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Brewing the Perfect Cup of Tea

8/25/2020

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By,
Valerie Lull
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This week I am writing about brewing tea. Brewing tea is a highly personal thing. Some like their tea hot, some like it iced, some like it stronger than others. Some prefer it with milk, and others with both milk and sugar. This week I’m going to give you some tips to help you brew  your perfect cup of tea.
  • Storage- Loose tea tends to pick up the odors of the kitchen so it is best to keep it in a tin or tea canister. Bagged tea us usually in individual wrappers so it is already protected.
  • Loose or bagged- This is a matter of preference. Some folks don’t like fussing with an infuser and having to measure the tea out and find bags more convenient.
  • Tea bags- They come in bleached and unbleached bags. Folks that are health conscious will often prefer the unbleached bags.
  • Quality of tea- The larger the particles of the tea the better. Some of the really inexpensive teas are merely the dust from the tearoom floor. Broken leaf or whole leaf are generally better. Also the more expensive teas are usually a better quality. A lot of it depends on which country or estate the tea comes from, the climate, soil conditions, amount of sun or water the plant is exposed to, and the amount of shade or sun the plant gets. There is also the question of pesticides and organic might be preferable to the regular teas.
  • How much tea to use – Bagged tea is already measured and one usually uses one one bag per cup, though with some teas you can get a second cup from one bag. For loose tea the rule of thumb is 1 teaspoon of loose tea for each person plus one teaspoon for the pot. This can vary with how strong you want your tea. If you want a stronger tea add more loose tea. It is supposed to be better than steeping it longer.
  • Water- Tea likes oxygen so fresh cold water is best. Purified water is generally preferable to tap water, if you have it available. The better the quality of your water, the better your cup of tea.
  • Temperature- The various different kinds of teas require different temperatures. Water for black tea should be about 208 degrees while green and white teas are better at 175 degrees. You may want to make your tea water a little hotter or colder depending on your preference. Personally for some green and white teas I prefer 165 degrees. A programmable electric tea kettle is very handy for this. You simply put in the temperature you want and the kettle brews it to that temperature.
  • Steeping time- There are charts available online that list the different teas and the temperature and steeping times required. Again this can be a matter of preference. A general rule of thumb is 2-3 minutes for black tea and herbal teas, 4-5 minutes for green and white teas.
  • Pouring the tea – It is a good idea to put some of the boiling water in the pot and swirl it around to warm the pot first then put in  the tea and the water.
  • Cream and sugar – This is also a matter of preference. Some prefer their tea straight, others prefer sugar and others prefer both cream and sugar. Generally green tea is taken without anything in it, though I have been known to use a little sweetener in mine. Herbal teas are usually taken without anything added to them.
  • Additional thoughts-  There are lots of things that can be added to tea to flavor it up; honey, agave, cinnamon, lemon. Experiment and find your preference. There are also many tea blends available and I get great pleasure trying out different kinds and finding the ones I enjoy the most.
I hope you find these ideas and suggestions helpful. For more information about tea go to my website at www.valerielull.com  

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Dark Chocolate is Good for You

6/27/2020

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By,
Valerie Lull, MH


​One of my favorite indulgences is chocolate. However, if you want to receive the health benefits you have to be careful what kind of chocolate you eat and how much. Emerging research seems to indicate that chocolate has a number of healing properties and may actually be good for you when taken in the right form and in moderation. Chocolate is chucked full of good things like flavonoids that reduce inflammation, phytosterols that help cholesterol levels, and antioxidants that reduce free radicals.  There are so many things that are good about chocolate I could write several blogs on the subject. Today I will hit the highlights.

Antioxidant – Antioxidants are substances that fight free radicals. Free radicals are atoms that have an electron missing and can damage your cells DNA. The antioxidants provide the missing electron and stabilizes the molecule. The damage free radicals can do can be the start of processes that lead to cancer, heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
Cardiovascular Problems – According to recent research chocolate can help coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, hypertension, high cholesterol, plaque deposits on artery walls and obesity.

atural Stimulant – Eating chocolate can produce a boost of energy both physically and mentally. This is partly due to the caffeine content and partly due to theobromine. Theobromine is an alkaloid in cacao that also can provide a boost of energy.

