HERB NAME: Green tea (Camellia sinensis) is a member of the Theaceae family. In truth, green, white, and black teas are simply differently processed leaves from the same plant. Red tea, however, often comes from the Aspalathus linearis plant, commonly called Rooibos.
COMMON NAME: Tea, green tea.
THERAPEUTIC QUALITIES & USES: Tea has many uses and offers many benefits. Among these are reducing inflammation and pain alleviation for sunburns, insect bites, and eye issues including allergies and conjunctivitis. [1]
Green tea is:
- Analgesic – It helps to reduce pain.
- Antispasmodic – Calms involuntary muscle responses.
- Antiviral – Effective against viruses.
- Antioxidant – Helps fight free radicals.
- Astringent – Causes body tissues to contract.
- Diuretic – Increases urine output.
- Nervine – Calms and supports the nervous system.
Additionally, green tea has been found effective in helping with cholesterol, as well as soothing anxiety in some people.
The caffeine content of green tea is less than black tea but greater than what is found in white tea. This is due to the processing of the leaves. Green tea is processed quickly once picked, generally through steaming and rolling. {2}
Skincare is another use of green tea, as its astringent action helps to tighten pores and may help to reduce fine lines on the face.
Many people have found that green tea is helpful in their weight loss journey, and for boosting health with the antioxidant properties.
SYMBOLISM: Tea, in general, is representative of tranquility, community, and long life. [3] It has a history spanning more than 4500 years, beginning in China and spreading to other locations such as Japan, Sri Lanka, and India. [2]
SPIRITUAL CONNECTIONS: Green tea helps us connect to the earth, promoting a sense of peace and harmony, leading to enlightenment. Green tea may also be found in magical workings around prosperity and longevity.
HOW TO USE / RECIPE:
Green tea can be bitter if steeped too long, however, can be enjoyed both hot and cold. It blends well with different types of berries, citrus fruits, cranberries, and pomegranate. It can be sweetened with honey, which will take the edge off the sometimes strong flavor.
To make a cup, simply add freshly boiled hot water over the leaves and allow to steep for 3-5 minutes. Don’t forget to savor the aroma, and sip slowly. Make it a meditative process, and you will feel your stress melting away.
To use in skin care:
Make a cup of tea, allow it to cool. You can use it as an astringent rinse after washing your face, or as part of a facial scrub (blend equal amounts of ground rose petals, almond, and oatmeal, moistened with the green tea. This gives you a nutrient-rich, moisturizing facial scrub).
Other herbs that blend well with green tea are…
- Cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon) – Add a bright, tart flavor to the tea, as well as boosting the vitamin C, and antioxidant levels.
- Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa) – Boosts energy and calms the nerves.
- Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) – Great for when you’re under the weather and need to improve relaxation while supporting the immune system.
- Linden blossom (Tilia, spp) – For those times with unavoidable stress (job changes, final exams…)
- Rose (Rosa spp) – Soothes and helps you connect with your inner goddess.
Available in my Etsy shop:
Indulge your senses with a Ritual Bath, sipping a divine tea in a unique antique cup & saucer, while enjoying the gentle flicker of a votive candle. Afterward, pamper your skin with an all-natural, gentle lotion and face serum, to help seal in moisture and smooth away cares.
Bath tea: Bath salt blend, blend of organic green, lavender, calendula, and violets. Lightly scented with lavender essential oil.
Drinking tea: Blend of organic green, lavender, and violet leaf.
Lotion: Distilled water, olive oil, emulsifying wax, lavender essential oil.
Face serum: A soothing, proprietary blend, of organic jojoba, almond, hemp, and argan oils, lightly scented with Frankincense and Ylang-ylang essential oils.
References:
- https://anniesremedy.com/camellia-sinensis-tea.php
- http://www.madehow.com/Volume-5/Green-Tea.html
- http://weknowyourdreams.com/tea.html
*Disclaimer: Linden Tree Intuitive would like to remind you to consult with your doctor for all things medical. We do not diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any illness or disease. All material in this blog is for informational purposes only, and you are encouraged to do your own research and question everything!
