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The Best Tea Plants to Grow in Richmond, VA

Liliana Rosas
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The Best Tea Plants to Grow in Richmond, VA

In this post, we’re diving straight into the essentials. If you’re ready to start brewing your own tea right from your backyard in Richmond, VA, we’ve put together a list of the best tea plants for you to grow. These varieties are well-suited to the area, making it easier to enjoy homegrown tea with fresh, vibrant flavors. Let’s get started!

Camellia sinensis (Tea Plant):

  • Varieties: Consider both Camellia sinensis var. sinensis (Chinese tea) and Camellia sinensis var. assamica (Assam tea).
  • Growing Conditions: Thrives in well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Prefers partial shade but can tolerate sunlight.

Mint (Mentha spp.):

  • Varieties: Peppermint and spearmint are popular choices.
  • Growing Conditions: Mint prefers partial shade and consistently moist soil. Ideal for container gardening to control its spread.

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis):

  • Growing Conditions: Enjoys well-drained soil and partial shade. Lemon balm is known for its lemony aroma and calming properties.

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla):

  • Growing Conditions: Thrives in well-drained soil with full sun. Chamomile is an annual herb with delicate flowers used for a soothing tea.

Lavender (Lavandula spp.):

  • Varieties: English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is a common choice.
  • Growing Conditions: Well-drained soil and full sun. Lavender adds a fragrant and relaxing element to herbal tea blends.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis):

  • Growing Conditions: Enjoys well-drained soil and full sun. Rosemary’s aromatic leaves can be used to infuse tea with a unique flavor.

Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa):

  • Growing Conditions: Well-drained soil and full sun. Hibiscus flowers create a vibrant, tart infusion known for its antioxidant properties.

Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus):

  • Growing Conditions: Blackberry bushes thrive in well-drained soil with full sun. Harvest the leaves for a delightful and fruity tea.

Tips for Successful Tea Planting in Richmond, VA:

  • Soil Preparation: Ensure good drainage and consider amending the soil with organic matter to enhance fertility.
  • Watering: Maintain consistent moisture levels, especially during dry periods.
  • Container Gardening: For mint and other spreading herbs, opt for containers to control growth and prevent them from taking over your garden.
  • Winter Protection: Provide protection for more delicate plants during harsh winter conditions.

Discover the potential and fulfillment of growing your own tea in your own backyard in Richmond, and start your very own tea garden with these resilient tea plants. Whether you’re passionate about tea, just love gardening, or just looking to save money, there’s something special about growing and enjoying your own brews.

My Top 3 Matcha Tea Recipes

Liliana Rosas
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My Top 3 Matcha Tea Recipes

For me, matcha is not just a beverage; it’s an experience. Its rise in popularity is not surprising given the plethora of health benefits it offers. As I sit down to share my favorite Matcha recipes with you, I recall my first experience with Matcha and how I failed at attempting to remake it. It’s not a tea you can just “wing it” and there is a bit of a process to it. I also don’t recommend buying matcha from big chains like Starbucks, you’re losing out on most of the health benefits and personally I don’t think it tastes as good. There are some tricks you can try to make it tasty, and sweetening it is a must.

Over time, I’ve learned that matcha is more than a fad. Health-conscious individuals are drawn to Matcha for more than just its yummy taste. Packed with antioxidants, Matcha is known to boost metabolism, enhance focus, and provide a calming effect. The journey of discovering Matcha has been nothing short of a learning experience for me, and I’m thrilled to guide you some of the recipes I’ve learned and (kinda) mastered along the way.

Jump Ahead

Matcha Overview

For those unfamiliar with Matcha, it’s not just regular tea; it’s a finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves. Originating from China and later embraced by Japan, Matcha holds a special place in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies. The meticulous process of shading the tea plants and stone-grinding the leaves results in a vivid green powder with a unique flavor profile.

