Loose Leaf Tea Zipper

Ingredients: 100% Elderflower, rubbed

Origin: Kosovo

Elderflowers, typically found in British countryside, are clusters of cream-coloured blossoms growing on elderberry trees. These flowers have a delicate flavour and a distinctive creamy and floral smell.

The use of elderflowers dates back centuries. In 400 BCE, Hippocrates referred to the elder tree as his “medicine chest.” In Roman times, the roots were ground into an ointment for rubbing on ailments. In traditional Chinese medicine, it’s believed that elder dissolved in wine aided in the treatment of rheumatism.

Elderflowers are a natural source of vitamin C, antioxidants and bioflavonoids and for this reason have traditionally been used in the treatment of sinusitis, allergies, colds, influenza (flu), swine flu and bronchitis. Making a delicious elderflower tea can help alleviate some of the aforementioned conditions by stimulating the immune system and increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes in the blood. Elderflowers have also been associated with the prevention of diabetes, constipation, found to increase urine production (as a diuretic) and increase sweating (as a diaphoretic), and stop bleeding. Elderflower is also used as a gargle and mouthwash for coughs, colds, hoarseness (laryngitis) and shortness of breath. It is sometimes applied on the skin to minimise the inflammation arising from rheumatism.

In culinary terms, the use of elderflowers is varied. The flowers are most commonly used to flavour syrups for cordials. They are also used as an infusion in the flavouring of jellies, ice creams and pannacottas or mixed directly into cakes, tarts and trifles, pairing particularly well with fruit tarts such as rhubarb and gooseberries. The flowers themselves are edible too – they make a delicate and beautiful garnish on their own, or alternatively, the whole head of elderflowers can be deep-fried in batter and dusted in icing sugar to make a crispy garnish or snack. Elderflowers can also be eaten straight from the bush – the pollen that collects on them is sweet, while the flowers themselves are tart like grape skin. Elderflower, however, is particularly safe when included in food, because it contains a cyanide-producing chemical which can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea, and which is only removed by means of cooking. In manufacturing, elderflower extracts are used in perfumes, eye and skin lotions.

Elderflower works best with a light flavoured tea (green or white), or can be drunk as a herbal infusion enjoyed hot or iced.

Disclaimer:  Taking elderflower along with diabetes medications might cause your blood sugar to drop too low since it is associated with the decrease in blood sugar levels. There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking elderflower if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Please consult your healthcare professional prior to its consumption.

Your Wellbeing: At Tettiera, we celebrate the power of nature. However, because natural ingredients can interact with certain treatments, we recommend consulting your healthcare professional before use if you are pregnant, taking medication, or under medical supervision.

Ingredients: 100% Juniper Berries, whole

Origin: Hungary

Juniper berries are a member of the cypress family. They have been popular in Hungary and southern Europe where the trees are particularly widespread. They are classed as a spice and are considered to be a valued seasoning for game, venison, duck, rabbit, pork, ham and lamb. The berries can be used in savoury dishes, serving as an excellent flavouring in meat pates and terrines, as well as in sweet dishes such as cakes. They can be eaten fresh or dried, whole or ground, raw or cooked. The spice is most famously used to give gin its distinctive flavour due to the main flavour compound pinene which gives the pine tree its distinct scent.

Juniper berries have a long history of traditional use, treating a range of discomforts such as kidney and urinary tract infections, digestive issues, gout, warts and skin growths. Their antiseptic properties were well known amongst early civilizations. In medieval times, Juniper was used to ward off witchcraft and black magic. Its aromatic smoke was used for ritual purification. Egyptian papyrus dating back to 1500 BCE refers to the medicinal use of Juniper Berries in the treatment of tapeworm infestations. The Romans also used the berries for purification and stomach ailments.

Given the above, however, there is limited scientific research and laboratory studies to date pointing towards benefits of its consumption. Junipers have nonetheless been found to be rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals, protecting the body from free radical damage.  Some research points at Juniper as being a powerful diuretic, helping to cleanse the system of excess fluids and stimulating the kidneys. Juniper Berries contain bitter compounds that stimulate bile flow and the production of digestive enzymes. This allows the body to breakdown foods more easily and enhances nutrient absorption. Due to their astringent properties, they have been found to be effective at relieving heartburn and other digestive upsets. Juniper Berries are sometimes referred to as “Nature’s Insulin”, with some studies showing that it contains natural insulin that can work in the body just like its pharmaceutical counterpart.

Disclaimer: Since all medicinal uses remain unproven, juniper berries should not be used in the treatment of any ailment. Please consult your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription medications before its use.

Your Wellbeing: At Tettiera, we celebrate the power of nature. However, because natural ingredients can interact with certain treatments, we recommend consulting your healthcare professional before use if you are pregnant, taking medication, or under medical supervision.