My Sleep press release

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MyNutritionStore.com Introduces Breakthrough All Natural Sleep Aid, MySleep™

The synergistic MySleep formula includes Melatonin, the natural hormone produced by the body to regulate sleep. Double-blind, placebo controlled human clinical studies have shown Valerian Root and Melatonin's ability to benefit age related insomnia, promote sleep latency and help combat jet lag. MySleep is a safe, non habit forming nutraceutical that helps you sleep naturally and wake up revitalized.

Irvine, CA (PRWEB) November 30, 2007 -- MyNutritionStore.com introduces MySleep™, an all-natural sleep & relaxation formula that promotes calmness and optimizes deep sleep, so you can wake up without morning grogginess.



MySleep is an advanced triple benefit formula that: supports deeper, more restful sleep, promotes relaxation and a deep sense of calm and helps overcome jet lag. This multi-ingredient formula includes Valerian Root for its sleep-inducing benefit and its well known reputation for helping to overcome nervousness and excitement.

The synergistic MySleep formula includes Melatonin, the natural hormone produced by the body to regulate sleep. Double-blind, placebo controlled human clinical studies have shown Valerian Root and Melatonin's ability to benefit age related insomnia, promote sleep latency and help combat jet lag. 

MySleep promotes relaxation with a proprietary Neuro-Transmitter delivery system that includes 1000mg of GABA, the most common message-altering chemical in the brain; GABA is widely known for its brain balancing effects. L-Tyrosine is included as a precursor for the neurotransmitter L-Dopa. MySleep also includes Glycine to help normalize brain function and L-Theanine an amino acid which has been shown to reduce the harsh side effects of caffeine.

"MySleep is a tremendous product that gives consumers and wellness professionals a natural alternative to habit forming chemicals," says Jim Stepanian, Co-Founder & CEO of MyNutritionStore.com. "Most importantly, there is solid science behind the synergistic formulation. I encourage consumers and wellness professionals to go to MyNutritionStore.com/Library/ so they can reference the scientific studies within the Sleep & Relaxation category." 

"A better night's sleep can make a big difference in your life," says John Spencer Ellis, CEO of NESTA, the National Exercise and Sports Training Association. "The immune system is more productive, memory is better, cleansing systems are at their peak and most notably, you wake up with more energy."

MySleep is exclusively available through store owners at MyNutritionStore.com.

MyNutritionStore.com provides wellness professionals and home based entrepreneurs a turnkey business solution for the distribution of dietary supplements and proprietary nutraceuticals. This state of the art web portal uses web 2.0 technology to create a personalized nutrition store for individuals seeking to profit from the booming $80 billion a year wellness industry. Registration takes just 15 minutes at MyNutritionStore.com/OpenStore/. MyNutritionStore.com brands include: WOMEN'S BIO-X™, WHEY SCIENCE™, WEIGHT SCIENCE™, VISION SCIENCE™, SOY PROTEIN SCIENCE™, PROBIOTIC SCIENCE™, OMEGA SCIENCE™, MySLEEP™, MEN'S FX™, LIVER DETOX, JOINT SCIENCE™, HOMOCYSTEINE SCIENCE™, COLON CLEANSE, CARDIAC FX™, BONE HEALTH, ANTIOXIDANT SCIENCE™ and ADAPTOGREEN PLUS ™.

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Vitamins and Our Bodies

Have you ever wondered why the word 'essential' precedes the term, 'vitamins'? It’s simple. Vitamins and minerals ensure our bodies function as they were designed. Important as vitamins are, the body is unable to manufacture most on its own and must rely on outside sources to meet nutritional needs.

According to MyNutritionStore.com, vitamins are organic compounds and as such they're found naturally in many of the foods we consume. They're also available in the form of vitamin supplements. Thirteen different vitamins are needed to perform such crucial functions as helping protect against infections and disease, helping the body's metabolism, helping the body grow and helping the body remove waste.

Vitamins are a lot like building blocks. A healthy body is able to put these blocks together to create the enzymes and hormones that, among other things, control heart rate, blood pressure, glucose levels and other chemical reactions.

How Much is Enough?

The recommended daily allowance (RDA) of the various vitamins is different depending on a person's age and current state of health. Women who are pregnant for example, need a different combination of vitamins to protect the fetus against birth defects. Adult men have different requirements than adult women. Children, teenagers and the elderly all have different nutritional requirements as well.

Thinking about food as a source of fuel is helpful. Give your body the right type of fuel and it will perform at optimum capacity. Fuel it with the wrong things, and over time, performance will begin to decline.

Problems Associated with Vitamin Deficiencies

Although perhaps not noticeable at first, vitamin deficiencies can lead to serious health issues further on down the road. Few people today eat what would be considered a nutritionally-balanced diet. Many in fact, have developed some pretty poor eating habits. High fat foods, processed foods, fast food and restaurant food have taken the place of healthy foods.

Because people can't see what is going on inside the body, it's difficult to get a good understanding of the negative effects a poor diet can have on the body. Generally, it's not until the body begins putting on excess weight that the effects start to become visually noticeable. But long before the excess weight settles in, trouble is already brewing inside.

What types of problems are associated with vitamin deficiencies? Insufficient Vitamin D can cause weak or even deformed bones. Not enough Vitamin E can lead to the destruction of red blood cells. Not enough Vitamin C can cause tiredness, weakness, sore muscles and can cause gums to bleed. An overall vitamin deficiency can even lead to death.

Vitamin supplements are an effective way to fill in the nutritional gaps caused by poor eating habits. But beyond that, the only accurate way of knowing if the body is getting enough vitamins is with a blood test. If you don't think you're getting enough vitamins, you probably aren't. Do yourself a favor and find out soon.

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Vitamin P or Bioflaviniouds (Phytochemicals

Vitamin P is a water soluble vitamin. Its crystalline structure takes on the characteristics of a Bioflavonoid. It functions to keep blood vessels healthy by building up a capillary's ability to resist bleeding profusely keeping capillaries strong. A strong blood vessel system is able to protect against disease and infection.

In the case of Bioflavonoids, a significant benefit is their antioxidant capabilities. Antioxidants prevent many serious diseases from developing by neutralizing free radicals. If not neutralized, free radicals can cause substantial cell damage. Oxidation is what happens to the part of a car that develops rust. In much the same way as rust begins to destroy a car's body, free radicals begin destroying cells. As cells begin to break down, the body becomes susceptible to heart and other types of diseases and other adverse conditions including premature aging.

MyNutritionStore.com states another important quality of Bioflavonoids is their effectiveness as an anti-inflammatory. It's possible that consuming Bioflavonoids benefits muscle and joints by helping bruises in these areas heal faster.

