My good U-Dubians, I have done it. You might recognize my previous tea-related article from last year, and say “Fellow bestie, I was under the impression your list of favorable teas was complete! Whatever brought upon such a turbulent change of opinion?” Well, my friend, I have received ordainment from the deepest crevices of my mind. This winter, I awoke in the dead of night (sometime between 4 PM and 8 AM) and furiously scribbled down incoherent messages, the words still moist with pen ink as I fell back asleep. Come daybreak, and I find a philosophy, a tea philosophy, which no human mouths have ever uttered, no minds have ever thought. I looked upon the writing and wept, bestie. Truly, undoubtedly, my subconscious had spoken the truth. So now, I write these words to you, translated into American English for your convenience. Here are the types of teas to keep in your home, so that they may serve you well.
- Caffeinated
For your early mornings and afternoon pick-ups, a caffeinated tea is necessary. Black tea, a common favorite, is always a safe bet. I’ve recently picked up a box of oolong tea, and I appreciate the gentle shove it gives me before classes. Earl Gray never fails me. Green, jasmine, or white tea also work, but they do have less caffeine content.
- Illness
When you have a cough, sniffle, or sore throat, you’re gonna want a warm tea to go with it (along with a visit to the doctor). Increasing your liquid intake is important, especially if you suspect you have that cold that’s going around. A good lemon ginger honey tea usually does the trick for me. You can also try elderberry tea, for the antioxidants, or peppermint tea to help your throat.
- Sleep
A tea to help you wind down, and tell your body that it’s time to go to bed. Visit your local grocery store, and you’ll see tons of sleepy-time teas. Chamomile is one of my favorites. Lemon balm, passionflower, and lavender teas might also tickle your fancy.
- Everytime
This is my “just for fun” category. Now that you got the basics down, you’re gonna want a tea you can drink while doing homework, watching a show, reading a book, listening to the rain, talking with friends, or making and forgetting on the counter. This is your everytime, everything, everywhere tea. It’s your favorite tea. Maybe it’s hibiscus (also a good illness tea). For me, it’s orange peel and rosehip tea. Fruit teas are a good way to go: pineapple, mango, apple, apricot, blackberry, raspberry, and strawberry are just a few examples. A word of advice? Have your everytime tea be non-caffeinated. That way you aren’t staring at your bedroom ceiling at 4 AM.
Now go forth with this new-found knowledge. Drink the tea. Spill the tea. Do what you want.