The visitor who scratches beneath the surface of Taipei’s cosmopolitan outlook will discover a city that blends beauty with business to become a sociable and liveable city. A wonderful array of shrines, temples and other cultural relics can be found around Taipei, revealing the beliefs and history of the nation. Nightlife in Taipei is awash in colours of neon and twinkling lights that can keep one up till the early hours of the morn, dining, dancing or strolling the streets. Shop for rare and exquisite works of art, electronics, antiques, luxury items and a host of other goods when in Taipei.
Popular things to do in Taipei include, a cookery class from Jodie’s Kitchen, a visit to the National Palace Museum, Taipei 101, Shihlin Market, New Bei Tou Hot Spring, Chiufen, Long Shan Temple, Jao Ho Street, Danshuei and The Wisteria Tea House.
Popular among visitors not only for its aesthetic and cultural value The Wisteria Tea House was also the location of the film Eat, Drink, Man, Woman which starred Ang Lee. Serving as a meeting place for Chou Te-wei, a group of academics who believed in liberalism in the 1950’s, the tea house became host to many political movements in its time. Latterly it became the place of convergence for artists and political dissidents after the pro-democracy Kaohsiung incident in 1979.
With simple and tasteful interiors, visitors to the historical tea house can appreciate the age old art of serving tea. Located on Xinsheng S. Road in Da-an District of Taipei, this wonderful attraction is a worthy site to be visited.
Ginger is a popular addition to energy drinks, with good reason. You can get the energy and health benefits of ginger tea without purchasing these expensive and sugar laden drinks.
Instead, why not try ginger tea? You can purchase fresh ginger root in most supermarkets now. While the cost per pound is not very expensive, you do not need anywhere near a pound. I frequently purchase a small knob and use it fresh.
Ginger Tea Recipe
To make 4 cups of tea, start with a 1 inch piece of ginger. Peel the ginger and grate it coarsely or slice thinly.
Bring 4 cups of water to a boil and add the ginger. Reduce the heat and simmer the tea for 15 to 20 minutes depending on the strength you like.
Pour off the tea, or strain if necessary. Enjoy hot or cold. Many enjoy the tea as is, but you can also sweeten it with a little honey, and lemon is optional.
Ginger tea is commonly used as a cold remedy. It is said to boost the immune system, soothe sore throats, and treat bouts of flu. It is also believed to improve digestion and help relieve nausea.
Still not convinced to try ginger tea? Consider these known health benefits:
Improves circulation and blood flow Relieves cold and flu symptoms Eases stomach cramps, improves digestion and relieves nausea Reduces menstrual cramping Helps regulate blood sugar Boosts the immune system
Ginger tea is a healthy and spicy drink that will give you energy, boost your immune system and refresh your soul. Try a cup today.
What do you know about green tea? You have probably seen it in grocery stores. You have probably seen it in many food products.
You have probably even seen it in the coolers of every stop shop you went into, right there in the middle of all the other available sports and energy drinks. Green leaf tea has made quite an entrance into the world of energy drinks. But do you know the real advantages of green tea?
Research shows that the ingredients in green leaf tea can have an positive effect in the prevention of cancer cells. This comes from the study of Chinese people that were reported to have a 60% decrease in the occurrence of esophageal cancer when incorporating green tea into their diets.
The way green leaf tea works is through the powerful antioxidants it contains known better as catechin polyphenyls. Because these are strong in their antioxidant properties, green tea has become a super fighter against free radicals.
Free radicals destroy healthy cells in the hunt for missing electrons. When healthy cells are robbed of these electrons, that renders them damaged and they also become free radicals.
The chain of events after that is what causes aging and the breakdown of vital organs and tissue in the human body. Common sense would tell us that fewer free radicals would mean less damage. The fewer healthy cells that are damaged means also the fewer occurrences of diseases caused from cellular damage.
The polyphenyl named epigallocatechin gallate, EGCG, is present in green tea and is a compound in some vegetables as well. EGCG has shown promise in preventing uterine fibroid tumors.
This herbal extract has been around since around 200BC, originating in China. Since then, it has been used for its health benefits and is successful in doing so. Promoting your good health is always better by using natural ingredients.