Because of its ability to relax the muscles in the cardiovascular system, there is a possibility that Vitamin P may play a role in lowering blood pressure. Some other areas being researched are Vitamin P's ability to interfere with growing tumors, and how it impacts other types of bleeding such as nosebleeds, hemorrhoids and bleeding in the retina (a problem for people with hypertension or diabetes).

Sources for Vitamin P Bioflavonoids

Bioflavonoids are plant-based so they are found mainly in fruits and vegetables. Specifically, the brightly colored fruits and vegetables in shades of red, orange and yellow are the best sources. Mangoes, apricots, oranges, grapefruit and other citrus fruits, lemons, cherries, black currants, plums, and grapes are good fruit sources. Carrots, tomatoes, green peppers, broccoli and onions are good vegetable sources. Believe it or not, much of the bioflavonoid value actually comes from the rind.

Red wine also is a good source of Bioflavonoids and even medical professionals recommend drinking a glass with dinner. Buckwheat, ginkgo, green tea, milk thistle, hawthorn, rose hip and yarrow all contain Bioflavonoids, as well.

There isn't a recommended daily allowance for Vitamin P. What is recommended is to get at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables every day. Choosing those which are brightly-colored will provide the most bioflavonoid benefit.

People who make eating fruits and vegetables a part of their diets will automatically get sufficient quantities of Vitamin P. Adding a glass of green tea for lunch and a glass of wine with dinner will allow the body to reap even more bioflavonoid benefit. Those who do not like these foods and beverages need to realize the importance of making them part of their daily routines.

Just as there are no recommended daily requirements, there aren't any risks associated with a Vitamin P deficiency. It's not a toxic substance so there aren't any adverse side effects from consuming too much, either.

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Vitamin H (Biotin)

As a member of the B-complex family, Vitamin H is better known as Biotin and B7. Being water soluble, the body passes what it doesn’t use via the urine. Unlike other vitamins which the body gets from food, its produces inside the body by bacteria living in the large intestines.

One of Biotin's primary responsibilities is to ensure proper growth. It assists in the production of DNA, RNA and nucleic acids. Cells in particular rely on this vitamin to help them grow and replicate properly. The body needs Vitamin H to help with the production of fatty acids. The tissues of the nervous system and the muscles benefit from Vitamin H and it is important in the production of bone marrow. Biotin also assists in the process involved with the transfer of carbon dioxide. Since daily requirements are low, and many foods contain it, and he body naturally produces it, Vitamin H deficiencies are rare.

As with the other B vitamins, Vitamin H also plays an important role in metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. It also helps process glucose. The end result is that the body is able to efficiently produce energy, eliminating problems associated with fatigue.

Biotin helps blood sugar levels remain steady. People with diabetes may find Biotin beneficial because it has been known to increase the body's reaction to insulin.

Believe it or not, Vitamin H plays a role in helping to keep hair from turning gray and also from falling out. It helps keep fingernails strong and less prone to brittleness by encouraging nails to grow thicker. Biotin helps keep skin healthy, too. Biotin must really be effective because many beauty products list this vitamin as an active ingredient.

It is also possible that Biotin can help relieve the symptoms associated with depression. And finally, it may also help reduce pain.

Sources of Vitamin H (Biotin)

MyNutritionStore.com says vitamin H is found in meat, especially organ meats (liver and kidneys), dairy products (milk, cheese and butter), egg yolks, oysters, lobster, poultry, cauliflower, avocados, bananas, strawberries, watermelon, bananas, grapefruits, raisins, mushrooms, green peas, black currants, brewer's yeast, wheat germ, nuts, beans, lentils, oat bran, whole grain breads, oatmeal, peanut butter, molasses and foods high in Omega-3 fatty acids including salmon, tuna, mackerel and herrings.

Eating raw eggs can lessen the body's ability to absorb this vitamin.

The recommended daily intake of Vitamin H (Biotin) is 300 micrograms for healthy adults and pregnant women. Women who are breastfeeding need a bit more, about 350 micrograms/day.

Symptoms of a Vitamin H (Biotin) Deficiency

As stated above, this type of deficiency is very rare. However, that does not mean the problem is nonexistent. Several symptoms could indicate a deficiency in Vitamin H. Possible symptoms include a scalp that is dry or scaly, a loss of appetite, a loss of hair, nausea, muscle pain, fatigue, depression, dermatitis, anorexia and anemia.

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Vitamin E (Alpha-Tocopherol)

Vitamin E is another important vitamin providing multiple benefits. It’s antioxidant properties neutralize free radicals and protect the body against damaging effects they can cause. Along with Vitamins C and Vitamin A, these antioxidants help slow the aging process and can help prevent prostate and other types of cancer.

MyNutritionStore.com says the fat soluble Vitamin E is actually a combination of chemical compounds that include alpha-tocopherol. All tissues in the body contain Vitamin E, but the largest quantities are located in the pituitary glands and the suprarenal glands. Since the body does not produce this vitamin, it must rely on the diet or supplementation for its recommended daily requirements.

Another important benefit of Vitamin E is that it helps keep LDL levels low. LDL is the bad form of cholesterol that over time can build up within the walls of the arteries and lead to heart disease and blood clotting.

Vitamin E encourages the proper development of muscles. It can help boost the effectiveness of the immune system, primarily by making it more resistant to bacterial and viral infections. Working together with Vitamin C and beta carotenes, Vitamin E can help prevent the development of cataracts.

Sources of Vitamin E

Vitamin E is abundant in many different types of food. Sweet potatoes and mangoes are rich in Vitamin E. Several oils including sesame, sunflower, peanut, safflower, olive, soybean and corn are good sources of Vitamin E. Nuts also contain sufficient levels of Vitamin E making walnuts, Brazil nuts, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds and almonds excellent snack foods. Butter, margarine, eggs, wheat germ, wheat germ oil, soya, yams, spinach, broccoli, corn, avocados, fortified cereals and liver are other good sources. Green vegetables, however, contain small amounts of Vitamin E.

Note that food storage and preparation can significantly deplete the Vitamin E content of these foods. Freezing, processing, preserving and exposing these foods to air are the biggest Vitamin E degraders.

The recommended daily intake of Vitamin E is 12 milligrams. However, people who smoke cigarettes are advised to increase Vitamin E levels to counteract the increased stress on the lungs that is caused by cigarette smoke. Interestingly, air pollution can cause the same type of lung stress so those living in areas frequently subjected to air pollution should also increase their daily intake.