The traditional use of Matcha extends beyond a daily beverage. Matcha also symbolizes harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility in the Japanese tea ceremony. In essence, Matcha is a celebration of nature’s bounty and the artistry of tea-making.

Benefits of Matcha

Beyond its cultural significance, Matcha offers many health benefits. Rich in catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), Matcha possesses potent antioxidant properties. This translates to a boost in metabolism, aiding weight loss efforts, and promoting overall well-being.

The presence of L-theanine, an amino acid, contributes to Matcha’s ability to enhance focus and concentration while providing a calming effect. The combination of antioxidants and other nutrients makes Matcha a nutritional powerhouse, making it a valuable addition to a health-conscious lifestyle.

Top 3 Matcha Recipes – Simple and Easy

Recipe 1: Matcha Latte

Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon Matcha powder
  • 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
  • Sweetener of choice (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Heat the milk until hot but not boiling.
  2. Sift Matcha powder into a cup.
  3. Add a small amount of hot water to the Matcha and whisk until a smooth paste forms.
  4. Pour the hot milk over the Matcha paste and stir well.
  5. Sweeten to taste and enjoy your creamy Matcha Latte!

Personal Tips or Variations:

  • Experiment with different milk alternatives for unique flavors.
  • Adjust sweetness according to your preference.

Recipe 2: Matcha Smoothie

Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon Matcha powder
  • 1 banana, frozen
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup almond milk (or any preferred milk)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine the frozen banana, Matcha powder, Greek yogurt, almond milk, and sweetener of choice.
  2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. If a thicker consistency is desired, add ice cubes and blend again.
  4. Pour the Matcha smoothie into a glass and enjoy the refreshing and energizing goodness!

Personal Tips or Variations:

  • Experiment with different fruits like berries or mango for diverse flavors.
  • Add a handful of spinach for an extra nutrient boost.

Recipe 3: Matcha Ice Cream

Ingredients:

  • 2 teaspoons Matcha powder
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together Matcha powder and a small amount of the milk until a smooth paste forms.
  2. In a saucepan, combine the remaining milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, but do not boil.
  3. Add the Matcha paste to the milk mixture and whisk until well combined.
  4. Remove from heat and let it cool. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  6. Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  7. Transfer the churned Matcha ice cream to a lidded container and freeze until firm.
  8. Scoop and indulge in your homemade Matcha ice cream!

Personal Tips or Variations:

  • Fold in crushed cookies or nuts for added texture.
  • Drizzle with a bit of honey or chocolate syrup before serving.

Shopping List

  • Kettle – I love a whistling stove top kettle! This one is great.
  • Matcha – Not all matcha is created equally, be sure to buy the good stuff!
  • Whisk – A must.

Shop the full list here.

Enjoy

These Matcha recipes are not only delicious but also showcase the versatility of Matcha. I hope you find a recipe that works for you and begin to enjoy sipping matcha daily!

An All-Time Favorite: Onion, Ginger, and Chamomile Tea Recipe

Liliana Rosas
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An All-Time Favorite: Onion, Ginger, and Chamomile Tea Recipe

My favorite cup of tea

This is my go-to tea whenever me or my daughter start feeling under the weather, or if we’re already a bit sick or recovering. It’s also just delicious and I enjoy it regardless, especially on cold winter evenings. It’s so savory, and smells wonderful. I recommend it to every one I know, and I have been sipping on this recipe for over 10 years now. Enjoy!

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a comforting cup of tea to soothe the soul, and if you’re a fan of unique and flavorful brews, you’re going to enjoy this one! In this post, we’ll explore a delightful tea recipe that combines the earthy warmth of onions, the zing of ginger, the citrusy freshness of lemon, and the calming nature of chamomile. Get ready to enjoy my all time favorite blend. If you want a little extra zing, feel free to make it your own and add some paprika or other spices you enjoy, too!

