise at least two days per week. It doesn’t matter if you prefer to jog, do yoga, swim, or ride a bike. The key is to get moving.
  • Quit Smoking – Smoking takes a heavy toll on our lungs and hearts.
  • Take your prescribed medications as recommended – Many of us are already taking medication to keep us healthy. For those with conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes, for example, it’s essential to follow your doctor’s recommendations.

Taking Heart-Healthy Supplements 

Because our daily diets will sometimes fall short in nutritional value, at Sir Jason Winters International, our primary focus is bringing the highest quality teas and health supplements to our customers. 

  • A Daily Multivitamin – Here on our blog, we have discussed the importance of taking a quality multivitamin every day. Whether you prefer to take it in pill form or prefer a gummy vitamin, a multivitamin contains vitamins and minerals that can help you get the essential vitamins you need.
  • Fish Oils -The American Heart Association recommends consuming fish at least once each week to ensure we get the right amount of Omega 3 fatty acids in our diet. These Omega 3s help lower LDL or “bad” cholesterol while raising the HDL or “good” cholesterol levels. Sir Jason Winters’ Royal Crest Krill Oil Supplements ,  and our Organic Flax Oil Supplements provide the necessary Omega 3s, 6s, and 9s that may be missing from our diets.  Sir Jason Winters Triple Omega 3-6-9 supplement comes in easy to digest softgells and are an excellent choice to help you get just the right amount of essential fatty acids in your daily diet.

  • CoQ10 – The supplement CoEnzyme Q10 or CoQ10 is a nutrient that contains powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants help us to resist the free radicals that we are exposed to daily. Taking a CoQ10 supplement every day might help us keep a healthy heart by potentially lowering our blood pressure and reducing the risk of stroke or heart attack. Our Sir Jason Winters CoQ10 supplements are easy to digest gel caps and contain 100 milligrams of CoEnzyme Q10.
  • Vitamin C – Researchers at the University of California Irvine found that one effect of taking a vitamin C supplement is that it makes the veins and arteries in the body more elastic. This makes blood flow more efficient. Each tablet of our Royal Crest Vitamin C tablets contain 1000 milligrams of Vitamin C, citrus bioflavonoids complex, rutin, hesperidin, acerola berry, querceti. Take one to three tablets daily for full immune support. 
  • Herbs for Heart Health – Since ancient times, traditional healers and herbalists have been aware of several herbs that may improve cardiovascular health. Among those are Indian sage leaf, gotu kola, elecampane root, burdock root, and cayenne. Along with these herbs, Sir Jason Winters has added our proprietary special spice, Herbalene, and created our Ultimate  Combination or TUC Formula.
  • Tea for Overall Good Health – Taking a cup of tea at any time during the day is one of the best things we can do for ourselves. Few things equally match the sense of calm and relaxation that tea can bring. Tea can ease stress by allowing us to slow down. 

Right now, all of Sir Jason Winters’s products are available at significant savings. We are offering an additional 5% savings if you take advantage of our monthly or bi-weekly subscription service to save even more. Visit our shop today and give yourself or someone you love the gift of good health.

Disclaimer: Please note that all information provided on this blog is not intended to recommend, diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition or to replace the advice of a qualified doctor or other healthcare professional. Before consuming tea or any other natural health supplement, please consult your doctor.

Resources

Prescription for Nutritional Healing: A Practical Reference for Drug-Free Remedies” by Phyllis A. Balch, 2010, Avery Publishing, New York, NY

“Effects of Tea Consumption on Measures of Cardiovascular Disease: A Systematic Review of Meta-Analysis Studies and Randomised Controlled Trials” by Dr Chris Etheridge, Dr. Tim Bond & Dr. Emma Derbyshire, 2018, Journal of Nutrition & Food Science

“Earl Mindell’s New Vitamin Bible” by Earl Mindell and Hester Mundis,2011, Grand Central Life & Style, New Yor, NY.

Grandma’s Cold Remedies: Do They Work?

Grandma’s Cold Remedies: Do They Work?

Since ancient times, humans have been finding ways of dealing with both injury and illness by drawing upon the surrounding resources. For those of us who grew up in the country or spent time with our grandparents and ended up with minor scratches, scrapes from time to time, or we’re feeling a bit under the weather, there always seemed to be ways that could at least make us feel better.  

