THE TEA PLANT

(Camellia sinensis)

February is Festival of Camellias Month and one, Camellia sinensis, is also known as the Tea Plant. Did you know that all tea comes from the same plant and that it is classified as an herb because of its wide variety of uses? Camellia sinensis provides all the leaves which are processed into the three basic categories of tea – green, oolong and black. With more than 2000 varieties of the tea plant existing in the various growing regions, the result is thousands of teas, each with unique characteristics. The almost endless variety of subtle flavors comes from the infinite variations in growing conditions, picking and processing so that there is definitely a tea for every taste and every occasion. In addition, tea is just good for you, so start this year by adding tea to your daily routine!

• Tea is completely natural and contains B vitamins, riboflavin, niacin, folic acid, panthothenic acid, magnesium, potassium, manganese, fluoride, carotene, vitamin C, iron, zinc, chlorophyll and calcium
• Tea contains caffeine which is a stimulant of the central nervous system for a high level of concentration, less reaction time, general alertness as well as improving memory
• Tea’s combination of caffeine, tannic acid and the amino acid L-Theanine stimulate the cardiac muscle without raising blood pressure but increasing the metabolic rate
• Tea contains fluoride and tannins reducing the amount of oral plaque, dental cavities and gingivitis plus counters bad breath better than mint, parsley or chewing gum.
• Tea contains both fluoride and phytoestrogens, which are known to increase bone density even after adjusting for age, body weight, exercise, smoking and other risk factors.
• Tea strengthens the body's natural immune system to fight viral infections and is strong enough to kill disease causing bacteria
• Tea is a satisfying, calorie-free beverage that contributes to maintaining your daily fluid balance.
• Tea can be used externally to alleviate foot odor, itchiness of insect bites, soothe shot site and sunburn, reduce inflammation from arthritis, treat acne, heal planter warts and draw out infection
• Tea leaves tucked into your pillow can reduce blood pressure, relieve insomnia & soothe headaches or stuffed in shoes in “tea socks” can be used as deodorant

“Taste and see that the Lord is good;
blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.”
Psalm 34:8