Symptoms of a Vitamin E Deficiency

Since Vitamin E is contained in so many different foods and because the body is capable of storing this fat soluble vitamin, Vitamin E deficiencies are very rare. However they do occur and the symptoms can be severe. Gradual degradation of the kidneys is one notable risk associated with this type of deficiency. Reproductive problems including infertility as well as an increase in the risk of a miscarriage are also potential problems.

Lethargy, anemia and an overall loss of balance are other symptoms adults with a Vitamin E deficiency may experience. And if not addressed, over time, the body will simply begin to waste away.

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Vitamin D (Cholecalciferol)

Vitamin D, sometimes called Cholecalciferol, is the only vitamin the body is capable of producing on its own. The catch is the body must be exposed to sunlight before it can produce it. It's not necessary to worship the sun to benefit. An hour a week is generally enough.

MyNutritionStore.com Says vitamin D is a very stable fat soluble vitamin. Like other fat soluble vitamins, the body is capable of storing Vitamin D for later use. Because it is stable, it is not broken down during food preparation or exposure to heat sources.

Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and this in turn helps keep bones strong and less prone to breaks and brittleness. Ample amounts of Vitamin D greatly reduce the risks of developing osteoporosis and joint damage. It can slow down the effects of arthritis and keep back pain under control. Vitamin D is also required for proper absorption of phosphorus.

Vitamin D is currently being studied as an effective way to protect the body against colorectal cancer and the development of certain types of autoimmune diseases. Early results are promising.

Sources of Vitamin D

Milk that has been fortified with Vitamin D is a really good source because it has the added bonus of providing the body with calcium. Foods that are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines are other good sources. Vitamin D is also found in animal fats including organ meats, butter, egg yolks and full-fat dairy products. Other foods that have been fortified with this vitamin, such as orange juice and cereals, are other reliable sources. A good herbal supplement is cod liver oil.

The recommended daily intake for adults is 200 – 400 IU (International Units). Individuals aged 50 – 70 should increase their intake to 400 IU and those older than 70 should get even more, 600 IU/day. It is also suggested that breastfed babies be given a Vitamin D supplement.

Note that health-related problems can result from over-supplementation. Excessive amounts of calcium can lead to the development of kidney stones and over-calcification of teeth and bones. Calcium deposits in the arteries can cause arteries to harden.

Symptoms of a Vitamin D Deficiency

Rickets, a disease thought to be under control, is beginning to appear again, especially in children who do not get sufficient quantities of Vitamin D. The primary symptoms of this disease are soft bones and bones that develop abnormally. Infants that do not get sufficient Vitamin D can develop a condition in which bones do not harden. This results in bowed legs, stunted growth and a lot of pain.

In later stages of life, insufficient levels of Vitamin D can cause osteoporosis, a condition in which bones become weak and fracture easily. Since Vitamin D is absorbed in the small intestines, diseases in the gall bladder, liver, intestines and the pancreas can impede absorption and lead to deficiencies.

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Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

One of the more well-known vitamins is Vitamin C or Ascorbic Acid. This water soluble vitamin plays a role in many important bodily functions. Being water soluble, what the body does not use is constantly being passed through the body via the urine.

Probably the most important function of Vitamin C is its antioxidant effects. Oxidants are free radicals that if not controlled can significantly damage cells. Much in the same way that rust breaks down a car's exterior, so too can free radicals damage the skin and other body parts. While there are no known problems associated with an over-abundance of Vitamin C, it is a good idea to stick within recommended daily allowances.


Vitamin C is crucial to the body's ability to produce collagen, an important protein that keeps skin damage minimal. Collagen can delay the development of wrinkles and saggy skin by helping skin hold onto its elasticity. Vitamin C also expedites the body's ability to repair tissues so wounds heal more quickly.

Through extensive research, MyNutritionStore.com found that vitamin C is necessary for the process involved with metabolizing folic acid, iron, tyrosine and phenylalanine. The body cannot properly utilize carbohydrates without Vitamin C. It is also needed to synthesize fats and proteins.

MyNutritionStore.com also found vitamin C can also help a person recover from the effects of a cold more quickly. Unlike what most people think, this vitamin cannot actually prevent a cold from developing, but it can alleviate the symptoms. It accomplishes this task by increasing the production of white blood cells and antibodies.

Vitamin C strengthens artery walls and makes them better able to resist the development of plaque build-up. It helps with the bone marrow's ability to produce red blood cells and hemoglobin. And Vitamin C helps keep the nervous system healthy.

Studies investigating Vitamin C's ability to slow down and possibly even prevent the formation of cataracts are ongoing and show promising results.

Sources of Vitamin C

Fruits contain plenty of vitamin C, especially oranges, tangerines, limes, guava, lemons, papayas, strawberries, black currants, grapefruit and mangoes. Many vegetables contain Vitamin C including collard greens, sweet and hot peppers, broccoli, tomatoes, brussel sprouts, cabbage, potatoes, kale, spinach, and watercress. To preserve more of the Vitamin C content, eat these fruits and vegetables raw or only slightly cooked. Steam and exposure to light break down this vitamin.

The recommended daily intake of Vitamin C is 60 mg per day for adults.

Symptoms of a Vitamin C Deficiency

The most famous of conditions associated with a Vitamin C deficiency is Scurvy, a condition that used to affect sailors who spent long periods at sea. Early symptoms of Scurvy affect the mouth area including gums that bleed and teeth that become loose. As it progresses, muscles become weak and joints become painful.

Other signs that the body may be experiencing a deficiency of Vitamin C include frequent infections, prolonged colds, easily bruised body parts, painful and/or swollen joints, nose bleeds, and anemia symptoms including tiredness and loss of skin color.

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Vitamin B12 (Cyancobalamin)

Vitamin B12 is a very important member of the family of B-vitamins. It is a complex, water-soluble vitamin that also contains cobalt, a metallic ion. Known as the energy vitamin, adequate levels of Vitamin B12 have been shown to increase alertness, reduce tiredness and leave people feeling overall invigorated.

Vitamin B12 is absorbed through the gastrointestinal system and interestingly, the liver is able to store adequate supplies of it, making deficiencies rare. However, those who have stomach problems that make absorption troublesome can end up with a deficiency even though they consume the right foods or get adequate supplies via supplementation.

One of the most important functions of Vitamin B12 is its ability to work together with Folic Acid in the production of DNA. Because of the way it is able to recycle certain enzymes, it plays a significant role in maintaining the proper functioning of cells, blood and nerves. An imbalance of either Vitamin B9 or B12 can negatively impact the way red blood cells divide and lead to a condition known as pernicious anemia.

