Green Tea Ingredients: What You Need To Make It
The discovery of green tea in China is believed to have occurred in 2737 BC. But did you know it was, in fact, accidental? It is said that a dead tea leaf found its way into a batch of Chinese Emperor Shennong’s hot water, and he took a sip only to find a new and tasteful beverage.
We don’t know if this is true, but green tea has certainly become an important beverage and ingredient in skincare. Today, green tea is recognized as one of the healthiest drinks in the world and has many benefits. In this blog, we’re going to discuss everything you need to know about green tea, including how to make it.
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What is Green Tea and What Are its Benefits?
Green tea is typically made from the dried leaves of the Chinese Camellia sinensis plant and can be consumed either hot or cold. Many have described it as having a mild flavor with an earthy undertone.
While there are several benefits, green tea has been shown to positively affect oral health, increase fat burning, improve Alzheimer’s disease, and reduce cancer risk. It also contains antioxidants.
One reason green tea is a good skincare ingredient is due to its antioxidants. Green tea is also known to have a high content of catechins, which is an antioxidant that protects the skin from UV rays and fights off free radicals. This tea is also believed to reduce redness, irritation, and acne.
Read more: Power of Yerba Mate: Transform Your Skincare Routine
What Ingredients Do You Need to Make Green Tea?
To make green tea, you will need the following ingredients for this process:
- Water
- A green tea bag or a small amount of green tea leaves
- Lemon, mint leaves, lemon grass, or honey to add additional flavor
Green Tea Recipe
- Boil Water: Start by boiling the water until it reaches a temperature of between 175-185°F.
- Steep Tea: Next, pour the water over the green tea bag or leaves and let it steep (soak) for two to three minutes to draw out the flavor.
- Serve: Lastly, remove the tea bag or leaves, add additional ingredients if needed, and drink when slightly cooled.
What Ingredients Do You Need To Make Green Tea Shots?
Ingredients for green tea shots only vary depending on the type of green tea needed. Ensure you have the following ingredients for green tea shots:
- Water
- Green tea powder, also known as matcha
- Agave syrup or honey
Read more: Yerba Mate: The Best Eye Cream Skincare Ingredient for Mature Skin
Green Tea Shots Recipe
- Mix: Take a quarter cup of hot water and dissolve 1 tsp of matcha. Mix well to ensure the powder is fully dissolved.
- Sweeten: Add honey or agave syrup to sweeten the beverage.
- Shake and Serve: Fill the shaker with ice and the matcha mix, shaking well before straining the beverage into shot glasses.
How To Make Your Own Green Tea From Scratch
Making your own green tea from scratch is not too difficult. All you need to do is harvest the leaves from the Camellia sinensis plant (native to China) if you have one or can find one, and steam them to stop oxidation and preserve their characteristic color.
Then, spread the leaves on a surface and allow them to dry in a cool, dark area for several hours until completely dry. After the leaves have dried, store them in an airtight container. You can then use them as needed.
Read more: Exploring the Rich Culture of Yerba Mate
Wrap Up On The Ingredients Needed To Make Green Tea
Green tea is a unique beverage capable of providing multiple health benefits, not only when consumed as a beverage but also when used as a skincare product. So why not improve your overall and skin health by consuming green tea and using one or two skincare products with green tea extracts in them?