In the confusion after the Tang dynasty collapsed, no fewer than fifteen emperors came and went before a functioning central government was finally restored with the advent of the SongdyÂnasty in 960. The post-Tang Chinese knew little about the rest of the world, which they perceived as populated by barbaric … Continue reading
Steptoe and colleagues have just published an article (epub in advance) in the journal Atherosclerosis showing that drinking the equivalent of 4 strong cups of black tea for just 6 weeks decreases two major conditions leading to stroke and heart attack. C-reactive protein (CRP), a blood marker of inflammation associated … Continue reading
On my recent trip to China, I visited many different tea houses. Most were small, local establishments that weren’t particularly unique or special. Not unlike a neighborhood bar around the U.S., each one was only slightly different. Some were a little shabbier, some a little hipper; a few were busy … Continue reading
I write this post in hopes of stimulating some dialogue on the subject of fair trade certified teas.I would like to preface this post by saying that I am NOT an expert on the technical details or the official position taken by Transfair or other Fair Trade organizations. If I … Continue reading
Confusion and discrepancies abound as to what constitutes white tea. You will find white teas can vary greatly in size, shape and color from different parts of the tea producing world. This is because technically speaking white tea, as defined by the way it is harvested and processed, can result … Continue reading
After a long day of hunting and gathering birthday presents for my boyfriend in the Union Square area of NYC, I decided I needed a little pick-me-up before heading home. I pass the usual fast food and drink establishments. A frosty from Wendy’s? Nah. Starbucks? Not again. Then, as if … Continue reading