Cognitive Function – Cocoa is good for your mind. The flavonols in chocolate may help with cognitive decline.Flavonols can reverse age-related cognitive decline by increasing the strength of the connections of the neurons in your brain that aid in maintaining memory.

Mood Booster – There is a chemical reaction with chocolate called anandamide that blocks feelings of pain and depression temporarily. Some researchers call it bliss. Some evidence seems to show that it also sweetens up your love life.

Gut Bacteria – The good bacteria in your gut love to feast on chocolate. They turn it into anti-inflammatory compounds that fight inflammation, another underlying cause of chronic diseases like heart trouble, cancer and Alzheimer’s.
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Some guidelines – Don’t use this information as a reason to run down to your market and chow down on candy bars. There’s way too much sugar in them. If you want to eat good chocolate choose the dark chocolate with at least 70% cacao. It has less sugar and the higher the cacao content, the more health benefits you will reap. Eat only 1-2 squares a day. As the old saying goes, “all things in moderation”. If you are still worried about sugar content you can get cacao in capsule form and take a few each day. Cacao in capsule form can be purchased on the internet, your local health food store, or by mail order.You can also get benefits from hot coco, or from cacao beans that have been dipped in chocolate
To learn other ways to stay healthy go to my web site  www.valerielull.com  It is OK to have a chocolate treat if it is done with thought, care and moderation
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May 20th, 2019

5/20/2019

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Dandelion, Hibiscus, Diuretics

5/13/2019

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By,
Valerie Lull

A diuretic is a substance that removes fluid from the body. Diuretics are very useful for things like losing weight, easing the discomfort of PMS, or lowering blood pressure. There are several herbs that work as natural diuretics. These are usually gentler than many prescription diuretics. Today I’m discussing two popular herbs that have been used for hundreds of years. They are Dandelion and Hibiscus.

Dandelion
The French called Dandelion ‘pis-en-lit’, which literally means water in the bed. The leaves help remove excess fluid from the body by increasing urine production. Dandelion is easy to use. The leaves and roots can be made into a tea, or you can use capsules. The tea can be purchased loose or in tea bags. You can also use dandelion for culinary purposes and pick the leaves fresh for salads or soups. Roasting the root makes it into a coffee substitute. Some folks even make wine from dandelions, though I’m dubious about the wine being a diuretic.

Do not use dandelion if you are pregnant or nursing. There has not been enough research to determine its safety. If you are allergic to ragweed, daises and marigolds you might want to skip using dandelion.

Hibiscus
Hibiscus lowers the level of oxidation in cells. Oxidation can cause high blood pressure. Hibiscus can lower blood pressure as a diuretic by increasing the elimination of sodium without affecting the potassium levels. Potassium is important in balancing out sodium in the body. The ratio of potassium to sodium is very important in regulating blood pressure.

Hibiscus is popular as a tea. It is a sour tea, so you may want to use a sweetener of your choice. It is available in tea bags or loose. It is also available as an extract if the tea has too much ‘zing’ for your taste.

Hibiscus is not recommended for pregnant and nursing women. There is some evidence that it may cause miscarriage. Hibiscus may lower blood sugar levels, so diabetics be careful. If you wish to use any herb be sure to talk to your health care practitioner first.

Check out my website at www.valerielull.com

I have just published a new book Glorious Garlic. Enjoy. Feel Good and Live Longer. It is available on Amazon. www.amazon.com

References 
http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-706-dandelion.aspx?activeingredientid=706&
http://www.superfoods-scientific-research.com/medicinal-herbs/hibiscus-tea-side-effects.html
http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-211-hibiscus.aspx?activeingredientid=211&activeingredientname=hibiscus

Posted onMay 13, 2019Leave a commenton Dandelion and Hibiscus, Diuretics

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Lavender Tea for Anxiety

4/4/2019

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By
Valerie Lull, MH
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Lavender is a fragrant plant that is referred to in the Bible as nard or spikenard. It was used for centuries for all kinds of things from recovery after childbirth, to problems with digestion. It is still a popular herb in today’s world. There are different kinds of lavender. Some kinds are considered weeds.