According to MyNutritionStore.com, vitamin B12 also works to reduce levels of homocysteine, the amino acids that can damage artery walls and increase a person's risk of developing heart disease. Vitamin B12 is also responsible for ensuring that nerve cells function properly. It's also possible that Vitamin B12 can treat symptoms associated with a loss of calcium including osteoporosis and damage to the teeth. This vitamin may even be able to relieve some symptoms of depression.

Sources of Vitamin B12

Animal liver is the best source of Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin). It is important to note that Vitamin B12 is not found in plant tissue. Those who consume a vegetarian-style diet are highly advised to supplement this all-important vitamin. Other good sources of this vitamin include liver, fish, eggs, cheese and meat. Cereals, plant milk, soy products and brewer's yeast that have been fortified with B12 are also good sources, especially for those who consume a vegetarian diet.

For adults, 3 micrograms is the required daily intake of this vitamin. However, since this vitamin has no toxic side effects, consuming more can help ensure an adequate production of red blood cells and can help prevent birth defects.

Symptoms of a Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Symptoms of a Vitamin B12 deficiency develop gradually, usually not becoming apparent for at least a year and oftentimes longer. Anemia is the first sign that the body is not getting an adequate supply of Vitamin B12.

Other symptoms of this type of deficiency include a sore tongue, trouble with memory or concentration that can result in confusion, an overall feeling of tiredness, irritability, diminished appetite, tingling, numbness, diarrhea, problems associated with poor circulation and development of a yellowish tint on the skin.

Brain damage and deterioration of the nervous system are also possible symptoms that can result from this type of deficiency. In addition, a Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause homocysteine levels to increase which puts an individual at higher risk for development of heart and/or coronary disease.

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Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid)

Vitamin B9, referred to as Folic Acid, is a water-soluble member of the B-vitamin family. Because it's water soluble, the body can hold onto only small quantities. Since it is constantly being lost during food preparation and via the urine stream, it’s important to replenish Folic Acid regularly.

MyNutritionStore.com says like the other B-vitamins, Vitamin B9 plays a role in the body's ability to metabolize fats, proteins and carbohydrates so they can be converted into energy. But Folic acid benefits the body in many other ways, too.

Vitamin B9 is required to help form DNA and other nucleic acids. Since DNA and other nucleic acids are created along with new cell growth, this vitamin plays a crucial role in the body's ability to create red blood cells and the heart disease fighting amino acids called homocysteine. Folic acid also assists in the production of heme, the pigmented part of the red blood cells that carry iron.

Folic acid also plays a significant role in the body's ability to repair damaged tissues. It plays a role in the development of serotonin, the neurotransmitter responsible for regulating sleep, moods and appetite. It helps with the digestion process. And it may help protect against the onset of cervical cancer.

Ample quantities of Folic acid are also extremely important for any woman planning to conceive. Its presence can help protect the developing fetus from such dangerous conditions as spinal bifida. Four to six weeks after conception, the neural tube begins to form in the growing fetus. This tube ultimately becomes the spine, spinal cord, skull and brain. Closing the neural tube so amniotic fluid cannot seep in is the final step of the tube's development. Folic acid ensures this closure. Failure to close can result in birth defects including spinal bifida or anencephaly.

Sources of Folic Acid

Green leafy vegetables such as spinach and asparagus are wonderful sources of Folic Acid. Organ meats including liver and kidney also contain ample amounts of Vitamin B9. Nuts, beans and legumes, shellfish, poultry, pork, whole grains, citrus fruits, fruit juices and yeast are also good sources.

Although excessive consumption of Folic Acid does not present a dangerous situation, care should be taken to keep consumption in moderation. Women should get 300 micrograms daily, and men should get 330 micrograms daily. Pregnant women, especially during the early stages of pregnancy, and women attempting to conceive should increase their intake of Folic Acid to 400 micrograms/day.

Symptoms of a Vitamin B9 Deficiency

An inadequate level of Folic Acid is probably the most common of the vitamin deficiencies. Especially at risk for this type of deficiency are the elderly, pregnant women, those who drink excessive quantities of alcohol and women taking the birth control pill.

Depression, apathy, shortness of breath, dizziness, and anemia can all result from a Vitamin B9 deficiency. Problems with memory and impaired brain and nerve function can also result.

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Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)

Vitamin B6, also called Pyridoxine or Pyridoxal Phosphate, is the quickest metabolized member of the B-vitamin family. It is a water soluble vitamin. This allows it to travel quickly through the body. So fast that it takes about 8 hours to pass completely and is therefore important to replenish regularly.

Like the rest of the B-vitamins, Pyridoxine plays a role in the metabolism process that converts proteins, fats and carbohydrates into a form of energy the body can use. Vitamin B6 helps produce healthy hemoglobin by making more iron available. Even more impressive, this vitamin plays a role in the production of over 60 different hormones, enzymes, prostaglandins and neurotransmitters. Vitamin B6 is directly involved in the production of the mood, sleep and appetite regulator called serotonin.

Vitamin B6 can help prevent the formation of painful kidney stones and adequate quantities will help promote a healthy immune system. It helps lower the levels of bad cholesterol in the blood. This is a very important benefit because fatty plaque deposits are less likely to form on artery walls, greatly reducing the risks of heart attack. It's believed that the way Vitamin B6 joins together with Folic Acid and Vitamin B12 also helps reduce the risk of heart attack. Together this combination may lower homocysteine levels.

Sources of Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 is found in many of the same foods in which the other B vitamins are found. Poultry, pork, fish, milk, eggs, nuts, seeds, brown rice, whole grains, bananas, carrots, avocados, soybeans and whole grains are a few of the sources.

MyNutritionStore.com found that women need 1.6 milligrams of Vitamin B6 each day and men need to take 2 milligrams. One of the most important things to know about Vitamin B6 or Pyridoxine is it is one of the few vitamins that, taken in excess, can actually be toxic. Taking more than 2 grams a day can result in irreversible damage to the nerve endings and to the entire neurological system. Although up to 500 mg/day is considered high, this level still is considered safe.

Symptoms of Vitamin B6 Deficiency

MyNutritionStore.com states that people who are experiencing a Vitamin B6 deficiency suffer from symptoms that include apathy, moodiness, depression, fatigue, hair loss, insomnia, a loss of appetite, dry or cracked skin on the tongue or lips and anemia. This deficiency can also cause the nervous system to completely break down. Insufficient levels of Vitamin B6 are especially troublesome in children and babies, both of whom are more vulnerable to this type of deficiency. If left untreated, affected individuals can go into a convulsion, or become irritable, or anemic.

