Mystical Tea!

Tea connects the world socially, ritually, culturally, therapeutically, spiritually and mystically. While Japan and Korea devote special ceremonies around the making and drinking of tea, for most people around the world, the morning begins with sipping a hot cuppa. From the roadside tea to various concoctions like iced tea, black tea and milk tea with condiments, this brew is the cheapest and the commonest drink after water! While the British have the high tea and afternoon tea as forums for social interactions, milk tea is perhaps the best form of hospitality one can offer and get in this part of the world. Black tea is usually served hot in Asia and Asia-influenced restaurants around the world. You may lace it with cream/milk and honey/sugar. Some also like to spice it up with clove, nutmeg and cinnamon.

DID YOU KNOW?
Research shows that regular consumption of green tea has reduced rates of cancer among Chinese men and women by 60 per cent! Go green!

THE CUP THAT CURES...
"If you are cold, tea will warm you. If you are heated, it will cool you. If you are depressed, it will cheer you. If you are excited, it will calm you." so said British Prime Minister William Gladstone. Recent research has shown that antioxidants found in tea can help in reducing cardiovascular diseases, prevent cancer and improve the immune system. There are several varieties of tea- black, green, white,oolong, red and herbal. Both green and black tea are good for health, as they contain antioxidants as well as cardioprotectives. But green has more antioxidants.The health benefits of green tea have been found and reported in countless research papers. Among other things, green tea was found to lower the risk of cancer,infective intestine diseases and liver infections, likewise; green tea helps lower cholesterol, assists with weight loss and strengthens cognitive abilities. In fact, green tea is believed to lower death rates from heart diseases! One can have as many cups of tea as one wants in a day but the sugar and milk levels have to be kept in mind. Studies show that polyphenols in tea may reduce risk of gastric, oesophageal and skin cancers if one consumes 4-6 cups daily. Just two cups of tea may lower the risk of ovarian cancer by 46 per cent in women. Other studies have found that polyphenols can help prevent blood clotting and also lower chloresterol levels.

Since herbal tea is not derived from the leaves of the Camellia plant, it does not have the same wellness properties. It does not contain the same flavonoids as green or black tea. However, since they are infusions of herbs, roots, flowers and spices, they transfer the properties of the original herb or plant part. For instance, chamomile tea has a very calming and relaxing effect. On average, a cup of tea has 40 mg of caffeine, compared to 85 mg found in a cup of freshly brewed coffee. It is not known whether decaf tea has the same polyphenols and health benefits. "Tea comes very highly recommended as a substitute for drinks containing high calories, like soft drinks," says a dietician.

CALM MY MIND
Studies have shown that tea tea is a stress reliever. Like a yoga or meditation, adding tea to your routine is a great alternative method of relaxation. In fact, psychologists suggest that sipping tea slowly and reverently can alleviate tension. Choose a tea service that appeals to you in terms of design and colour. Look for you favourite serene spot- your verandah, the low-backed chair next to the drawing room window or a niche in the patio. Make the spot as inviting and as relaxing as possible. Flip through a magazine or book or listen to some soulful music and generally get into meditative mood, impervious to the world. You can even do your own tea reading and get an insight into your state of mind.

HOT TIP
Take used tea leaves and wrap them in either a cloth or paper towel. Put hot water over them and place over your eyes for a tea spa treatment! It works like aromatherapy and is a great stress reliever for your tired eyes.

EXPERTS SPEAK
The very fact that tea grows in mists and mountains lends the brew certain mystical powers, like being able to predict the future. Tea has uses everywhere: In the garden, kitchen, cosmetics, medicines... Use it to dye clothes, to condition hair, for an eye spa, to colour hair. Tea helps boost your concentration and determination as it contains antioxidants, minerals, calcium and vitamins. So keep drinking tea and make it a good habit.