Author: Vanessa Bandgate

Hey there! I’m Vanesa Bandgate, a 30-year-old tea enthusiast who believes that every cup tells a story. My love for tea has taken me on a journey across flavours, regions, and traditions, and I’ve created this blog to share that adventure with you. Whether it's the earthy notes of a pu-erh or the delicate aroma of a jasmine green, I’m here to guide you through the beautiful world of tea. From brewing tips and tasting notes to the rich history behind each blend, my goal is to help you discover the magic in every steep. So, grab your favourite cup, and let's explore the world of tea together! ☕️✨

You’ve heard the buzz about kombucha, right? This fizzy, tangy drink isn’t just trendy; it’s a health powerhouse. But what if you want to brew your own batch and you don’t have any starter tea? No sweat! I’m here to guide you step-by-step through creative fermentation, so you can whip up delicious kombucha without skipping a beat. Key Takeaways: – Kombucha is packed with probiotics and offers various health benefits. – You can experiment with different teas and sweeteners to create unique flavors. – Troubleshooting common issues can ensure your brew is a success. – The fermentation process is adaptable…

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We’re obsessed with tea, right? It’s comforting, warm, and there’s nothing quite like a good cup to kick back with after a long day. But have you ever stopped to think, why does tea have caffeine? I mean, we enjoy our tea for its rich flavors, health benefits, and rituals, but that caffeination—what’s the deal? Here’s the scoop: caffeine is an integral part of tea’s charm. In this post, I’m breaking down everything you need to know about caffeine in tea—from how it works in the tea plant to its effects on your body and mind. So, strap in; it’s…

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If you’re like me and have an ever-growing obsession with matcha, you’ve probably wondered about its acidity level and how it stacks up against other teas. You might be sipping that vibrant green cup thinking it’s doing all these amazing things for your health, but does its acidity play a role? And how does matcha measure up against your everyday green or that classic black brew? Strap in, because we’re about to break it all down. Key Takeaways Matcha tea generally has a lower acidity level than coffee-based drinks and some fruit-infused teas, making it gentler on your stomach. Compared…

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Horsetail tea isn’t just a drink; it’s like a little magic potion packed with goodness straight from the earth. If you’re on the hunt for something that checks a lot of boxes—like a boost to your health, a natural remedy whispering from centuries past, and a unique flavor experience—then you might want to keep reading. Brewing horsetail tea is straightforward, but there’s a lot more to it than meets the eye. Let’s get into it. Key Takeaways Horsetail tea is made from the Equisetum plant, renowned for its health benefits. Proper ingredients and brewing techniques can enhance the tea’s flavor…

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Kombucha, that fizzy, tangy elixir we can’t get enough of! If you’re like me and love to brew up your own batches, you know the thrill of that first sip of your perfectly crafted flavor. But wait! How do you make sure it stays fresh and fabulous? The secret lies in how you store that liquid gold. Get ready, because I’m about to break down everything you need to know about storing kombucha for optimal flavor and quality. Key Takeaways Temperature is crucial—keep your kombucha in a stable, chilly environment to lock in its zest. Light can be a flavor…

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If you’re like me—maybe a tea enthusiast or just a casual sipper—you know that there’s nothing worse than taking a whiff of stale tea leaves or brewing a cup that’s lackluster at best. You want your tea to pop, to burst with aroma and flavor, and that’s why proper tea storage isn’t just some boring tip; it’s the secret to having a stellar brewing experience every time. I’ll break down everything you need to know about keeping your prized leaves fresh and flavorful, tailored just for you and your glorious tea adventures. Key Takeaways Freshness is crucial: Proper storage ensures…

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You’ve probably heard about jasmine tea and how fantastic it is, but let’s cut to the chase: does it contain caffeine? This question is more than just a casual one-over-coffee chat; it’s about health, wellness, and finding that sweet spot of energy without the jitters. Jasmine tea can be a delightful addition to your daily routine, but knowing the facts—like its caffeine content—is essential to making it work for you. So, grab a cup, and let’s break everything down! Key Takeaways Jasmine tea generally contains caffeine but the levels vary based on its composition—often paired with green tea. Health benefits…

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If you’ve ever sipped a cup of tea and thought, “Is this stuff good for me or what?” you’re not alone. The world of tea can be a maze, especially when it comes to concepts like acidity and alkalinity. With so many voices chiming in about health trends, it’s essential to cut through the noise and really understand what’s at play here. Picture this: You want to get healthier and are considering how your drink of choice impacts that goal. You hear about alkaline diets, and now you’re wondering if your beloved chai or calming green tea is actually helping…

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Ever thought about how a simple cup of blackberry tea could transform your wellness routine? I mean, we’re talking about a drink that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Seriously, it’s like nature’s little gift to your health, just waiting to be brewed. So, let’s break it down and get you all the knowledge you need to whip up this sensational beverage and understand why it’s so good for you. Key Takeaways Blackberry tea is loaded with antioxidants and nutrients that boost immunity and aid digestion. Brewing blackberry tea is a straightforward process, requiring just a few fresh…

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Flu season hits, and suddenly, you’re dodging snotty noses like a pro on a basketball court. The good news? You don’t have to run for the hills or load up on over-the-counter meds that only mask symptoms. I’ve found my ace in the hole: tea. Yep, that humble cup of warmth can pack a serious punch when it comes to alleviating flu symptoms. So, sit back, grab your preferred mug, and let’s explore the tea blends that’ll knock your flu symptoms right out of the park. Key Takeaways Ginger, peppermint, chamomile, and echinacea teas are your go-to warriors against flu…

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