Including a supplement into your diet that contains an extract of green tea is the best way to receive its benefits. Your circulatory system will benefit due to healthier cholesterol levels, you will feel more energized, and you will also experience better and younger looking skin. This is all due to the antioxidants present in green tea.
For even better healthy benefits, you should take a multivitamin that includes green tea extract as well as other health boosting herbal extracts like that of bacopa and myrrh.
The inclusion of these kinds of herbal ingredients in a supplement that has also essential vitamins and minerals means much more for your body to take advantage of. Choose the advantages of green tea and get healthier than ever before.
Vietnamese teas are produced in many areas of the region and in the country itself, many of the area tea retreats host wonderful views of either the teaming villages or city streets or intoxicating natural beauty from nearby rivers or forested mountains. Places that boast ancient Ruong houses built at the end of the 18th century and some modern structures geared specifically for western tastes but with Asian elegance. Asian Tea Review has some good copy of other regional teas that compliment this article.
It is in these locals that you will find a Vietnamese favorite, Jasmine tea. This beverage is typically used as both a restive social drink and as a palate cleanser. It is over deep discussions of poetry, philosophy, conceptual understanding or business that this drink is shared between business peers, foreign guests and potential partners.
Another use is after a strong cup of coffee, it is used to cleanse the palate and lighten the mood of Vietnamese iced coffee (which is typically much stronger than the western counterparts), and is poured into the glass after the coffee is consumed, allowed to chill. This is commonly shared with conversation at local coffee shops that are a popular social rendezvous on hot evenings.
Jasmine tea is produced in two grades but you must understand that each country grades teas differently and that there is no ‘international standard’. This being said, it is safe to presume that if a country is producing poor tea, the market will tell them. Some examples of how different countries might grade teas are based in the type of tea. And considering that Jasmine tea is laced with Jasmine and is not the tea itself, it is important to understand the foundation of the tea, which can come in a few different varieties such as black, green, white and oolong. Black tea is almost always graded on how it is processed, how much of the whole leaf is present, how many plant parts per million are present, the time of the year the leaf was plucked. White tea does not typically use time to determine the quality of the tea, but instead use the type of white tea for Jasmine tea. The two main types would be either Silver Needles or White Peony. Green tea is graded according to shape of the leaf and Oolong is according to the label of quality. This is somewhat ambiguous because it is labeled as ‘good’, ‘fancy’, ‘extra fancy’ and so on.
When you have gone through all this preparation to both find the right tea, the right place to consume it and the right company (or no company), what are you left with? A great experience. You get to consume of the best tasting teas around. Jasmine makes the tea taste almost sweet all by itself. It has a way of letting you relax and take everything in. The aroma is like the flower and a piping cup is a balm to the soul.
Green tea is a drink which has been around for ages and comes in various flavours one of which is ballerina green tea. It is renowned for treating numerous medical conditions from headaches to cancer. Green tea is a beverage which is popular with Asian countries like China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea and the Middle East. Research has been conducted both in Asia and in the West regarding the benefits of drinking green tea and ballerina green tea.
The Journal of the National Cancer Institute in 1994 published the answers of an epidemiological study, which advised that drinking green tea helps to reduce the risk involved in esophageal cancer in Chinese men and women at least by 60 percent! Cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, infection, cardiovascular disease and high cholesterol levels are some of the medical conditions where the goodness of green tea can be experimented on. Ballerina green tea proves to be an invaluable relief to a number of health problems. Catechin polyphenols, especially epigallocatechin gallate is the secret of the popularity of Ballerina green tea.
3 Ballerina Tea Dieter’s drink is made up of natural herbs and is one of the most popular types of Ballerina green teas. A formula within an old Chinese book of medicine is used in the preparation of 3 Ballerina Tea Dieter’s drink. As times has elapsed this drink has proved to be one of the most popular drinks for dieters. The drink consists of malva verticellate or Chinese mallow and Cassia Angustifolia or Senna but no chemical additives or caffeine. This drink is great for your health but before rushing out to buy it, consult with your doctor if it is suitable for you. Ballerina green tea should not be consumed if you are under medication or have diarrhea.