The mystery of why humans have yet to conquer the common cold is that there are over 200 viruses and rhinoviruses that can trigger what we consider a “cold.”

While almost all of us grew up with, or at least heard about, tried-and-true methods of dealing with the various symptoms of colds, we wonder what helped us recover from it. Here are a few of the most common remedies handed down to many of us over the centuries.

Stay Home

The best place to recover from a cold is to be where you’re likely to be most comfortable. When you are achy, running a fever, or having chills, you’re going to feel a whole lot better by simply recovering at home rather than pushing yourself to go to work and potentially infecting others or making yourself sicker. Wrap up in a blanket to keep warm and indulge in a bit of well-deserved self-care.

Chicken Soup

Whether chicken soup actually helps overcome or shorten a cold or flu has been hotly debated for centuries. Here’s one reason they help. Soups and broths contain not only water but also salt. Hot liquids cause increased blood flow and seem to help congestion move, and you end up feeling better. 

Most chicken soup recipes contain vegetables that can provide vitamins and nutrients that can help nourish the body. Herbs and spices used to season the soup can lend themselves in to help further warm up the body and activate the healing process.

One herb commonly found in many chicken soup recipes is garlic (Allium sativum). Garlic contains hundreds of chemical constituents; however, allicin’s constituent includes slightly sulfurous compounds and is both antiviral and antifungal. It is also reputed to have slightly antibiotic properties. If what ails you is bacterial rather than viral, you will likely feel better after consuming foods containing garlic. 

Garlic, as good as it sounds, isn’t perfect. Some of the side effects include bad breath or body order. Garlic can also cause digestive issues if too much is consumed.  

Honey and Lemon

Honey has been known to help with various ailments since ancient times. Honey can coat the throat and help ease a cough when you have a cold. It also has naturally occurring antibacterial properties that fight against some of the bacteria that caused the cold. 

Lemon (Citrus limon) contains citric acid and lots of Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), which acts to stimulate the salivary glands, further easing the soreness that we feel with a cold.

Vitamin C

There have been many reports over the decades that Vitamin C may help boost our body’s immune system, slow or diminish viral bacteria, and reduce the inflammation in the throat and nose. 

While most of us can get a healthy dose of Vitamin C from the foods we eat, such as oranges, lemons, limes, kiwi, grapefruit, peppers, tomatoes, and strawberries, sometimes taking a daily supplement can help. Here at Sir Jason Winters, we carry several dietary supplements containing Vitamin C, depending on your personal needs.  

Zinc

Our bodies require this mineral to stay healthy. Although it can be found in eggs, meat, and seafood, sometimes our diets can fall short. The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for zinc is 15 mg for men and 12 mg for women. 

A daily vitamin can help keep zinc at recommended levels, but sometimes when suffering from a cold, taking a little more can be helpful if taken when the first signs of the onset of a cold manifest. Several of Sir Jason Winters’ vitamin and mineral supplements contain zinc and can help boost your overall immunity.

Zinc has been shown to possibly prevent cold viruses from replicating, but often grandmother’s remedy of sucking on a zinc lozenge can leave a bad taste in your mouth. Don’t take too much, either!

Elderberry 

Many grandmothers have sworn by putting a spoonful of homemade elderberry syrup in hand as a way to help lessen the length and severity of a cold. Sir Jason Winters makes getting the goodness of elderberry much easier with our Elderberry Gummy Vites, which also contain Vitamin C and zinc.

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) is a delicious purplish-black berry that has long been valued in addressing symptoms typical of colds, flu, and other sinus conditions. Researchers have found that elderberry extract appears to be effective in fighting off viruses. Recent studies suggest that the anthocyanins that occur naturally in elderberries may boost immunity and prevent viruses from adhering to the cells in our bodies. 

A Hot Cup of Tea

As we have said here on our blog, after water, tea is the most consumed beverage globally. Black, green, and white tea are all made from the oxidized leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. Tea is high in flavonoids which act as antioxidants. These reduce inflammation within the body and may ease the swelling and pain of a sore throat. 

Once you are over your cold, those same antioxidants may possibly even provide immune support against future colds. To boost your immunity, why not indulge in a cup of herbal, black, or green tea every day? 

