Jiao Gu Lan (also known as Jiaogulan) is a vine that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for many hundreds of years. The Chinese know it as ‘Immortal grass’ which shows how they revere the health benefits it brings. Although we sometimes know it as five-leaf ginseng, it is not a related species, but does match, and some believe is superior to, the health effects of that herb. Since recognised studies were carried out in the 1970’s, Jiao Gu Lan has become a very much sought after herb, and Northern Thailand is recognised as growing some of the finest in the world. Our Jiao Gu Lan Herbal Tea consists of the naturally dried leaves prepared for infusing in the same manner as our other teas. It is a relaxing drink, and many find the underlying slightly bitter undertones soothing.
The name of this tea gives a not so subtle hint of its taste. THIS TEA IS BITTER! The fruit of the momordica charantia is among the most bitter of all found in the natural world, and is used in many Asian recipes. Used in a similar way to grapefruit in western meals as a precursor to the meal itself, it is a stomachic which increases appetite, improves stomach function and stimulates digestion. You will not like this tea; you will either love or hate it. But you have to try it to find out.
Our Mulberry tea contains no traditional tea (Camellia), but only the leaves of the Mulberry tree. The leaves are processed in the same way as our other green teas, a Herbal Green Tea. This produces a refreshing beverage that contains no caffeine or tannins, and therefore an ideal drink for those suffering diabetes. It is also very high in calcium, containing approximately twice that of milk. A slightly longer brewing time is required, up to 6 minutes, to produce a healthy, tasty drink with sweet earthy tones.
