Green Tea

Green tea is definitely a healthy drink anyone should consider including in the lifestyle. From improving general focus and attention to reducing risk of heart disease, green tea has a vast array of benefits you should know about! For example, green tea has a high concentration of compounds called polyphenols are known to protect the body against diseases. Like we mentioned, green tea can also improve focus as it contains lots of natural stimulants, including caffeine, which although not at the same levels as that found in coffee, may still help maintain alertness and focus. Whilst containing caffeine, green tea is also a great source of the amino acid L-theanine, which has a relaxing effect; it does this by increasing mood-enhancing brain chemicals including GABA, dopamine and serotonin. Green tea has also been known to aid in cholesterol management and in so doing this, will reduce the risk of heart disease, as well as associated health conditions such as strokes. Overall, green tea has many, many benefits that should encourage you to want to drink green tea. If so, then look no further than our very own range of loose leaf green teas!

Yes, green tea does contain caffeine. However, the amount of caffeine in green tea is generally lower than that in coffee or black tea. On average, an 8-ounce cup of green tea contains about 25 milligrams of caffeine. This is significantly less than the approximately 95 milligrams found in an 8-ounce cup of coffee. However, the exact amount can vary depending on factors such as the type of green tea and how it is brewed. It's important to note that the caffeine in green tea is often accompanied by other compounds such as L-theanine, which can have a calming effect and help to counteract some of the potential negative effects of caffeine. As with any caffeinated beverage, it's best to consume green tea in moderation and be mindful of your own personal sensitivity to caffeine.

Brewing green tea is a delicate process that requires careful attention to temperature and steeping time. To brew green tea, start by heating water to around 175°F (80°C), as boiling water can scorch the delicate leaves and result in a bitter taste. Measure out approximately one teaspoon of loose green tea leaves or one tea bag per cup of water.

Place the green tea leaves or tea bag in a teapot or cup and pour the hot water over them. Allow the tea to steep for about 2-3 minutes, but be mindful not to over-steep, as this can also lead to a bitter taste. If you prefer a stronger flavour, you can increase the steeping time slightly, but be cautious not to be excessive.

Once the desired steeping time has passed, remove the tea leaves or tea bag from the water. Green tea is typically enjoyed without any additions, but you can add a small amount of honey or lemon if desired.

It's important to note that different types of green tea may require slight variations in brewing techniques and steeping times, so it's always a good idea to consult the specific instructions provided with your particular variety of green tea. With practice and experimentation, you'll find the perfect brewing method that suits your personal taste preferences. Cheers!