Description
Botanical: Camellia sinensis
Origin: China
Health Benefits: This tea has undergone very little oxidizing so retains many valuable nutrients. Catechins present in the brew stimulate fat oxidation and energy expenditure. It is also said to boost cognitive function and can reduce the risks of neurodegenerative disease such as Alzheimer’s.
Jasmine is a widespread climbing vine that has a distinct and highly aromatic flower. Jasmine tea was being enjoyed in China around the fifth century after the introduction of high grown Jasmine to the Fujian province. In Northern China Jasmine tea is often served as a way of welcoming guests and the delicate floral notes are definitely heart warming if not intoxicating. Because the golden liquor is light and thirst quenching it can be quaffed over an evening without leaving you feeling full. As with any good green the leaves can be re-steeped numerous times.
Brewing Instructions
The Common Gull Butterfly
Cepora nerissa
This butterfly, like wild Jasmine, thrives through much of Asia. The open wing pattern is striking but rarely seen because this butterfly always sits with it’s wings closed. The Gulls are nectar lovers and feed on flowers including Jasmine. They gather in great numbers as they prepare for their annual migrations.