People who are pregnant, people who drink excessive amounts of alcohol, the elderly, teenagers, and women who take the birth control pill are more vulnerable to developing a Vitamin B6 deficiency than others. The reason has to do with how each group impacts the body's ability to absorb this very important vitamin.

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Vitamin B5 (Panotothenic Acid)

Vitamin B5 is part of the family of B-complex vitamins. Also called Pantothenic Acid, this one vitamin is used by literally all of the functions the body performs. Vitamin B5 is a water soluble vitamin and it's one that's in abundant supply.

How does this all-important vitamin benefit the body? To begin with, like the other members of the B-complex family, Vitamin B5 has a major role in the metabolism process that converts carbohydrates, fats and proteins into energy. That alone is a lot.

In addition, Pantothenic Acid acts as an adrenal gland stimulant. As the glands are stimulated, the production of adrenal hormones, and especially cortisone, increases. The vitamin is also believed to be capable of reducing fatigue and thereby enhancing stamina levels. Pantothenic Acid is crucial for the production of antibodies too. Many specialists agree that Vitamin B5 can help the body fight off the symptoms of stress, anxiety and even depression.

MyNutritionStore.com says vitamin B5 helps to lower bad cholesterol levels and that helps reduce the risks involved with heart disease. It can help prevent arthritis or if it is already present Pantothenic Acid can help to alleviate the symptoms of this painful condition.

Hormone production depends on a steady supply of Vitamin B5 and so does the creation of healthy red blood cells and hemoglobin. Healthy skin and hair both are possible because of this important B vitamin. In fact, Pantothenic Acid has been used to treat acne and rosacea. It helps wounds heal faster. And finally, this powerhouse can help slow the aging process.

Sources of Vitamin B5

Surprisingly, fruits are not a reliable source of Vitamin B5. Pantothenic Acid is found in almost all other unprocessed foods. The best sources of this vitamin are eggs, yeast, poultry, meat, fish, liver, milk, sunflower seeds, soya beans and bean flour, peas, peanuts, peanut butter, legumes, broccoli, collard greens, bananas, oranges, mushrooms, whole grain products and wheat germ.

One thing that should be noted about Pantothenic Acid is that it breaks down easily in heat. Care must be taken during food preparation.

Since this vitamin is present in many different foods, it is rare that people do not get enough from their diets. Therefore, guidelines as to recommended daily intake of Vitamin B5 don't exist. For most adults, 4 - 7 mg/day is sufficient. Getting as much as 10 mg/day or more isn't a problem since this vitamin is water soluble. What the body doesn't use will simply be eliminated via the urine.

Symptoms of a Vitamin B5 Deficiency

In the unlikely event of a Vitamin B5 deficiency, those affected may have the following symptoms: overall weakness, muscle cramping, insomnia and fatigue, intestinal problems such as water retention, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, a low resistance to infection or a tingling sensation in the extremities.

Note that these symptoms can indicate a deficiency in one of the other B vitamins. Since it is rare to have a Vitamin B5 deficiency, it may be necessary to investigate the likelihood that another vitamin deficiency is causing these symptoms.

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Vitamin B3 (Niacin)

Another important member of the B-complex family, Vitamin B3 facilitates the processes involved with metabolizing fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Over 50 enzymes function properly because of this vitamin. Niacin, as it's also known, is one of the more stable vitamins and is able to resist oxidation, heat and alkalies.

MyNutritionStore.com says that niacin has an interesting effect on the arteries. First, this vitamin helps the arteries widen, which enables blood to circulate more easily. Also, because Niacin lowers the body's bad (LDL) cholesterol levels, it helps prevent plaque from forming and building-up on artery walls. The result is improved blood flow and even better, a reduced risk of heart attack.

Vitamin B3 plays also a major role in keeping the body's nervous system, digestive tract and overall mental well-being functioning properly. Healthy skin requires a regular supply of this vitamin. And finally, it's also required in order to produce various hormones including progesterone and testosterone.

Like the other B vitamins, Vitamin B3 is water soluble, meaning that it's easily absorbed in water and needs to be constantly resupplied. The body does have the ability to produce a very small quantity of Niacin, but this amount is not enough to meet daily intake requirements. The rest must be supplied either by food or by supplementation.

Sources of Vitamin B3

According to MyNutritionStore.com, niacin is found in more animal products than plant products. Good sources of this vitamin include organ meats (kidney, liver), lean meats, pork, prawns, and even milk from a cow.

Some of the other sources include seeds and almonds, rice bran, wheat products, beans, green vegetables, turnips, carrots, and celery. Yeast and bran can be good sources if the bran coating is not removed (as it is during the milling process).

The recommended daily intake of Vitamin B3 (Niacin) is 15 mg for adult women. Women who are pregnant or who are breastfeeding need slightly more. The required daily intake for men is 15 - 19 mg. Note that some individuals who digest Niacin can experience a red flushness on the skin. If this happens, slow intake and allow the body to get used to Niacin.

Symptoms of a Vitamin B3 Deficiency

Even a mild Vitamin B3 deficiency will cause symptoms. These could include: an overall feeling of tiredness, forgetfulness, nausea and/or vomiting, loss of appetite, skin outbursts or lesions, sores in the mouth, headache, anemia, problems in the digestive system and trouble sleeping or relaxing.

When the deficiency is severe, a disease called Pellagra can develop. The first symptom is easily recognizable. A lesion appears on skin that has been exposed to sunlight. This more serious condition must be treated immediately. Pellagra is also characterized by symptoms including dermatitis, irritability, diarrhea or other gastrointestinal trouble, inflammation of the mucous membranes and problems of the nervous system such as depression and other forms of mental disturbances. Because of its ability to keep Pellagra from developing, this vitamin is sometimes referred to Vitamin PP (Pellagra Prevention).

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Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)

Vitamin B2, known as Riboflavin or Vitamin G, is a member of the B-complex family. Small amounts of this water soluble vitamin are in practically every type of plant and animal tissue. B2 is responsible for several bodily functions including assisting with the metabolization process of proteins, fats and carbohydrates.

The body needs riboflavin to maintain the mucous membranes that are located throughout the digestive tract. Riboflavin is necessary for proper formation of red blood cells. It helps the body produce antibodies. And it is an important part of the processes involved with cell respiration and growth. This vitamin benefits skin, hair, finger and toenails and the connective tissues.

As part of the B-complex family, Vitamin B2 is necessary for the production of Niacin (Vitamin B3) and it helps the body absorb Vitamin B6. During periods of rapid development, such as during puberty, Vitamin B2 helps ensure that development occurs normally.

