More and more people these days are taking a more active role in learning about ways herbs can work in conjunction with their therapies. Many of them ask us about specific herbs that stand out to them in their research. Since we have always been focused on sparking curiosity and helping people learn, nothing could make us happier!

That's why we are so pleased to announce that we are now carrying four herbs that have been in high demand with Discover Teas clients recently: Ginkgo biloba, nettle leaf, mugwort, and chrysanthemum. All four of these herbs have been used for centuries for various health-related purposes, whether for physical, mental, or even spiritual health in some cases.

Ginkgo biloba is one of the oldest tree species on the planet, remaining unchanged in the fossil record for over 200 million years. Not only that, the trees themselves are extraordinarily long-lived, with lifespans in the multiple-century mark and certain specimens known to survive over a thousand years. Often planted alongside Buddhist places of worship, it is venerated as a symbol of peace and longevity. Ginkgo is being studied for its potential effects on improving memory and supporting cognitive abilities, and the leaves also have a high amount of antioxidants. It is also being studied for its effects on blood circulation, so those who are pregnant, nursing, or on anticoagulants are advised not to take ginkgo without physician approval.

For centuries, nettle leaf has been used for various purposes around the world. While stinging species of nettle invoke inflammatory reactions on contact with the fresh plant, when safely processed, it has actually been used to help with inflammation. There are also claims that it is effective for seasonal allergies and circulation. Nettle also has a high polyphenol content and is very nutrient-dense; it's often eaten or drunk just for those benefits and for its mild, hay-like flavor. In addition to its medicinal and culinary uses, nettle fibers have been used for clothing and rope as well. Those who are pregnant, nursing, or taking anticoagulants, lithium, blood sugar, or blood pressure medication should consult a doctor before taking nettle.

Mugwort has long been enjoyed for its flavor and health benefits in East Asia, where it is a common component of soups, salads, rice cakes, and jellies. It is seen in a more mystical light in Europe and North America, where it has been used to repel insects, protect against fatigue, draw out poison, and reportedly enhance visions. Mugwort is claimed to have many medicinal benefits, including help with gastrointestinal concerns, fevers, menstrual concerns, and circulation. It is, however, actively dangerous for pregnancies, and those who are nursing or who have ragweed allergies should also avoid this herb.

All over the world, chrysanthemum flowers are admired for their petals and many colors. In East Asia, it is a popular staple both as a tea and for its purported medicinal qualities. The mild, honey-sweet flavor and light golden hue of chrysanthemum tea make it easy to love whether hot or iced. A traditional "cooling" herb, it is also said to be effective for digestion, eye strain, chest pain, and headaches. Studies are ongoing as to its potential efficacy for helping with inflammation and osteoporosis. It is not recommended for people who have ragweed allergies, and those who are pregnant, nursing, or taking blood sugar or blood pressure medication should check with their physician before drinking chrysanthemum.

Here at Discover Teas, we are always on the lookout for more ways we can help our wide-ranging tea family add to their store of knowledge (and tea!). If you're interested in learning about a particular herb or tea we don't carry, you can always contact us through our Facebook page or at hello@discoverteas.com!

Folks dressed to the nines drifted through the elaborately-decorated hall, stopping by the many booths dolled up to fit this year’s Parisian theme, the air was filled with the sounds of live music and the aromas of delicious food from all over the world, and the tea was hot and ready to go. That was the scene at the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank’s 24th Annual Tastefully Yours food tasting event and fundraiser on April 13th, 2017 at the Hampton Roads Convention Center. As usual, the room was packed with people enjoying quality food and beverage samples offered by local businesses such as Fin Seafood, Mango Mangeaux, Thank Goodness It’s Homemade, CookieText, and, of course, yours truly, Discover Teas, all serving up samples of our specialties to the hungry (and thirsty!) crowd.

Once again, Emily and I were behind the table at our booth this year, accompanied by Emily’s husband C.J., who was kind enough to volunteer his help. As usual, we had a blast! All three of us love great food (C.J. and I are both what people might call “foodies”), and there was plenty to be had at the event, with over 30 participating restaurants, businesses, and culinary programs present. It was wonderful to be among such awesome company and to meet so many people excited and interested in tasting our teas.

This was the third year in which we’ve been able to be at Tastefully Yours. We love the event, not only because we get to share our delicious teas with the community (this year we sampled our Blooms that Brighten and Rooibos Provence), but also because we enjoy getting out and getting to know other quality local food and beverage businesses in our area. It’s also a great way to contribute towards a good cause.

The Virginia Peninsula Foodbank’s mission is to assist, support, and empower the over 74,000 food-insecure people in the Greater Peninsula area through various initiatives, partnerships, and programs. They focus not only on distributing food to those who need it in the area, but also on education and community-building opportunities, such as their Culinary Training Program (whose samples at the event were delicious!).

As a local business, we have always been committed to helping out our community here at Discover Teas. We may not have unlimited staff or resources, but we are dedicated to our core values of Love, Purpose, and Gratitude.