More Ballerina Green Tea Information
The benefits of Ballerina green tea are more profound if you following the instructions carefully. The instructions are very easy and sensible. Start by drinking small quantities initially and than gradually increasing the amount you feel comfortable with. 2-3 minutes should be sufficient for the green tea bag or loose green tea to soak in 2 cups of boiling water. Even so, you can dilute the tea with more water according to your taste. Afterwards, to get a stronger flavour use a single cup of boiling water, after a week has passed. Drinking a cup of Ballerina green tea, hot or cold, in the morning, evening and after meals is healthy, but you should not drink more than three cups of green tea in a day.
3 Ballerina Tea Dieter’s Drink Extra Strength is also considered as a wonderful remedy for weight control and constipation. It is a natural tea popular for its soothing and relaxing effect. This product contains green tea, orange peel, senna leaves, Malva Verticellate and has a natural flavor. It does not contain caffeine or any chemical additives. It is advisable to read the instructions carefully before drinking this beverage. Pregnant and nursing women should not consume this tea. Besides, children or elderly people suffering from any kind of medical condition are also prohibited from drinking this beverage.
Tea has long been a popular drink around the world, following the original use in Asia. An increasingly popular tea is Oolong tea, and although not as well known as Earl Grey or English breakfast, it does have a popular following in Asia, Europe and the United States.
Oolong tea is a traditional Chinese tea, and is classed as a blue-green tea, although it can range in color from green to black. This color differentiation comes about by levels in oxidation. Many people like the distinctive taste that although not as rosy as black tea does have less of the grassy taste associated with green tea. Oolong tea actually has a range of varieties including Taiwanese, from the country’s mountain ranges, and the Wuyi Mountains of Fujian. It is the latter venue that is often said to be the original source for the tea.
When the Oolong tea leaves are picked they can be either rolled into long curly leaves or into balls, although the curly leaves approach is the more popular processing method. Processing is normally a long set of steps which are altered to change the strength and taste of the tea. The leaves are left to dry in the sun to remove a proportion of the moisture. The Oolong tea leaves are then put into the shade to cool them down. The leaves are then deliberately bruised to allow for greater oxidation. The cooling and bruising are then repeated a number of times, depending on how much oxidation is required. Further oxidation is then stopped by applying heat, either through a machine or in a large pan.
The last parts of processing for Oolong tea comes about through dehydration and roasting. This last step allows, through changes in temperature, a different taste to be applied to the tea.
The tea is then ready to drink. Common practice has Oolong tea brewed at about 95
April 4, 2010
Whenever you purchase green tea at the store, you typically buy a carton of pre packed tea bags. However, many individuals buy green tea powder, commonly known as Matcha. They buy the powder, which is made up of newly ground leaves, which can be used as an ingredient for cooking, beverages, ice cream and many more. You can purchase Matcha powder at most health food shops and you can even locate green tea powder on online. It is also a many people’s preference to utilize Matcha powder instead of tea bags because the powder disolves in water more easily. If compared to the tea bags and the powder can also be used in food, too.
Using Green Tea Powder in Food
There are many recipes that use Matcha powder. In fact, you can make all kinds of things, not just food. For example, sprinkle the powder onto ice-cream, food, your drinks and many more. It also adds a nice green colour to you recipes. This is unique for parties and special occasions that need food and drinks to be a green color. Many individuals buy green tea powder and experiment with different foods and drinks to decide which variations produce the best results.
The powder has a unique and fresh flavor when added to food and is also a unique way to add colour to the presentation of your dishes. In today’s world green tea ice cream is quite regularly used as a special dessert in both western and eastern style restaurants. Why not try this at home as well?
If you’re unsure where to purchase green tea powder, contact your local health food store or search online. Your local health food shop associate will likely be well versed on the benefits and will probably advise you of several suitable products. If you advise them you’re only trying to locate Matcha powder, and they don’t stock it, ask them if they can order it for you. While not many people know about the health benefits of green tea powder, there are suppliers who are standing by, ready to serve you.
There is a font of information on the internet. On the internet is a haven for forums and websites dedicated to the subject. In addition it is also possible to research recipes that use green tea powder, which is why most people start to use tea powder to begin with.
Usually reserved for the “upper crust” of society, the formal Afternoon Tea has served as great entertainment for kings and queens for nearly two centuries. Beginning with the proper environment, many people love the art of taking afternoon tea in a tea room, the formal lobby of an elegant, old hotel, or the formal gardens of someone’s home. Certainly, an environment different from any other you may have experienced would be the most appropriate place to host your traditional English Tea Party.