Ingredients

  • 1-2 lemons (depending on preference)
  • Fresh ginger (peeled and crushed)
  • 1 onion (peeled and cut)
  • Chamomile (either dried whole flowers or tea bags)
  • Honey (for sweetness)
  • Water

Instructions

  1. Wash the Lemons: Start by giving the lemons a good wash to ensure they are clean and free of any impurities.
  2. Prepare the Ingredients:
    • Peel and crush the ginger, leaving it in substantial chunks.
    • Peel and cut the onion according to your taste preference.
  3. Boil the Water: Use a large pot and bring plenty of water to a boil. It’s essential to account for evaporation, so don’t be shy with the amount of water.
  4. Add Lemon, Ginger, and Onion: Once the water is boiling, add the prepared ginger, onion, and squeeze the juice of the lemons into the pot. Toss in the lemon peels, either whole or cut, for added zest. Allow the mixture to boil for a moment before lowering the heat to a simmer.
  5. Infuse with Fragrance: Let the ingredients simmer for around 30 minutes or until the aroma fills the air. This slow infusion ensures that the flavors meld together beautifully.
  6. Introduce Chamomile: Add the chamomile to the pot. Whether you’re using dried whole flowers or tea bags, this step brings a gentle and calming quality to the tea. Stir the mixture regularly during this stage.
  7. Strain and Pour: Once the tea has reached a beautiful yellow/brown hue and is richly fragrant, strain the mixture to remove the solids. Pour the liquid into your favorite teacup or mug.
  8. Sweeten with Honey: Add honey to taste, stirring until it dissolves. The honey not only adds sweetness but complements the other flavors, creating a harmonious blend.
  9. Enjoy the Fragrant Brew: Take a moment to appreciate the aroma and savor the unique flavors of your homemade tea. This fragrant delight is not only soothing but also a wonderful departure from ordinary tea blends.

Conclusion

With the combination of onions, ginger, lemon, chamomile, and honey, this tea recipe offers a sensory experience that transcends the ordinary. Treat yourself to a cup of this aromatic blend, and let its warmth envelop you, providing comfort and relaxation in every sip. Cheers to the joy of crafting your own tea masterpiece!

Benefits

Let’s discuss all the benefits of this super fragrant and delicious tea!

  1. Lemon
    • Benefits: Lemons are a powerhouse of vitamin C, known for their immune-boosting properties. The citrusy flavor adds a refreshing zing to the tea, while the vitamin C helps support the body’s defense against colds and flu.
  2. Ginger
    • Benefits: Ginger is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It provides a pleasant warmth to the tea and can help soothe sore throats, alleviate nausea, and reduce inflammation.
  3. Onion
    • Benefits: Onions contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. While they might seem unconventional in tea, their unique flavor contributes depth to the brew. Onions are also known for their potential to help alleviate respiratory issues.
  4. Chamomile
    • Benefits: Chamomile is famous for its calming and soothing effects. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help with sore throats and promote relaxation. Chamomile is often used to aid sleep and ease stress.
  5. Honey
    • Benefits: In addition to providing sweetness, honey has antibacterial and soothing properties. It can help coat the throat, offering relief for sore throats and coughs. Honey is a natural cough suppressant and adds a comforting touch to the tea.

Purpose of the Tea

  • Taste Profile: The sweet and tangy notes in the tea come from the combination of lemon, ginger, and honey. This sweet flavor profile makes the tea not only a soothing remedy but also a delicious beverage to enjoy.
  • Soothing for Colds and Sore Throats: The combination of ingredients in this tea creates a holistic remedy for colds and sore throats. The vitamin C from lemons boosts the immune system, ginger provides warmth and anti-inflammatory benefits, onions contribute to respiratory relief, chamomile adds a calming effect, and honey soothes the throat.
  • Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Support: The tea’s ingredients collectively work to provide anti-inflammatory benefits, making it a supportive drink during times of illness. The immune-boosting properties of lemon and the overall soothing nature of the tea contribute to a sense of well-being.
  • Aromatic Relaxation: Beyond its medicinal qualities, the tea offers an aromatic experience that promotes relaxation. The calming effects of chamomile, combined with the warm notes of ginger and the fresh citrus aroma, create a sensory treat that can be enjoyed for its calming influence.

