ClariTEA

An earthy green tea blended with brain-pleasing herbs and adaptogenic roots. This blend has a savoury sophistication with an earthy tastiness and hints of green bean alongside the classic citrus flavour of Makrut lime leaves. Intended to guide you into a feeling of being grounded with the mind focused and bright, may it bring you ‘ClariTEA’ of mind and a place of calm from which to create your destiny.

Q&A with Bree, Founder and Tea Artist:

What is a Makrut lime leaf?

If you have the good fortune to eat some delicious Thai food, you have likely tasted Makrut lime leafes already. They impart that characteristic fresh, bright but soft citrus flavour. The Makrut limes are the "bumpy" ones, not really used for eating or cooking because they are very bitter. In this tea, the lime leaves give a smoooth citrus complement to the savoury character of the culinary herbs and the toastiness of the Chunmee. Health effect? Flavour-induced happiness!

Is this tea suitable for drinking at any time of the day, or are there specific times when it is most effective?

This really depends on how your body metabolizes caffeine.  Although there is some evidence that L-theanine may offset the "upper" effects of caffeine, it is pretty person-specific. For me, I love ClariTEA when I hit that trough in my circadian rhythm in the early afternoon and, after a couple of cups, I am headed into my recovery zone with great energy and attention well in advance of my personal 3pm caffeine cut-off. I do have one exception though: I LOVE this tea cold on the rocks as a cocktail alternative, so sometimes I'll allow myself a little evening treat!

How does this tea support mental clarity and focus? Are there any studies or evidence supporting the efficacy of these ingredients?

Studies on the health benefits of green tea, as well as many other herbs are published at what seems to be an ever-increasing speed! Consumption of one cup of green tea increases antioxidant capacity in the blood. That's the ability of the blood to counteract and neutralize free radicals and other reactive oxygen species. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress, leading to cellular damage, inflammation, and various diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and neurodegenerative disorders. It is also being studied for, and showing possible improvements to, increased attention due to the naturally occurring presence of L-theanine and Catechins in the tea. Similarly, sage, rosemary and ashwaganhda have all been studied extensively for benefits on a range of actions in the body including brain-related issues. A review article published by the U.S. NIH notes that sage "plants are traditionally noted for their antioxidant effects and ability to enhance 'head and brain' function, improving memory, and delaying age-associated cognitive decline." Rosemary is the most cultivated culinary herb in the world and has a long folklore best summarized as the adage Rosemary for Remembrance. Historic use and modern results on the effects of rosemary on cognition are well-summarized in a review published in the Brazilian Journal of Medial and Biological Research, which concludes that "The cognitive benefits provided by R. officinalis and its mechanisms of action are in synchrony with the fundamental pathophysiology of cognitive deficit and the herb could be a potential treatment for Alzheimer's disease." In other words, science is on a path to catching up with the wisdom of the ages.*

*Please note that all of this information is provided as 'fun facts' only, is not intended to communicate any recommendation, and has not been reviewed by Health Canada. It is up to you to read and evaluate the literature for your own benefit and amusement. If you are curious beyond the provided information and wish to seek further health guidance related to use of herbs for your health, we recommend reaching out to your community herbalist.