During the month of February, when you place any 3 boxes of tea bags in your cart, the cost of 1 box will be automatically deducted from your order at checkout! You don’t need a coupon to take advantage of this offer. However, we have to limit it to just one free box per customer per order because of the incredible savings. Please see complete details here: https://www.sirjasonwinters.com/special/ 

 Disclaimer: Please note that all information provided on this blog is not intended to recommend, diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition or to replace the advice of a qualified doctor or other healthcare professional. Before consuming tea or any other natural health supplement, please consult your doctor.

Resources

“The Family Herbal” A Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health, and Vitality” by Rosemary Gladstar, 2001, Storey Publishing, LLC, Adams, MA

“People’s Desk Reference: Traditional Herbal Formulas Volume 1 & 2” by F. Joseph Montagna, 1979, (Collector’s Edition) Quest for Truth Publications, Lake Oswego, WI

“Secrets of the Sacred White Buffalo: Native American Healing Remedies” by Gary Null, Ph.D., 1998, Prentice-Hall, Paramus, NJ

“How to Be Your Own Herbal Pharmacist” by Linda Rector-Page, N.D. Ph.D. 1991, self-published, Sierra, CA

Happy New Year From Sir Raymond

Hello friends and Happy New Year! A Message From Sir Raymond Winters

As co-founder and president of Jason Winters International, I want to personally thank you for your continued support during these trying times.

I want to assure you that our offices and manufacturing plants are open and we continue to provide the exact same JWT formulas my father, Sir Jason Winters, formulated over 4 decades ago.

Our supply lines are intact and we have ample supply of the key ingredients that make up the JWT formulas.

I realize that times are hard and stressful. Everywhere you look, it seems like bad news day after day. So much information and misinformation, it’s hard to get a clear picture. However, this will pass and we will get through this.

It’s up to us all as individuals to look after ourselves. It always has been. Eat right. Drink JWT every day. Think positive and avoid negative people.

Remember that you are your best advocate!

Mostly, realize that you are special and unique in the universe. You are good enough and your life is worthwhile and meaningful.

Happy 2022!

Sir Raymond Winters
President, Tri-Sun International

Let Sir Jason Winters Teas Help You Resolve for a Healthy New Year

As we wind down the last bit of 2021, it’s the time of year when people think about resolutions for the New Year. Over the last year, few people would deny that, despite our best efforts, 2021 was a challenge.  

2022 is coming soon and with it springs the hope that the coming year can be better. If you have yet to sit down and make your list of hopes and to-do’s in the new year, here are a few ideas to get you started.

Goal Planning for the New Year

The holiday season is a great time to allow yourself to dream a little. Don’t be afraid to dream big! Think about what you want to have, do or be this coming year, despite all that’s happening.

Maybe you want to learn how to fly a plane or go back to school and finish your degree. Perhaps this is the year that you’ll want to start your own business or finally finish and publish that book that’s been languishing in a desk drawer for the last few years.  

Do you want to save more of what you make and put it towards retirement? The New Year is the perfect time to sit down and consider your financial goals. For example, you could save more or make a plan to invest more of what you earn in a Roth IRA or retirement plan with your current employer. If possible, talk with a financial planner and develop something that works best for you.

Whatever ignites your passion, start by writing that goal or set of plans down and committing to it. Place sticky notes on your computer monitor or bathroom mirror and tell a close friend or family member who is supportive of acting as a cheerleader as you work toward your goals. Such people can also hold you accountable and help keep you on track.

Increase Your Knowledge

Today, we have more access to the tools to make our dreams come true, especially in books, online classes, and audio and video resources. Many of these skills and topics are offered free online or for a nominal fee.  

If you want to increase your skills on the job, websites like LinkedIn and YouTube have learning resources that can help make it happen. You can still actively be learning while doing chores around the house or while driving.  

If you’re an avid reader and want to increase the number of books you read but can’t seem to get enough downtime actually to curl up with a good book, audiobooks might be the way to go. Many of us remember what it was like to have a book read to us as children. Once you get started on the habit of listening to audiobooks, you might rediscover that love again. 

Consider those whose lives and accomplishments you admire and read their biographies or memoirs. You may find they had a problem similar to yours and came up with a way to solve or overcome it. 

