it’s so pretty.

Professor John Foxe got me excited about science of tea again. He conducts research on theanine and how it affects brain function. At a recent talk, he explained how the synergy between theanine and caffeine (both present in the tea plant) increases the brain’s ability to focus. This higher state of focus can be linked to the feeling of “well being” that has been associated with tea drinking for centuries.

Theanine is only naturally occuring in the tea plant (Camellia sinensis), and a rare variety of mushroom. It’s an amino acid that crosses the blood brain barrier, so it has pychoactive properties. Taste-wise, it’s sweet. Here is a great resource on wikiHow.

Hollyawesome has left the ship for warmer, Pacific waters out West. Lots of love and luck to you! May the universe always provide. Thanks for showing me how to make Turkish Tea.