Growing up, my parents drank black tea every day, Lipton Tea more specifically. Every trip to the grocery store included Lipton Tea bags. We had a whistling tea kettle which resided on the back burner of the stove, but as irony would have it, it was the most used appliance in the house. I loved how that warm tea with a bit of condensed milk warmed me from the inside out.

As an adult I continued to drink tea, but had also introduced coffee into my routine. It was quick when on the go and it was hot. It was in 1997 I discovered Dr. Weil. I remember reading 8 Weeks to Optimum Health. (There is an updated released in 2007). I began to research Dr. Weil and was hooked. I learned of the benefits of green tea and an anti-inflammatory diet and began incorporating some of the practices and haven't turned back since.

Everyday I drink green tea. Almost everyday I drink black tea. Almost every night I drink a tisane. Most times there are no sweetners added to my teas and tisanes. When there is, I use honey or coconut sugar. This has become a part of my life. I must admit, there isn't much else I drink besides tea so it is not a huge accomplishment. Lately, I have been making Matcha Lattes. There is no doubting the calming effects of taking the time to prepare and enjoy a cup of tea. It is a must before a meeting.

Preparing your tea properly is the key to enjoying the tea. Green tea can be bitter if the water is too hot. Black tea can be overpowering if left in the water too long. You get the point. Below is a guide to proper water temperature for each type of tea.

Next time, let’s talk my favorite tisanes, Chamomile, Lemon Balm, and Ashwaganda.