Mindfulness in the New Year

There’s no question that the last few years have been incredibly stressful for nearly everybody. Even though we might feel buffeted and are simply reacting to the events, people, and problems that spring up around us, relaxation and meditation can help us deal with them.

Mindfulness exercises that focus on breathing and meditation help us be more present. By focusing on our breath for just a few minutes, we can better regulate our emotions, manage stress, and develop a more positive outlook. 

Since ancient times, throughout Asia and around the world, taking time for a cup of tea can help create the space for mindfulness and relaxation. In 16th Century Japan, the tea ceremony or chanoyu was created around a series of rituals that promoted mindfulness through peace, gratitude, tranquility, and respect. Having respect and gratitude each day is an essential key to creating mindfulness in our lives.

Focus on overall good health

Instead of resolving to lose weight this year and then giving up after finding drastic diet restrictions too hard to maintain, try focusing on overall good health. If you are eating good, nutritious food that is less processed, getting plenty of exercise, and restful sleep, good health has a tendency to follow.

  • Eat healthier. By including more fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes and fresh fish, poultry, and meats that are low in fat, you can potentially improve your overall health. High-quality foods can help by lowering cholesterol levels and potentially lowering high blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart attack, stroke, diabetes, and other chronic conditions.

 

  • Drink fewer drinks high in sugar.  Sugary drinks are one of the most significant contributors to obesity and the development of type two diabetes. Instead, why not make water or tea your drinks of choice in the New Year? Our Sir Jason Winters Herbal and Green teas are excellent, hot or cold year-round.
  • Increase body movement. During the pandemic, many of us got used to working from home and getting little, if any, exercise. Considering the current Coronavirus resurgence, it’s still questionable whether going to the local gym to work out is considered a good idea. That doesn’t mean that you can’t do some type of exercise at home. Even if it’s just taking a walk or bike ride around the block, or doing a few mild cardio exercises or yoga every day, it can improve mood and how you feel overall. 
  • Get better sleep. Getting good, consistent sleep is very important in terms of overall good health. According to Health.gov, most adults require 7 hours or more of uninterrupted sleep every day. Sleep helps us to stay at a healthy weight, lessens the frequency of colds and flu, improves mood and the ability to concentrate and make better decisions. Consistent good sleep also decreases the chance of developing chronic and often more severe health conditions.

As with any set of goals or resolutions, there can be setbacks along the way. If you fall down a time or two, don’t give up! One of the best ways to achieve a goal or maintain a new habit is to make them realistic, appreciate the process along the way, and celebrate those times when you’re successful.

Resources

“The Everything Healthy Tea Book” by Babbette Donaldson, 2014, Adams Media, New York, 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, England, UK

Ring in the Holidays with Gifts from Sir Jason Winters

 We’ve reached the time of the year that everyone refers to as the “gift-giving season.” What could be better than giving friends and loved ones the gift of good health? Here at Sir Jason Winters International, we’re sure that we’ve got the perfect gift to match nearly everyone on your holiday gift list!

Picking the Perfect Gift for Your Favorite Tea Lover

Having a hot drink to warm up with during the cold months of winter is something almost everyone enjoys. For thousands of years, tea has endured as one of the best, most healthful ways to help warm the heart and the body. Here are some suggestions for using tea in gifting.

  • When giving the gift of tea, try to determine whether the recipient prefers loose tea or the convenience of tea bags. If you are unsure, why not give them loose tea along with a package of empty tea bags like our T-Sacs for them to fill as they wish?
  • Along with any boxes or canisters of tea you select, consider adding a combination of tea accessories like an antique teacup and saucer or a tea mug with an inspirational slogan. For serious tea commissures, you can hardly go wrong with a tea infuser, tea strainer, a lemon squeezer, and a couple of tea towels tucked around a jar of local raw honey. 
  • If they have all of those things already, maybe a brand new French press or a unique teapot in a gift box or basket will be just the perfect thing that will make them think of you each time they sit down to enjoy a cup of tea!

Our Teas

Sir Jason Winters first formulated our loose leaf, five-ounce Classic Blend Tea, over 40 years ago in 1977. This tea is available in either Sir Jason Winters Classic Blend with Sage or Sir Jason Winters Classic Blend with Chaparral. As with any loose tea, it is prepared using a tea infuser or T-sac for steeping the tea to the desired strength. Both teas are caffeine free and contain Red Clover, Gotu Kola, and our Herbalene ® blend of Special Spice along with either Sage or Chaparral.