Sources of Vitamin B2

MyNutritionStore.com says people who eat a nutritionally-balanced diet generally provide their bodies with sufficient levels of this vitamin simply because small quantities are found in most plant and animal tissues.

Milk, eggs and dairy products such as yogurt and cheese are excellent sources of Vitamin B2 as are leafy green vegetables, avocado, broccoli and asparagus. Enriched and whole grains and cereals are other good sources and so are nuts, legumes, soybeans and mushrooms. Fruits, organ meats (liver, kidney and the heart) and fish contain ample amounts of Vitamin B2 as well.

Remember that since it is a water soluble vitamin, there are no risks involved with excessive consumption. That which the body does not use will pass in the urine. When too much is present, the urine will appear more yellow than normal. Note however that heat and light can destroy Riboflavin so whenever possible, purchase milk contained in something other than a glass bottle.

Recommended daily intake of Vitamin B2 is as follows. For adult men, 1.3 mg. Adult females should get at least 1.1 mg daily. Women who are pregnant should get more, 1.4 mg, and women who are breastfeeding should try to get even more, 1.6mg daily.

Symptoms of Vitamin B2 Deficiency

Although a good diet helps ensure adequate supplies of this important vitamin, there are external conditions that can trigger a Vitamin B2 deficiency. Among these are excessive consumption of alcohol, tobacco, refined sugars and caffeine. Stress and excessive exercise can also deplete stores of this vitamin.

Several symptoms can be indicative of a Riboflavin deficiency. Among these are an overall feeling of weakness, swelling or soreness in the throat and/or tongue, cracks or sores in the corners of the mouth, irritated skin or other skin conditions, and anemia. Eyes can be sensitive to light or can water excessively. Problems with digestion and with insomnia have been known to occur as well as a feeling of lightheadedness. Mental responses may slow and growth may be adversely affected. It's likely there is a link between a Vitamin B2 deficiency and the onset of rheumatoid arthritis, as well.

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Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)

Vitamin B1, a water-soluble vitamin also known as Thiamin, is an important part of the family of B-complex vitamins. The primary role this vitamin plays inside the body is in the conversion process of blood sugars into glucose. Vitamin B1 helps the body break down carbohydrates, proteins and fats.

Sufficient levels of Vitamin B1 also ensure that the nervous system and the cardiovascular system work optimally. Proper muscular functioning is also dependent on sufficient quantities of this vitamin. The production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the body's main source of fuel, could not happen without Vitamin B1. The heart in particular relies on this fuel supply so that it can keep up with its most important job of circulating blood throughout the body and supplying the blood cells with oxygen.

MyNutritionStore.com says because of its role in helping the heart pump blood, Vitamin B1 can possibly benefit those individuals suffering from congestive heart failure. Vitamin B1 can also be used to ease the numbness and tingling often associated with nerve damage. Because of the way this vitamin helps in the energy conversion and heart pumping processes, it has been known to boost mood and energy levels and alertness.

Water soluble vitamins such as B1 must be continuously replenished because what the body does not use is eliminated via the urine. If not replenished adequately, a deficiency can result. But because B1 is found in so many foods, deficiencies are very rare.

Sources of Vitamin B1

Good sources of Vitamin B1 include pork, whole grain cereals, wheat germ, navy beans, kidney beans, garbanzo beans, peas, peanuts, fish, oysters, whole wheat and rye flour, oranges and orange juice and raisins. The best sources are found in beef liver and kidneys and in brewer's yeast.

Daily Intake Requirements

A determination as to the most beneficial daily intake of Vitamin B1 has yet to be made. However, since this vitamin is non-toxic, it really is not possible to consume 'too much'. Remember, as a water soluble vitamin, B1 is constantly eliminated from the body through the urine. Most experts agree that 1.5 mg each day is sufficient for men and women.

Symptoms of Vitamin B1 Deficiency

As people age, it is natural for Vitamin B1 levels to start to decline. Aside from the natural deficiency brought about by age, Vitamin B1 deficiencies are very rare nowadays, but they do exist. Those who consume excessive amounts of alcohol are most adversely affected as alcohol inhibits the body's ability to properly absorb this vitamin. Babies that are given formula that lacks Vitamin B1 supplements can also be affected.
MyNutritionStore.com states the most notable symptom of a Vitamin B1 deficiency is a condition called Beriberi. Symptoms of this condition include rapid heartbeat, mental confusion, nerve trouble and muscles that gradually begin to waste away. Because Vitamin B1 plays a significant role in effectively transmitting nerve signals between the spinal cord and the brain, insufficient amounts of this vitamin can also lead to the development of depression, headaches, nausea, loss of appetite, nerves that tingle and tiredness.

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Vitamin A and Carotenes

Vitamin A, a fat-soluble vitamin, is crucial for the development and maintenance of strong bones and teeth, clear vision and healthy skin. Working together, Vitamin A and carotenes, which are plant-based forms of fat-soluble Vitamin A, carry out many important functions.

Of the over 600 carotenes that have been identified, 30 - 50 have been found to involve Vitamin A activity, which is why carotenes are included in the discussion. Carotenes are naturally-occurring, brightly colored plant pigments that are important in the photosynthesis process. Carotenes are what help protect plants as well as the body against the potentially damaging effects of free radicals.

MyNutritionStore.com declares that antioxidants are able to take away the power of free radicals. In other words, the free radical's ability to oxidize cells is eliminated. Oxidation of the body's cells is very similar to what happens when rust appears on a car. Once the cells inside the body start becoming oxidized, serious health complications often result. Some of these adverse conditions include heart disease, macular degeneration, arthritis, Alzheimer's disease and cataracts.

Since Vitamin A is necessary to support healthy skin, it's been labeled the 'anti-aging' vitamin because of its ability to ward off wrinkles. Vitamin A also helps keep the mucous membranes inside the throat, lungs, eyes, mouth, digestive tract, kidneys, bladder and reproductive system healthy, which is why it's believed that Vitamin A helps enhance the body's immune system.

To keep blood healthy, sufficient levels of Vitamin A are necessary to help increase the production of RNA. RNA is the part of the cell that includes the instructions for life. When RNA is rapidly reproduced it's able to help create new cells faster so that old and worn out cells can be efficiently replaced.

Vitamin A also lowers cholesterol levels and assists with hormone production.

Natural Sources

Fish liver oil is one of the best naturally-occurring sources of Vitamin A. Cod and halibut are good sources as well. In addition, Vitamin A is also found in eggs and milk, fruits and vegetables. Fruits with high vitamin A levels include nectarines, cantaloupes, apricots, mandarin oranges, plums, watermelons and mangos.

