Tea can be a great way to pump you up with energy for the day ahead or to wind down after a long day at the office. There really is a tea for everyone, and with this simple guide, you’ll find the perfect one for you in no time.
When you need an energy boost
When the day’s challenges seem insurmountable, chances are a black tea is what you need. Many black teas offer just as much caffeine as coffee does, but come in a wider variety of flavours. The most common black teas are Earl Grey and orange pekoe. The latter has arguably the most neutral taste in the black tea family, while the former is far more fragrant. It’s important to note that although these are the broad terms for the style of tea, different brands offer different flavours. Just because you find one Earl Grey too strong doesn’t mean another one might not hit the spot. If you want a black tea with a bit more kick, consider chai. It is infused with spices that make it a great way to start the day. Many people prefer to drink black teas with milk and sugar, so that may be something you want to experiment with as well.
To take a load off
On the opposite side of the spectrum, teas can also be very good for winding down. If you’re looking for a warm beverage to cuddle up with at the end of a long day, herbal teas are your best bet. These come in many different flavours, such as camomile, peppermint, honey ginger and fruit infused. Or for a sweet way to end the evening, add a drop of milk to a warm mug of vanilla rooibos tea. It’s comforting and delicious. The only rule when picking a calming tea is to make sure it is completely caffeine-free.
For a healthy kick
If you’re looking for a tea that will provide you with antioxidants and boost your immune system, then green tea is absolutely the answer. Numerous studies indicate that green tea has wonderful effects on the body. And if you find it a little too dull, you can easily dress it up with a squeeze of lemon juice and a tablespoon of honey.
Mix and match
Keep in mind that any given tea is made up of a variety of herbs and spices, so why limit yourself to what has been created for you? Don’t be afraid to mix and match different teas in a large pot of hot water and see what you come up with. For instance, combining one tea bag of green tea with one of peppermint can add a refreshing quality to an otherwise muted tea. Or mix spearmint and chamomile for a blend that does wonders for a sore throat. Some combinations might not turn out to be your favourite, but even so, what have you got to lose?
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