For those who prefer the convenience of pre-bagged tea, we also offer our Sir Jason Winters Original Tea with Sage or Chaparral with Oolong tea added. Each comes in a box of 20-pre-packaged tea bags.  

If your favorite tea drinker loves the taste of flavored teas, we’ve got something they are sure to love. Sir Jason Winters Raspberry Pre-Brewed Tea, available in either a 4-ounce canister or our Raspberry Flavored tea in a box of 30 convenient tea bags.

For those who love the taste of summer that only a peach-flavored tea can offer, we are proud to offer our Sir Jason Winters Peach Flavored Tea Bags in a 30 count box. 

Don’t worry; we haven’t left green tea lovers on your list out of the picture. Sir Jason Winters Prebrewed Green Herbal Tea or GHT contains our proprietary blend of Red Clover, Indian Sage Leaf, Green Tea Leaves, and Herbalene. It’s available in either a 4-ounce canister or in a box of 30 tea bags.

Still can’t decide which of our teas is the best choice? Not a problem! We have our 4 Tea Variety Pack that lets you choose up to four different boxes – that’s 120 tea bags – of Sir Jason Winters teas for the ultimate in tea-drinking choice! 

We have also made our 100 and 120 tea bag selections available in a luxurious Special Edition Tea Chest for those with the most discerning of tastes. However, because we are so close to the holidays, be sure to check the availability for this item.

Supplements They’ll Use Throughout the Year

Good health begins with the foods we eat. However, during cold and flu season and because of the fast pace of our daily lives, sometimes it isn’t easy to get the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients we need. 

Almost everyone has someone on their gift list, which has become more health-conscious today than ever. Sir Jason Winters International offers a complete line of the highest quality supplements available. We have blends for maintaining heart health, boosting their overall immunity during cold and flu season, as well as daily multivitamin regimes, 

Earlier this year, we added our Sir Jason Winters Gummy Vitamins for adults and kids. To further help our customers boost their immune systems, we are also proud to introduce Sir Jason Winters Elderberry Gummy Vites. Just two gummies a day contain 100 mg of black elderberry along with Vitamin C and Zinc citrate to help boost the body’s immune system. 

Extended Holiday Savings

At the beginning of the holiday season, during the month of November, we offered our customers over 30% off of our 5-ounce canisters of Sir Jason Winters Sage and Chaparral Tea. Because of popular demand, we have extended that offer through December. 

Each canister is regularly priced at $29.95 – but for the holidays they are on sale for just $19.95! The best part of this offer is that there’s no coupon required and there are no quantity limits. That means you can give the gift of tea to every tea lover on your list. At such deep savings, however, we can only extend this offer until December 31, 2021.

If you are looking to save even more holiday savings, all of our teas and supplements are available via our subscription service. Choose either a monthly or biweekly delivery and save an additional 5% each month!

Still Not Sure What To Give?

With so many healthful choices, deciding on what to get for those who are hard to buy for can be a challenge. We are happy to offer our Sir Jason Winters eGift cards to our customers who might face such a gift-giving dilemma. 

Simply fill out an email address for each recipient, along with any message you choose. Our eGift Cards are available for whatever date or in any denomination that you choose. 

We hope that this list has given you some ideas for gift-giving this season. On behalf of all of us here at Sir Jason Winters, may you and yours come to know the joy of the season.

Trying Sir Jason Winters Teas for the First Time

While we are more than a little partial to the goodness of our Sir Jason Winters Teas, we realize that not everyone has experienced it for themselves. Our founder, Sir Jason Winters, used the power of herbs to create our Original Blend and Classic Blend Teas. 

If you have never tried Sir Jason Winters’ teas, here is a rundown on each, along with information and tips about how to get the most out of your cup of Sir Jason Winters tea!

Sir Jason Winters Original Tea with Sage – This tea was formulated by Sir Jason himself with the powerful all-natural ingredients of Red Clover, Indian Sage and our exclusive Herbalene Blend. 

Each herb interacts and supports the other to create a delicious tasting cup of tea. If you are a true tea connoisseur and prefer loose tea, this blend it available in a 5 oz container. We’re sure that once you try it, you will love it! 