Dark green and brightly-colored vegetables such as kale, collard greens, escarole, chicory, endive, romaine lettuce, broccoli, peas, carrots, red pepper, pumpkin, squash, turnips, sweet potato and tomatoes are all excellent sources of Vitamin A.

Ideally, adults should strive to get 500 to 850 micrograms of Vitamin A each day. (600 micrograms for males, 500 micrograms for females, 800 micrograms during pregnancy and 850 micrograms during breast feeding).

Vitamin A Deficiencies

When the body does not get a sufficient quantity of Vitamin A, the part of the body first affected generally is vision. In particular, the ability to see clearly at night or in dim light is hampered. Night blindness and even dry eyes are typical symptoms. In addition to eye trouble, various diseases of the skin including acne and psoriasis can result from insufficient levels of Vitamin A.

A poor diet is frequently the cause of this type of vitamin deficiency. Particularly vulnerable are the elderly and those living in parts of the world where poor diets prevail.

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Special Vitamin Needs for Seniors

Being older does not necessarily mean being wiser when it comes to making the right food choices and proper senior nutrition. You’d think that by the time people reach their 'golden years' they would not only understand the importance of eating nutritionally-balanced meals. They'd be well-practiced in doing so.

The reality is, however, that for a number of different reasons, seniors often do not get the vitamins and minerals their aging bodies need to fight the onset of debilitating conditions including the signs of aging.

As people age, their bodies naturally become less efficient at using nutrients. To compound the situation, seniors generally develop more illnesses and as a result, tend to take more medications than other age groups. Many of these medications adversely affect the way the body breaks down nutrients.

MyNutritionStore.com says plenty of seniors are living alone and don't feel the need or the desire to prepare nutritionally-balanced meals. Add in the fact that most seniors don't moderately exercise on a regular basis and it's no wonder seniors so frequently exhibit the symptoms of different vitamin deficiencies. As advanced as society is, a good percentage of seniors are considered 'undernourished'.

Vitamin D is as important to seniors as it is to children. It plays a vital role in the body's ability to absorb calcium, which is required to keep bones healthy. Without calcium, bones lose their mass, become brittle and bring about osteoporosis. Few seniors consume the proper amount of dairy products to ensure the body gets ample amounts of vitamin D.

Another serious condition confronting seniors is the oxidation damage caused by free radicals. These are unstable molecules that, when left on their own, run rampant throughout the body, destroying healthy cells. Oxidation is the same process that causes rust to develop on cars.

Antioxidants work to neutralize free radicals, a process which inhibits the amount of damage they cause. Fruits and vegetables are the best sources of antioxidants. They also contain beta-carotenes and a number of important vitamins including Vitamin A, C and E, yet few seniors consume the required amounts.

As healthy cells become damaged, seniors increase their risks of developing heart disease, arthritis, certain forms of cancers, cataracts, Parkinson's disease and many other disorders. Antioxidants also keep the immune system functioning properly. As healthy skin cells break down, skin loses its elasticity and begins to sag, wrinkle and look older.

The body needs Vitamin K to keep the body's blood clotting mechanism functioning properly, yet once again, few seniors get enough. The absence of Vitamin K is believed to also be linked to the onset of Alzheimer's disease.

The list of conditions that result from vitamin deficiencies is long. Everyone, regardless of age, needs to understand the importance of giving their bodies nutrients in order to maintain good health.

If you're not getting the right mix of nutrients from your diet, regardless of the reason, it may be necessary to supplement your diet by taking a daily multi-vitamin. For the most benefit, choose one that has been formulated to suit the changing dietary needs of older individuals.

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Special Vitamin Needs for Children

Eating a nutritionally-balanced diet is good advice for children and adults. Teaching children to make the right food choices is one of the best tools you can arm them with. Unfortunately, many children today aren't taught how to make good choices because their parents don't know what 'right' food choices are.

There's no denying that the vitamins and minerals children need to grown are found in fruits and vegetables. They're also found in lean meats and dairy products, foods that children generally pass up when given the choice. Why eat those foods when the world has so many others to offer?

Take a look at food through a child's eye. What do you see? Pizza, ice cream, corn dogs, hot dogs, French fries, potato chips, sugary fruit drinks, energy drinks, caffeinated soda, cake, cookies, candy, processed portable lunch 'kits' and of course, the all-important, readily-available, drive-thru fast food.

MyNutritonStore.com says if you've ever taken a look at the food pyramid, you know that these types of foods are represented, but only by a tiny sliver. That means these foods should make up just a fraction of a person's daily food intake. They shouldn't be eaten at each meal, and in between, as snacks. But they are, all too often. It's obvious just by looking at children that many are not eating properly.

Not only are the wrong food choices causing children to be dangerously overweight, they're also the reason why many children are not getting the vitamins and minerals their bodies need to function properly. Of the essential vitamins and minerals the body needs, it is capable of producing just a few on its own. The rest must come from food.

From the first days of life, a child needs Vitamin D. Vitamin D is crucial to the development of healthy, strong teeth and bones. Rickets, a disease thought to be under control, is once again becoming a serious health issue. Its symptoms include bones that are deformed and that are soft and brittle. The skull, for example, is supposed to be thick and hard. One of the first notable signs of rickets is a skull that is thin and soft. If the shape of the head doesn't form properly, as can happen with Rickets, teeth may not grow in properly. And from there, it's getting worse. Wrists, ribs, knees, ankles all may experience abnormal growth.

MyNutritionStore.com goes on to say that deficiencies in other vitamins may not produce such obvious effects, which is why many parents may not even realize problems exist. Vitamins provide the instructions for all bodily functions including vision, production of red blood cells and growth hormones and proper development of every major system including the immune system, circulatory system and digestive system.

If your child's diet consists of the foods listed above, you need to take immediate action. Try to introduce more vitamin-dense foods into the diet. In the meantime, encourage your child to take a daily vitamin supplement that has been formulated for children. It will provide the nutrients your child needs to develop properly, it'll taste good, and it'll be easy to chew or swallow.

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Fat and Water Soluble Vitamins

According to MyNutritionStore.com, most people do not even realize that vitamins are different, but they are. Besides the obvious letter difference, vitamins can be classified as either Fat Soluble or Water Soluble. Whether the vitamin is fat soluble or water soluble has to do with the way the body processes it. Should this difference matter to you? Well, yes and no.

At a basic level, whether or not a vitamin is fat soluble or water soluble doesn't really matter. What is most important is ensuring your body gets the recommended daily allowances of each. Regardless of whether you're getting your vitamins via your diet or by supplementation, avoiding a vitamin deficiency is what will keep the body in good health.

