• The Perfect Cup of Tea
• Venezuelan Medicinal Plants: A Slideshow
• Edible and Medicinal Plant Walk
• Meadowsweet Herbs' Holistic Healing Center: Allergies

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The Perfect Cup of Tea

OK, I admit it. Over the last several years I have become a tea snob. After experiencing truly exceptional teas, for me, there is no going back to that average cup of tea. Think of appreciating loose leaf tea as you would a good glass of wine.  Every quality tea has a unique flavor and style that reflects its origin, varietal, vintage and artisanal method of processing. Brew it using complimentary tea ware, savor its nuance and complexity, and enjoy the invigorating experience that each cup brings.

Here is how:

• Bring fresh water to a boil (avoid distilled water, mineral water and tap water when making tea)
• Cool water if necessary.
• Loose leaf tea is a great value as it can be infused multiple times. Simply increase the steeping time by 1 minute with each subsequent infusion. Notice the distinct characteristics of each infusion.
• Keep tea tightly sealed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and strong odors. Do not store near spices or in a refrigerator.
  

Brewing Instructions

These brewing instructions are only a guide. Each person has a unique palate, so experiment with your infusions to determine what´s right for you.

Preparing Iced Tea

To make an iced tea, simply infuse twice the amount of tea or herbs using the same preparation method (i.e. 1 tablespoon for hot tea becomes 2 tablespoons for iced tea.) Dilute 1 part of the double strength tea infusion with 1 part water.  Pour over ice, enjoy!

Tea Categories

Tea is the second most consumed beverage after water.  It originated in Southeast Asia during pre-historic times and today, is cultivated in over 35 countries. While all tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant, each varies greatly depending on the region and climate, elevation, soil type, season in which it's harvested and the processing techniques used. Much like wine, each tea has a unique flavor and style that reflects its origin, varietal, vintage and artisan method of production. The tea categories described below are not exhaustive but they are a few of the main categories you will come across.

White Tea

• Originated in China's Fujian province
• Least processed of all teas; little to no oxidation
• Lowest caffeine content
• Very high in antioxidant polyphenols or tea catechins
• Milder flavor without bitterness; sweeter finish than green tea
• Refreshing and delicate, great with light foods, fruits and between meals

Green Tea

• The finest green teas are produced in several regions throughout China and Japan
• Processed with the intention of preserving the tealeaf's green character so they are heated by roasting or steaming soon after harvest to prevent leaf oxidation
• Five basic types of green tea: steamed, pan fried, bake cured, sun dried and combination
• Green Tea offers a wide variety of taste profiles ranging from bittersweet, grassy to savory and slightly sweet
• Highest content of antioxidants

Oolong Tea

• Cultivated in China's southeastern Fujian and Guangdong Provinces and Taiwan
• Traditionally pronounced Wu-long
• Semi-oxidized, with processing styles that range between a green and black tea
• Research shows oolong helps reduce cholesterol, lower blood sugar levels and aids in weight loss
• Flavor profiles range from toasted and robust, light and flowery to full-bodied and naturally fruity

Black Tea

• The highest quality black teas are produced in China, India and Sri Lanka
• It is the most oxidized of all tea, resulting in dark color
• Its strong full-bodied flavor and higher caffeine content make it an ideal morning tea and a great alternative to coffee
• High content of antioxidants and essential oils
• Flavor profiles range from crisp with notes of fruit and wild flowers to full-bodied and malty with hints of caramelized sugar

Pu-erh Tea

• Often referred to as "The tea that gets better with age" and "slimming tea"
• Ancient form of tea originating in Yunnan province of southwestern China
• Prized for its bold and earthy taste, full body and health benefits
• Helps metabolize fatty acids and oily foods, lower cholesterol and detoxify the bloodstream
• Two distinct types: Sheng pu-erh (raw or green) and Shu pu-erh (ripened or black)
• Pairs great with spicy, sweet and rich foods (best consumed during or after a meal)

Introducing Rishi Tea

We are proud to introduce you to a new (to us) line of exceptional teas now available at Meadowsweet Herbs. Rishi Tea was founded on the commitment to set the standard for quality and expand the awareness of tea and its rich, inspirational tradition. Rishi Tea has been a leading importer of Organic Certified tea under the USDA-NOP regulations since the start of the program in 2002, and prior to that, under strict European Union standards. Learn more about organic tea certification and why organic is better for the environment, and better for us. Rishi Tea has been at the forefront of Fair Trade Certified tea production for years. Rishi Tea took home an unprecedented 28 awards, including a stunning victory of 11 First Place winners at the 2009 World Tea Championship!

Venezuelan Medicinal Plants: A Slideshow

Join presenter Sarah Russo, a student at The Evergreen State College studying social justice, environmental studies, and medicinal plants. Sarah will give a picture slideshow documenting the time she spent in Venezuela through her course Venezuela: Building Economic and Social Justice at The Evergreen State College.  Sarah will discuss Venezuelan's base knowledge of plant medicine and give an overview of the plants from her guidebook, which she created in English and Spanish.  Sarah will also discuss the ability to study natural medicine through experience-based learning and to share about how to take a self-sufficient approach to your health. 
Tuesday June 2nd, 7 -- 9 pm
Cost:  Free

Edible and Medicinal Plant Walk

Join Herbalist and owner of Meadowsweet Herbs Elaine Sheff and the Montana Natural History Center for a unique collaboration. Elaine will be discussing many medicinal and edible herbs, both native and introduced, including horsetail, burdock, cleavers, motherwort, dandelion, poplar, hawthorn and plantain.

When: Saturday June 20, 2 pm -- 4:30 pm

Where: Meet at MNHC, 120 Hickory St. at 2 pm. Everyone will carpool over to Greenough Park.

Cost: $20 Class Fee, $15 MNHC Members

Space is limited, registration required. Please call MNHC at 327-0405 to reserve your spot

Meadowsweet Herbs' Holistic Healing Center

Happy Summer!

With the arrival of early summer we also witness the arrival of numerous plant pollens, happily transported by the wind to disseminate their important information.  Some of that information translates into allergic responses for many of us.  Whether you are feeling stuffy and congested, or you are struggling with chronic sinus problems, consider addressing your hay fever season and environmental allergies with the help of botanical medicine. 

Welcome the summer; learn how to be less allergic and welcome greater health and well-being!  Schedule a consultation with Clinical Herbalist Britta Blodorn to discuss your individual situation and learn about the healing properties of our plant allies. Call 728-0543 to make your appointment.