Herb library

Green Tea

Camellia sinensis

Green tea, from Camellia sinensis, is a gentle warming beverage long kept in household kitchens. It is traditionally enjoyed for a mild lift, a soothing warm cup, and simple home uses like rinses and compresses.

Traditionally used for.

• •Traditionally taken as a mild stimulating tea to ease mental fatigue and support alertness.
• •Traditionally used as a gentle digestive companion after meals, sipped warm to settle the stomach.
• •Used in household first aid as a cooled compress or rinse for minor skin irritation and tired eyes, a long-standing household remedy.

Simple preparations.

• •Simple cup of tea: steep 1 teaspoon loose green tea leaves (or 1 tea bag) in 8 ounces just-off-boil water for 2 to 3 minutes, then strain and sip warm. Do not over-steep or brew too hot to avoid bitterness.
• •Cooling eye or skin compress: brew 2 tea bags or 2 teaspoons green tea in 1 cup hot water, cool to lukewarm, then soak a clean cloth and apply briefly to closed eyes or irritated skin for 5 to 10 minutes. Discard after use.
• •Mild mouth rinse or gargle: brew 1 teaspoon green tea in 8 ounces hot water, cool to comfortable temperature, then use as a gentle rinse or short gargle; do not swallow if using for sore throat and always discard after use.

Cautions.

• !Contains caffeine, so avoid late-evening use if sensitive to stimulants, and limit intake if you have trouble sleeping.
• !May cause stomach upset or increased heart rate in some people when taken on an empty stomach; try with food if you notice discomfort.
• !Contains tannins that can reduce iron absorption from meals, so avoid drinking large amounts with iron-rich meals if you have low iron.
• !If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking prescription medications, check with your doctor before using green tea regularly.

Often kept beside.