Saturday, July 24, 2010

Healing Herbs From The Gardens~


Camellia sinensis~Tea...

Tea has become such a familiar drink that we have forgot it is also a potent medicinal herb.

The Chinese have been drinking tea since around 3000 B.C. and regard it as a good stimulant, an astringent for clearing phlegm, and a digestive remedy.

The three types of tea--green, black, and oolong are made from the same species.

Research shows that some green teas appear to reduce the risk of stomach cancer.

"Herbal Tea" is not a correct term...herbal infusions are called "Tisanes" if they are blended with a tea leaf then they are termed "herbal blends."

I believe there is a lot to be said for blends...the best of both benefits.

Many think herb tisanes and herbal blends only work for hot drinks...this is so not true. Ice cold herbal tisanes and blends are awesome.

Experiment...add a bit of stevia for sweetness and some fruit slices such as orange, strawberries and blueberries....yummy~

Visit Sage Hill Farms website for all your herbal needs...including Tisanes and herbal blends. They pack a powerful punch in many ways.

Bea Kunz...have a peaceful Sunday.

2 comments:

meemsnyc said...

I just made some mint tea today, with mint pulled from our garden. It definitely has a soothing calm, if not a healing effect.

BeaK. said...

Do you know which mint you are growing ...there are at least thirty species of mint.

Until the 17th century, all mints were used in much the same way, with little attempt to differentiate between varities.

Today Peppermint( I grow the Black )is prefered medicinally in the West; the Chinese use field mint( known as bo he )

Garden Mint is usually Spearmint and is excellent for children.

Most mints are pungent, dry, and cooling.

The volatile oil is mainly menthol.

Mint is a great digestive tonic, prevents nausea,relaxes peripheral blood vessels, promotes sweating while cooling internally, promotes bile flow for a healthier system.

Peppermint should not be given to children for more than a week at one time.(*no mint should be given to infants at any time )

Peppermint can reduce milk flow in nursing mothers...use with caution.

Black Peppermint makes a smashing cup of tea-blended with Lemon balm you have the Sage Hill House blend...awesome after dinner cuppa~