The most commonly used kind of lavender for healing purposes is Lavandula augustifolia. There seems to be very little research on lavender in tea form. According to folklore, a tea can be brewed from lavender that can be used for anxiety and stress. Lavender tea can also help with bloating and digestive issues. Lavender tea can be applied topically  for skin issues.



The area where the most research has been done with lavender is essential oil. Several studies have shown that lavender essential oil may be beneficial for anxiety. It is used by aromatherapists to bring calm from stress. Lavender oil can be used as a massage oil which is very soothing. Lavender can be added to the bath to bring restful and relaxation.
Lavender tea is popular and can be found in most places that sell herbal teas. It can be found online. Lavender can be mixed with other herbs and teas to make a pleasant and calming beverage. Some popular combinations are lavender and green tea, lavender and chamomile, lavender and mint and lavender and white tea.


There is an almost endless list of herbs and spices that can be added to lavender tea. Exercise your creativity. See what you can come up with. Below is a recipe.


Lavender Tea


3 T fresh lavender flowers or 1 1/2 T dried lavender flowers
2 C boiling water
Honey or sweetener of choice
Lemon if desired



Put the flowers in an infuser or a tea pot. Add the boiling water and let the flowers steep 4-5 minutes. Strain and pour into cups. Serve with sweetener and/or lemon.

Sources:
Castleman, Michael, The New Healing Herbs, Rodale, 2009, p. 202

https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/lavender.html
http://medlicker.com/882-lavender-tea-benefits-side-effects
http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/lavender



Check out my web site at www.valerielull.com I have a new book coming out soon called Glorious Garlic!
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Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Healthy Teas
Ten Spices for Health and Longevity

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Limes for Heart, Joints and Weight Loss

3/25/2019

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By
Valerie Lull, MH
My first experience with limes was when I was about 10 years old. My mother and I were at a lunch counter and we were served limeade. It was delicious and it had a lot of sweetener that made it that way. Limes are a little, green citrus fruit that is popular in Mexican cooking. They are loaded with vitamin C and other healthful substances like antioxidants. They are also very sour. Mom always said they were more sour then lemons, though I think both are plenty sour.

Limes have many healing properties. They make your mouth pucker. This increases the amount of saliva in your mouth. The flavonoids in the lime juice also increases the secretion of enzymes and digestive juices, aiding in digestion. Other healthful benefits of limes include weight loss, support for your immune system, treating gums, peptic ulcer and scurvy.

Lemons and limes are often lumped together as nearly the same thing. The two fruits both contain antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. Research studies show that these properties may help to prevent heart disease, and certain cancers like colon cancer and breast cancer.  Some of the differences between limes and lemons are their appearance. Lemons are yellow and oval shaped, limes are green and round. Limes are more bitter than lemons, but that can depend on the individual and how they perceive the taste.

Lemon water is good as a tonic, and so is lime water. Some folks think a little lime juice in their water improves its taste which causes them to drink more and stay hydrated. Limes contain calcium, phosphorus, potassium and vitamin C. Lime juice is good for the skin.  Some authorities say that the citric acid in the lime juice speeds up the metabolism helping weight loss.

Lime water is easy to make. Here are the instructions:

Fill a pitcher with water and squeeze a whole lime into it..
You can add lime slices to the water if desired.
You can have it unsweetened or sweetened. If you wish to sweeten it I suggest stevia.
The best flavor of the lime water is within the first day.
Serve and enjoy!

Be sure to check out my website at www.valerielull.com
I am coming out with a new book soon. It is called Glorious Garlic!
​

Sources:

https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/fruit/health-benefits-of-lime.html
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/lime-vs-lemon
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322556.php

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Cilantro

2/24/2019

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By
Valerie Lull
Cilantro, Coriandrum sativum,  is a green parsley like herb that is used frequently in Mexican, Latin American, Mediterranean and Asian cooking. It is also called Chinese parsley and Coriander. Coriander is mentioned in the Bible and is a herb used by ancient Peoples. Beginning cooks often mistake coriander for flat leaf parsley. Cilantro works well as an accent to spicy foods.

