Close your eyes and inhale the intoxicating aroma of our organic Nile Delta Chamomile mixed with our wild Tibetan lavender and you will be transported to another place and time. The medicinal qualities of chamomile are widely known, but not so much those of lavender, which is one of the world's most ancient, and commonly used herbs.
Ingredients: Organic Artisan Nile Delta Egyptian Chamomile & Organic Wild Tibetan Lavender
Origin: Egypt, Tibet; Blended by A Thirst for Tea
Lavender, (Latin: Lavandula angustifolia) is one of the world's most ancient, and commonly used herbs. The first recorded use of the sweet smelling herb appeared in ancient Phoenician inscriptions dating back to 1000 BC. The ancient Romans were also very fond of the herb and used it as a fragrant bath scent in their public bathhouses. In fact, it is believed that the genus name Lavandula stems from the Latin word lavare meaning "to wash." Modern botanical science indicates that there are at least 28 known species of Lavender - some of these are wild and some are commercially cultivated - the plant grows everywhere from parts of Africa to China. The version that we offer here is a wonderfully fresh smelling organic variety that comes from Eastern Tibet - no chemicals or pesticides were used in its cultivation. No one is certain exactly how long the people of Tibet have harvested Lavender. Archaeology indicates that at least as far back as a thousand years Tibetans were using the plant for its physically restorative, and spiritually uplifting qualities. Ancient scrolls indicate that Buddhist monks believed Lavender had a strong "grandmother energy;" they believed its scent contained elements of comfort, compassion, and the wisdom of a long lifetime of experience. The monks also believed that Lavender had the ability to promote a sense of personal peace and stability, and freedom from mental and emotional stress. The herb still plays a large part in the meditative ceremonies of certain temples and shrines in Tibet - the Dalai Lama himself counts Lavender as one of his favorite herbs. For the Tibetans, Lavender has many other uses as well. The flowers are often prepared as a tea or distilled into an oil and used to treat ailments ranging from headaches and muscle cramps to dizzy spells.
There are several varieties and countries of origin of Chamomila - sometimes referred to as bachelor buttons because of the shape of the flower heads - but the best quality comes from Egypt. The sandy loam and nutrients from the Nile create perfect growing conditions. Chamomile flowers have a yellow center and white petals - they almost look like a daisy. Essential oils in the flowers produce a soothing pleasant aroma and a fruity character. In some parts of Europe, particularly southern France, chamomile plants have been strewn on floors or pathways to give the area a good scent. Chamomile can be made into a pleasant aromatic tea which is slightly bitter but with a fruity flavor. It is often sipped for relief of health problems ranging from toothache to nervousness. Chamomile has also been noted as beneficial for soothing headaches and is a natural relaxing herb known to assist the restless and those suffering from insomnia. In many circles Chamomile is called nighty night tea or sleepy tea on account of its natural properties which promote restfulness and drowsiness.
Brewing Instructions
Water Temperature: Boiling
Water Quality: Best with Spring Water
Amount of Leaf (per 6 fl oz water): 1 rounded Tbl. (2.5 grams)
Steep Time: 5-7 minutes
Number of Infusions: 1
Herb and fruit teas are very forgiving! With very few exceptions you will need boiling water to bring out the full flavor of the ingredients. Steep for at least 5 minutes--the longer the better. There's really no such thing as too long, and there's no need to remove the herbs and fruit at all. But because of that, don't expect to get more than one infusion.
