This noble drink will not only go perfect with your sweet nibbles, but it will also calm your senses and soothe your soul before you sleep.
Tea has been around for ages; sometime in 2737 BC, to be exact. The legend says that a Chinese emperor sat under a tree while his servant was boiling drinking water. The wind blew and leaves fell, some of them, straight down into the cauldron, and voila! Tea was made. The legendary tree, as it has been told, was a Camelia sinensis, which is part of, if not one of the most popular variants of tea around the world. The culture of tea spread from China and into the wide continents, first used as a medicinal drink and now, in modern times, a way to enjoy the moment while relishing in the sweet, fruity smell of a hot cup.
Whether making tea was an accident or a result of some genius, this hot drink has been a part of many daily rituals, and some couldn't live without it. The Brits are known to be attached to tea, which is why they especially have tea-time for their lounging hours. In Japan, tea has been a part of their solemn rituals, a noble work diligently performed by the aristocrats and the well-bred. In modern times, the refreshing matcha flavour has taken us by storm, invading our favourite food and beverages from donuts, chocolate and ice cream. However, long before, making this deliciously green tea required effort and does not come in the easy-to-sprinkle powder form.
Loved tea? If you're a true-blue tea lover, BuzzFeed has unleashed a post that lists down your possible traits, from knowing the exact color of your perfect cup, bringing tea bags in your daily essentials and soaking into the joyous ritual of making it. BuzzFeed also lists down that you might be British, but that's not a standard.
Tea for a terrific sleep
Historically, tea has remained popular even through the rise and fall of many kingdoms, and this can be attributed to its many health and soulful benefits. One of them? Sleep. Unlike coffee, tea still gives you a small kick of caffeine, but it doesn't stimulate your body; rather it calms your nerves. And if you have an afternon cut-off for an espresso (because it might affect your sleep cycle), tea can be enjoyed anytime of the day. Bedtime teas, in particular, were made of delicious ingredients packed with elements to boost your body's readiness for sleep. Some famous brands like Twinings and Celestial Seasonings pair off well-known soothing ingredients that imposes sedative effects on the body, which is why you feel more relaxed and sleepy after a cup.
Having problems in achieving a nice slumber? Tea might just be the thing you need. It is best ingested warm or hot, as it promotes proper blood circulation and cools down your body. The extra drop in your temperature signals your body that it's time to hit the sack.
Not all teas are equal. There are some varieties which are heavily caffeinated and will not give you the sleepy results you wanted. Read through the description; caffeinated black, white and green tea should be avoided especially at night. If you're in doubt when it comes to the ingredients of what's in your cup, maybe it's better if you make your tea yourself!
Here are some recipes you can follow:
Lavender Tea
The medicinal properties of this plant are nothing less than remarkable; it's packed with elements that helps your digestion, and anti-oxidants to keep your body aglow. Much more, its mild floral scent is alluring! Use this tea to calm your senses, as well as reduce cough and other respiratory concerns.
What you'll need in your cup:
Chamomile Tea
Blessed with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that enhance your overall health, a sip of Chamomile Tea will help your body heal as you go to sleep. It's a perfect weapon against lowering cancer risk, high cholesterol, diabetes and inflammation.
What you'll need in your cup:
Banana Tea
Your favourite fruit, simmered in a cup. Rich in potassium and magnesium, conquer your insomnia with this all-natural tea. It relaxes your muscles and blood vessels, helping you fall asleep quicker and longer.
What you'll need in your cup:
Rose Petal Tea
A handful of blooms make this tea fragrant, washing away feelings of anxiety before you go to bed. The secret behind this flavour: brewing all the herbs together, store in a glass jar, strain the petals and stir in the milk and honey.
What you'll need in your cup:
Cinnamon Tea
High in cinnamaldehyde, this tea packs a punch with its antioxidant properties. It helps reduce the risk of heart-health and improve insulin sensitivity, as well as balance blood sugar levels. Boiling and steeping the ingredients together will make a perfect drink. Store the rest of the tea away in a mason jar.
What you'll need in your cup:
Using these recipes as your evening drink, you can look forward to finer dreams and better mornings. Bedtime hasn’t been much sweeter. Now, change into your best pyjamas, turn the lights off, and good night.