To brew the loose version of this tea, use two teaspoons of the tea to one pint of boiling water. Allow to steep for 15 minutes, then sweeten to taste. You can drink a cup before and during each meal. 

If you’re in a hurry, but really love the unequaled quality of loose tea, we also offer our Sir Jason Winters Pre-Brewed Tea Original. Just steep it for one to two minutes and enjoy!

For those tea lovers who like the convenience of having a pre-bagged tea, we are proud to offer our Sir Jason Winters Original Tea with Sage in a box of 20 pre-packaged tea bags. Each tea bag makes up to three cups of tea. 

A good serving suggestion of Sir Jason Winters Original Tea with Chaparral to drink each day would be two or three cups. This tea is excellent each morning before breakfast or in the late morning before lunch or before bed are ideal times to enjoy this classic tea blend.

Sir Jason Winters Original Tea with Chapparal – Sir Jason Winters learned from Native Americans about the chaparral plant. Indigenous Peoples of the desert in the Southwest had used what they believed were healing properties of chaparral (Larrea tridentata) for millennia for many conditions, as well as to potentially ward off or recover from colds and flu.

On its own, this herb can be bitter. However, Sir Jason formulated this tea to taste great and take full advantage of the wonderful properties of chaparral and still deliver all the delicious taste of our tea. Like our Classic Tea with Sage, Sir Jason Winters Original Tea with Chaparral is available as a loose tea in a 5 oz canister. 

To make this delicious tea in its loose-leaf form, use two teaspoons of the tea to one pint of boiling water. Allow to steep for 15 minutes. Sweeten to taste if you wish with stevia, raw honey, or your favorite natural sweetener. This loose tea makes a delicious sun tea during the summer months, too! 

This tea is also available in tea-bag form in a box of 20 to go with you anywhere and enjoy. The tea bag only needs 1 -2 minutes of steeping time in an 8-ounce cup of boiling water. Each tea bag can yield up to three cups of tea. 

Sir Jason Winters Green Herbal Tea

Because the potential health benefits of green tea are well known around the world, the market can seem flooded with different brands of green tea. Sir Jason Winters himself wanted to ensure only the finest bend of Chao Phraya Tea was used for his products. 

Our Green Herbal Tea, or G.H.T., is available in a box of 20 convenient tea bags or as a Pre-Brewed Asian Green Tea in a 4-ounce canister. Both forms of this tea give you the highest tea quality available and a quick steeping time, so you don’t have to wait too long to enjoy our tea.

Sir Jason Winters Flavored Teas

If you love the sweet taste of fruit in your tea, Sir Jason Winters offers teas with natural Raspberry and Peach flavors. With our 4-ounce canister of Pre-Brewed Raspberry Tea, you get all the benefits of our Classic Herbal tea with the delicious goodness of Raspberry. Or if you love the portability of tea bags, we also carry Raspberry Flavored Tea Bags or our Raspberry Flavored Tea with Stevia in 30 count tea-bag boxes.

If the sunny warm taste of peach is more to your liking, we have just what you’re looking for in our Pre-Brewed Peach Tea in a loose form inside of a 4-ounce canister. Being pre-brewed, this tea also only takes a minute or two to steep. Then sit back, relax and enjoy. 

As with our Raspberry flavored tea, our peach tea is also available in 30-count boxes of either Peach Flavored Tea Bags or Peach Flavored Tea Bags with Stevia. All three of our flavored teas feature Sir Red Clover, Indian Sage, Oolong Tea, and our special spice, Herbalene®.

Still unsure which Sir Jason Winters Tea in bag form to try first? We’ve got the perfect solution for that! With our 4-Tea Variety Pack, you can choose any combination of our Green, Raspberry, Raspberry Tea with Stevia, Peach, or Peach Tea with Stevia. You get four boxes of tea – that’s 120 tea bags at a great price. 

For millennia, human beings have used the power of herbs in an attempt to maintain and improve good health. We are sure that once you try our Sir Jason Winters teas, you will be impressed with the freshness, quality, and great taste of our tea. See how you feel once you make our teas a habit in your daily routine. 

Disclaimer: Please note that all information presented in this blog is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition or to replace the advice of a physician. Before altering your diet or consuming any dietary supplement, consult with your doctor or qualified healthcare professional.