This tea recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with benefits for your immune system, respiratory health, and overall wellness. Whether you’re craving something cozy or looking for a little relief during a cold, this blend has it all. It’s a winter-time favorite!

The Difference Between the Caffeine in Coffee and the Caffeiene in Tea

Liliana Rosas
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The Difference Between the Caffeine in Coffee and the Caffeiene in Tea

Most of us love a little (or a lot) of caffeine, so it’s no surprise that caffeine’s popularity as a natural stimulant is unmatched. It’s found in over 60 plant species and enjoyed in every part of the world, especially in coffee, chocolate, and tea. The caffeine content in any drink varies depending on the ingredients and how the drink is prepared.

While caffeine is considered safe, drinking too much may pose some risks. This is especially true for those with preexisting conditions. This article compares the caffeine in teas and coffees and explores which drink you should choose and why.

Tea preparation

The preparation method greatly impacts the caffeine content of tea. Teas that steep for longer and in hotter water tend to produce a more potent cup. For example, a mug of Tazo Earl Grey contains 40 mg of caffeine after 1 minute of steeping in 6 ounces (177 ml) of water heated to 194–203°F (90–95°C). This amount rises to 59 mg after 3 minutes. For comparison, Stash Green Tea has 16 mg of caffeine after 1 minute of steeping under the same conditions. After 3 minutes of steeping, this more than doubles to 36 mg.

WHAT IS L-THEANINE?

L-theanine is an amino acid found in tea leaves and certain types of mushrooms. It was discovered by Japanese scientists in Kyoto around 1949.

Research points to L-theanine being incredibly beneficial to those suffering from stress and anxiety.  

This marvelous amino acid has also been found to increase relaxation without causing you to be drowsy or lower your heart rate.

L-theanine can accomplish this by boosting calming brain chemicals. In the brain, you have neurotransmitters. GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), serotonin, and dopamine, to name a few. They regulate a few key things:

  • Emotions
  • Moods
  • Concentration
  • Alertness
  • Sleep Quality
  • Appetite
  • Energy

Levels of these brain chemicals that are linked to stress and anxiety lower. This leaves you calmer and more relaxed.  

Let’s not forget about those alpha brain waves (I’m sure that’s what you were thinking)!

Alpha brain waves are tied to being in a state of wakeful relaxation. It’s basically that feeling you get when you are in the zone. Think about the times when you’ve meditated (if that’s your thing), did something creative, or even let yourself daydream. You’re in it and immersed in that moment.

This is great if you’re trying to get in that zone and be productive because it can help enhance that frame of mind without making you feel fatigued or tired.

Studies have also found that L-theanine is excellent for your body’s immune system. Something we’re all kind of concerned about given the pandemic going on.

This remarkable amino acid has also been linked to cancer and tumor treatment. The research is promising, indicating that L-theanine can make certain chemotherapy drugs more effective.

L-Theanine & Caffiene

Think of L-Theanine and Caffeine as a compatible duo that compliment each other. They are the power couple we all aim to be.

Which is why tea is out drink of choice. Not only is caffeine found naturally in tea, so is L-theanine. Put these 2 together and you get a strong focus; with the boost in energy you aim for. And unlike with coffee, no jitters or anxiety. L-theanine combats certain down effects such as high blood pressure and anxiety which is why it makes such a good pair with caffeine.

L-theanine prevents caffeine crashes, and helps with sleep.

Overall, caffeine in tea is unmatched due to the benefits of L-theanine. We pick tea over coffee anytime.

Conclusion

Caffeine is great, but caffeine and L-theanine are a match made in heaven.

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