TEA IN TURMOIL

As days turned to weeks, most of us have found ourselves cooped up in the confines of our homes. The world pens down this global pandemic of CoronaVirus (COVID-19) with panic and fear surging and it’s hard to not feel overwhelmed. Worry and distress close in around me, inducing fits of anxiety, and I’m sure I’m not alone. During this time of uncertainty, I am trying to consume bouts of credible information twice a day. The rest of the time I am embarking on all the creative projects I sidelined because of preoccupation with university and work life. I am particularly finding cooking for my family very engaging.

And more than ever I am having hot brews that are especially effective in naturally calming me down. There is a long history of herbal teas with therapeutic benefits including Lavender, peppermint, lemongrass and several others. My go-to tea amidst the turmoil is Chamomile, my favourite companion of calm. The intensive stress levels have resulted in sleepless nights. Chamomile has been helped treat my Insomnia and in turn, reduces my anxiety around this time. The peace that transcends comes from the teas ability to relax the muscles and decrease irritability with some studies indicating its target on the brain and nervous system are the same as that of anti-anxiety drugs. Having said this, consult a medical professional before going off any prescription medications.

The tea has a bounty of other health and beauty benefits, it is very accessible in most supermarkets, during your next shop make sure to get a pack, you will thank me later. As leaves steep in piping water for about 5 minutes they release a warm floral aroma that transports from the noise of uncertainty to the serene still. The gentle taste lingers convincing you to take another sip and then another, I particularly enjoy my cups with a teaspoonful of honey paired with my favourite read of the day. My treasured tea lovers, I would love to hear how you are keeping your spirits up and if you have any favourite teas that keep you calm.

Till next time

Stay home and stay safe

Maggs,

If you enjoy chamomile this recipe is the perfect sweet treat for you.

Recipe

2 Gelatin leaves

45ml water (to soak gelatin leaves)

250ml cooking cream

60ml honey

2 bags Ketepa Sweet Chamomile

Berries and Mint to garnish

Method

1. Soak the gelatin leaves in water and set aside

2. Meanwhile in a small saucepan bring the cream and honey to a boil. Remove the gelatin from water and add to the mixture. Transfer cream mixture to a bowl.

3. In the same saucepan, bring milk to the boil and add 2 bags of chamomile tea. Set aside and steep for 5 minutes.

4. Strain the milk mixture into the cream mixture through a sieve and mix

5. Pour mixture into ramekins or glass jars and let cool. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.

6. Enjoy with fresh mint and berries.