Tea 101

2 min read

Discover the amazing varieties of tea and their health benefits, and ways you can welcome this ritual into your daily routine.

Tea holds a very special place in my life. I know some of you may be thinking it’s that odd one food or drink can hold so much space in a person’s life, but it’s true.

It’s far more than a hot beverage, it’s the ritual, the routine, the present moment-ness and mindfulness cultivated during making tea and sharing tea with loved ones that makes it so special. I truly enjoy the whole process of heating the kettle, waiting to hear the whistle, pouring the hot water, and letting it rest before snuggling my hands around the mug and enjoying a cup.

So whether tea already has a special place in your life, or you’re just starting to learn more about drinking tea, I hope this post guides you in picking out your favorites. All it takes is your favorite mug, hot water, and the tea. Then, it’s all about enjoying the moment. Cheers!

Why tea is so good for you!

Most Common Types of Tea and How to Make Them

Black Tea

Herbal tea

First off, herbal tea isn’t technically a “tea” as it’s a combination of spices, herbs, flowers, or any of those mentioned combined with a type of tea. For example, peppermint green tea is a combination of mint and green tea leaves.

These are fantastic teas for those of you just starting out drinking tea as they tend to have more familiar flavors and can be fruity, naturally sweet, and delicious. But don’t underestimate the power of drinking herbal teas. There are many herbal/medicinal grade teas made from herbs, spices, and flowers that make an incredible addition to your tea cupboard.

My favorite: Peppermint, rooibos, chamomile, lavender, ginger, dandelion root, milk thistle, fennel, stinging nettle
Taste: can be fruity, bold, robust, bitter, neutral, or sweet depending on the herb
Make it: Brew most herbal teas with near-boiling water and let steep anywhere from 4-15 minutes. For example, ginger and many strong herbal teas are stronger the longer they steep. Try my Turmeric Tea!