Some Tea Rooms boast specialty items on their menu, conducive to their particular region. Michigan Cherry Scones are a wonderful find in Tea Rooms around the State! You will also find many interesting “tea related” gift items in many of these tiny, but traditional places. Look for a Tea Room that sells the same scone mix they use from their selected menu items.
Most teas begin with a sherbet punch served in tall, stemmed champagne flutes. This color and presence sets the stage for a party separate from the rest. It also gives guests the opportunity to mix and mingle before they are seated for tea. If you are hosting your Tea Party in a formal garden, be sure to use garden colors for your tablecloths and napkins. Try to create place settings that “sparkle” and compliment the gardens and your surroundings. Your menu should be a selection of small sandwiches, scones and sweet, but ever so light, savories. Beautiful garden strawberries and fresh fruit should accompany your plate of English scones.
Music playing in the background or a harpist at the entrance of your tea room will set the stage for guests arriving and anticipating an afternoon to remember.
April 3, 2010
Undoubtedly you’ve heard of green tea. But white tea? What is that?
White tea is getting more and more attention so it’s appropriate to examine what white tea is, exactly, and how it compares to green tea.
White tea is minimally processed, just like green tea. It is harvested just before the buds open and the buds still have white hair on them, thus the name “white tea.”
White tea has a sweeter, lighter taste than green tea. Like green tea, you should steep it in water that is below the boiling point.
White tea has slightly less caffeine than green tea (15 mg as opposed to 20 mg). The varieties of white tea include:
*White peony.
*Golden moon.
*Silver needle.
*White cloud.
Such poetic names.
White tea even has a more polyphenols (antioxidants) than green tea does. Here’s a list of all the wonderful things antioxidants do for you:
*Inhibit growth of cancer cells
*Reduce high blood pressure.
*Protection against getting a stroke.
*Improved blood flow to the heart.
*Reduce cholesterol.
*Inhibit the formation of blood clots in artery walls.
*Maintains even blood sugar levels.
*Lowers the risk for osteoporosis.
*Enhances immune function and helps fight infections.
*Inhibits the growth of bacteria that can cause gum disease, cavities, and bad breath.
Pace University conducted studies in 2004 that show that white tea is even more effective than green tea in killing bacterial viruses. It’s also especially effective in killing staph infections and killing the bacteria causes tooth decay.
The bottom line is that both teas are comparable and very, very good for you. Pick the one that you like the best and drink up!
April 2, 2010
Did you know that many common herbs and ingredients can be made into delicious healing herbal teas? When most people think of tea, they think of green tea, black tea or maybe even white tea.
Most people do not turn to everyday herbs to make tea from, but they can be of great benefit to your body. From aiding in weight loss to reducing blood pressure. It is truly amazing what results can be achieved by making these simple true herbal teas.
Cayenne for example added to a tea can help curb your appetite and aid in weight loss. Cayenne Herb is actually quite good when added to a tea and gives it a little kick!
Peppermint Tea can ease an upset stomach, and aids in digestion, especially after a big meal. It reduces bloating and gas and can stop naseau and motion sickness! If we just think about it, peppermint is usually a candy or mint provided at restaurants, and the digestive aid properties are why this is such a popular choice for the candy bowl on your way out of a restaurant.
Chamomile Tea can help to reduce stress and calms the nervous system. This is why Chamomile is often suggested as a sleepy time tea to help you to get a good nights sleep. Chamomile has long been known as a nervous system regulator and can really help those with the jitters.
Basil Tea can help to reduce swelling of the gums and treat gum disease! Who would of thought of drinking a tea made from basil. It is really quite delicious and if you are suffering from gum pain, drink up. This powerhouse herb will really provide you with results. Basil Tea is also used to treat disorders of the liver, lungs and even the brain.
The Recipe for Basil Tea is really simple. Take fresh water and bring to a boil. For each cup of basil tea, add 8 fresh leaves of basil to your teapot.
Let the Basil Tea steep for 8-10 minutes and drink this tea warm. Treat your brain, lungs and liver with this herbal tea remedy and holistic health tea.
I hope you enjoyed this article and seek out information on other herbs to add to your tea!
« Newer Posts —
Older Posts »