Cilantro has many constituents that have preventive and health promoting  properties. In some ways it is similar to dill because both the leaves and seeds are used. Coriander has dark green leaves and stems that are slightly citrus in flavor.
Cilantro is low in calories and possesses antioxidants, essential oils, vitamins and fiber. The vitamins include Vitamins B, C, A and K. Cilantro has minerals like potassium, calcium, manganese, iron and magnesium.

Medicinal uses include antiseptic and carminative properties. Cilantro has phytochemicals like quercitin, and essential oils. These substances are traditionally used as analgesic, aphrodisiac, anti-spasmodic, deodorant, digestive, and stomachic remedies.

Cilantro is known for being a toxic metal cleanser. Chemical compounds in cilantro bind to toxic metals and escort them out of the body. Cilantro has been shown to improve sleep, cleanse fungal conditions, and have anti-anxiety properties.
Personally I love the smell of cilantro and use it in my Mexican food recipes.  Here is a recipe you may enjoy.

Cilantro-Lime Dressing

1 Jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
1 Clove garlic
3/4 t minced ginger root
1/4 c lime juice
1/3 c honey
2 t balsamic vinegar
Salt to taste
1/4 c cilantro leaves
1/2 c olive oil

Place jalapeno pepper, garlic and ginger in a blender and blend until jalapeno and garlic are finely chopped. Add lime juice, honey, vinegar and salt. Turn on the blender and drizzle olive oil into dressing. Season to taste with salt. Serve over your favorite salad.

Be sure to check out my website at www.valerielull.com

Check out my facebook page www.facebook.com/BookTenHealthyTeas

References
http://www.foodterms.com/encyclopedia/cilantro/index.html
http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/cilantro.html
http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/health-benefits-of-cilantro/
http://allrecipes.com/recipe/167260/cilantro-lime-dressing/
Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Healthy Teas

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Olive Leaf Tea

2/17/2019

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By
Valerie Lull, Master Herbalist
Most people are familiar with olive oil and its many health properties, but did you know the leaves of the olive tree also have healing properties, perhaps more than the oil! I have always used olive oil because of its rich health benefits. Olive leaf tea was new to me. In Mediterranean areas olive leaf tea is a common tea used for treating disease. They have been using it for centuries. Traditionally it has been used for colds, malaria and tropical illnesses.


There is a substance in olive leaves called oleuropein. Scientists think this may be what has the healing effects for diseases like high blood pressure, diabetes, high levels of lipids and cardiovascular disease. There has not been a lot of research on olive leaf tea, but there is quite a bit of research on olive leaf extract.


Olive leaf extract is known most for its effects in lowering blood pressure, but it is good for many other things as well. Research seems to show that it is good to both prevent and treat hypertension. It works so well that if you are taking a blood pressure medicine check with your doctor before taking the olive leaf extract as the combination may make your pressure go too low.


Olive leaf tea is a good replacement for black tea and it contains antioxidants and vitamin C. Olive leaf tea is soothing and relaxing. It gives one a sense of well-being.  The tea can be brewed for a few minutes, or if  you like it stronger brew it for longer. Olive leaf tea contains zero caffeine.


Here is how to brew a cup of olive leaf tea.  It can be purchased on the internet.
1 T dried olive leaves
1 C boiling water
Steep leaves in a tea-pot for 15 minutes. Serve. Lemon and/or honey can be added to enhance the flavor.


I’d like to invite you to visit my website at www.valerielull.com


I have a new book coming out this spring. It will be called Glorious Garlic!
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https://olivewellnessinstitute.org/olive-leaf/olive-leaf-tea/
https://www.lifeextension.com/magazine/2013/6/Unexpected-Benefits-of-Olive-Leaf-Extract/Page-01
https://www.oleaft.com/olive-leaf-tea/
https://joybileefarm.com/olive-leaf-extract/

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Jasmine Tea

1/27/2019

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By
Valerie Lull

Jasmine tea is quite popular. It has been used in China for hundreds of years. It is a blending of green tea leaves and jasmine flowers. Green tea is known for its health benefits and adding jasmine makes a winning combination that is even better. The tea has a lovely scent and is quite soothing. Besides its scent and its pleasant taste there are numerous health benefits.


