Pick Me Up in a Cup

by Cheng-Ling Chen — February 6, 2008

I am a big tea drinker. I love the natural and earthy aroma of tea, the steam that rises and fogs my vision ever so briefly, and the warmth of tea that travels from the top of my throat into my chest, spreading all over my body.

Tea is a wonderful way to relax and energize, whether you're taking a moment for yourself or sharing it with someone. Research shows that tea also has health benefits. Antioxidants that are contained in tea can help prevent cell damage, lowering risk of heart disease and certain types of cancers. Recent studies also suggest the link between green and black teas and healthy bones. According to a study from the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, bone density in tea drinkers is found to be higher than non-tea drinkers.

The more processed the tea leaves, the darker they turn. Green tea is the least processed tea, followed by black and red teas that are partially dried, crushed and fermented. Herbal teas are a different breed. Rather than being processed, they are infusions made with herbs, flowers, roots, or spices, and are also called "tisanes."

The next time you feel like a drink, instead of that latte or soda, how about a cup of tea? Skip the cream and sugar, and enjoy the pureness of tea. Let a cup soothe and revitalize you without loading you down with empty calories. A few of my favorites include:

• Bengal Spice: A sweet brew of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves with a hint of vanilla. Perfect for a winter evening.
• Aveda's Comforting Tea: An herbal infusion of licorice root and peppermint. Caffeine free and 100% organic, great as a post-dinner, pre-bedtime tea.
• Poricha: Korean barley tea with a slight smoky, nutty aroma. Also great when chilled. Quenches the thirst and refreshing like beer without the alcohol.
• Genmaicha: Japanese brown rice tea with a mellow, roasted aroma. Great tea for when you want something uplifting that is not too strong.
• Flavored Green Tea: Green tea has a natural, refreshing aroma, and there are many varieties to choose from. My recent favorites are pomegranate green tea and Muscat green tea. Both have a fruity flavor that takes away the edginess of green tea, a perfect pick-me-up.