  • Lowering cholesterol
  • Calming and soothing effect
  • Lower risk of stroke
  • Antioxidant protection
  • Weight loss
  • May help prevent cancer
  • Help lower high blood sugar

Jasmine tea is probably best known for weight loss. It is a low-calorie beverage and a good substitute for soda. It also contains caffeine which has metabolism boosting benefits. A cup of tea has significantly less caffeine than a cup of coffee and tea has other constituents that help with weight loss.


Jasmine tea is usually made with green tea, though black tea and oolong tea can also be used. The black tea has more caffeine than oolong and oolong has more than green tea. If you are sensitive to caffeine you can get decaf tea.
Another promising aspect of jasmine tea is that it can help lower LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol.  It can also be beneficial for preventing heart disease stroke, diabetes and cancer. This  is most likely due to the antioxidants.  polyphenols, which include catechins, flavonoid and tannins, and anti-inflammatory properties in the tea.


Jasmine is  generally safe for most people. Pregnant women should talk with their health care practitioner before using. The caffeine may bother sensitive individuals. Caffeine free varieties are available.


Check out my website at www.valerielull.com


Coming soon new book Glorious Garlic! Spring 2019
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References
https://www.amazing-green-tea.com/jasmine-tea-benefits.html
https://www.livestrong.com/article/23665-health-benefit-jasmine-tea/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15976995
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15976995
https://www.wellnessresources.com/news/the-effects-of-green-tea-on-weight-management
https://www.cupandleaf/blog/jasmine-tea-benefits



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Chrysanthemum Tea

1/16/2019

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By
Valerie Lull
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January is National Hot Tea Month, so I am writing about chrysanthemum tea. Chrysanthemum tea is one tea I was not familiar with but I discovered its been used for centuries. It is quite popular in China where it is an important part of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Chrysanthemum, also called mums, produces a beautiful flower. The tea is usually made from the flowers of Chrysanthemum morifolium or Chrysanthemum indicum. The flowers come in  yellow and white. The tea is made from the flowers and is often compared to chamomile because of its calming properties. Historically and according to folklore chrysanthemum is good for anxiety, high blood pressure, respiratory problems, rheumatism and hyperthyroidism. In Chinese medicine it is good for the lungs, liver, kidneys and spleen. It is also a diuretic.

Chrysanthemum tea is easy to make. Use boiling water, I like it at 90 degrees. Put 4 flowers in a cup and pour the boiling water over it. Brew for 3-4 minutes. Serve hot or cold as desired. This tea is caffeine free for folks who are watching their caffeine intake.

Chrysanthemum does have side effects. It can make the skin extra sensitive to the sun. It is not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women. Chrysanthemum is a member of the daisy family and if you are allergic to any plants in that category you may be allergic to chrysanthemum too. As always check with your health care provider before taking chrysanthemum tea.

Check out my website at www.valerielull.com
Also my facebook page Ten Healthy Teas
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https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/how-chrysanthemum-tea-benefits-health#4
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-904/chrysanthemum
https://www.happyjuicer.com/make-chrysanthemum-tea.aspx

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About Valerie Lull

Valerie is a graduate  from the American College of Healthcare Sciences. She has always had a passion for good health and the health benefits of herbal preparations. At the age of 45 Valerie was diagnosed with Type II Diabetes and became interested in natural ways to maintain health. She has a desire to share this information and show people how  easy it is to stay healthy.

About Valerie's Books

Valerie has written a book called Ten Healthy Teas. Sometimes staying healthy is as simple as drinking a cup of tea. Valerie just published her second book Ten Spices for Health and Longevity. Valerie also writes a weekly blog called "Simple Ways to Stay Healthy".