When looked at from a chemical aspect, the differences between a vitamin that is fat soluble or water soluble are fairly complicated. Most people don't care to understand all that is involved 'behind the scenes'.

What's important is that the body is able to store fat soluble vitamins but not water soluble vitamins. The fat soluble vitamins, including vitamins A, D, E and K, are absorbed through the large intestines. For this absorption process to work properly dietary fat must also be present. If fat is not eaten along with the fat soluble vitamins, it will be more difficult for the body to complete the absorption process. Once they are finally absorbed however, fat soluble vitamins are stored in the liver. There they wait until they are called on to do their jobs.

Let's take a closer look at the fat soluble vitamins. Vitamin K helps the body metabolize food into energy. It's responsible for protecting the blood's clotting ability by supplying the seven blood clotting proteins involved in the process. It's also necessary for normal bone growth.

Vitamin E is an important antioxidant. It protects Vitamins A and C and it plays a crucial role in protecting fatty acids and red blood cells from being destroyed.

Without Vitamin D, the body could not efficiently absorb calcium. Vitamin D helps regulate the amount of calcium and phosphorous in the blood. Storing Vitamin D helps ensure that even if a person doesn't drink enough milk, bones won't suffer.

Vitamin A is the vision vitamin. It helps eyes focus in dim light and helps differentiate colors. It also plays a vital role in tissue growth and differentiation. It boosts the immune system's ability to fight infection. A special protein called a transport protein helps the Vitamin A that is stored in the liver travel to the tissues where it is needed.

Water soluble vitamins, on the other hand, are not stored in the body. Because the body isn't able to store these vitamins these vitamins must be constantly resupplied. As water soluble vitamins enter the body, they are put to work. The excess is eliminated from the body via the urine. The vitamins that make up the water soluble category include the B vitamins, Vitamin C and Vitamin H (Biotin).

The B vitamins are responsible for several crucial bodily functions. During the process of converting glucose from carbohydrates, the B vitamins provide energy to the body. Without B vitamins, the body wouldn't be able to properly metabolize proteins and fats.

One of Biotin's primary responsibilities is to ensure proper growth and Vitamin C is important for its antioxidant effects but both benefit the body in many other ways, too.

If you can't get the vitamins you need from consuming a balanced diet, consider taking a multivitamin supplement. Your health depends on it!

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Tea – Green Tea – Healthy, Wealthy and Wise

The role of green tea in promoting health has been much in the news in the last few years. There is ample evidence that, consumed in moderation, green tea indeed does aid many aspects of functioning. Some of these benefits have been known for over a thousand years.

MyNutritionStore.com states the polyphenols, flavonoids and even caffeine (in moderate quantities) present in green tea are all known to help the body protect itself. Green tea helps lower cholesterol (the 'bad' kind), absorbs free radicals that can damage cell membranes and reduces the prospect of certain cancers.

Despite Federal FDA denials, many studies lend strong support to those who tout green tea's benefits. Black tea, as well, has most of the same benefits.

But green tea has many virtues beyond the medicinal. It tastes delightful and provides a relaxing form of enjoyment in a hectic world.

Just as with black or Oolong tea, green tea comes from the leaves of an evergreen called Camellia Sinensis. They are plucked, then processed. But unlike black tea, green tea leaves do not go through a long oxidation process.

Instead, green tea leaves are steamed, which retains the EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) antioxidants. Black and Oolong teas undergo 'fermentation' which converts the EGCG into other compounds. 'Fermentation' in tea, despite the use of the same word, is not the same process as in winemaking. No sugars are converted to alcohol. It's simply a synonym for oxidation, more or less.

As a result, the tea flavor is much more delicate and the aroma and taste retain much more of the 'vegetative' quality from the original bush. That flavor is enjoyed in a hundred varieties by tea drinkers the world over.

The Long Jing tea from Hang Zhou in China, pan dried and flat in appearance, often goes by the name Dragon Well. This green tea is among the most common drinks in China. Yet for all its commonality, it makes a fine brew. The Gyokuro, also known as Jewel Dew as a consequence of its color, is another fine green tea from China.

The Ryokucha from Japan is a green tea that is so common there that a form of the word (ocha) is often taken to mean simply 'tea'. Connoisseurs regard the green tea from the Uji region of Kyoto to be among the finest. Matcha is a powdered green tea once used primarily in tea ceremonies. Now it is so popular throughout Japan and elsewhere that it finds its way into ice cream and other sweets.

Gunpowder, which has nothing to do with the explosive, is another popular variety of green tea. The leaves are rolled into tiny pellets, making for a very intense infusion. Its muscatel overtones make for a wonderful brew.

There is even a green tea-style Earl Grey. Though without the heady flavor of the more common black tea type, the bergamot oil combines well with green tea.

So if you have always been a committed black tea drinker, it's time to open up your horizons. It may not make you wealthy, but it can give you enjoyment and promote your health. And isn't that very wise?

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Tea – Yerba Mate, South American Delight

Tea is most commonly associated with Asia. And it's true that the majority of tea comes from China, India and other countries in that area. But there are other countries that have the climate, soil and expertise to produce a fine tea and another plant makes for a great tea, and this one is cultivated in South America: Yerba Mate

MyNutritionStore.com states that in recent years, South Africa has been on the radar with the rising popularity of Rooibos. Delightful as it is, Rooibos is not a traditional tea. It's not made from the Camilla Senensis plant.

Produced from the Ilex Paraguariensis tree, part of the holly family, it makes a fine herbal tea. Grown in Paraguay, Uruguay, Argentina and Brazil it is a South American wonder. Each country has its own distinctive style of Yerba Mate tea. In Brazil, the leaves are toasted, yielding a stronger taste. In Argentina, the cocido is a fine breakfast tea.

Like other herbal teas, it has many of the great health benefits of a traditional leaf. It provides a relaxing drink while aiding digestion. And it still has many of the antioxidants that are helpful in warding of cancers.

Even in bag or loose leaf form it still makes for a great brew. It can be a very fine, almost powdery substance, though. The leaves are dried, then crumbled into a very fine brown-leaf tea mixture. So, if you don't care for bits of herb in the liquid, filter well. The tea can even be prepared in a French press.

It's easy to obtain in bag form, but for a more traditional South American brew there's an alternative preparation method. Instead of a teapot, a gourd and a bombilla is used. The gourd (called a mate) is used in place of a cup, and the bombilla is a metal straw that gives the smooth herbal a nice little tang.

Fill the gourd 3/4 full of herb, then pour cold water over them until they're wetted but not drowned. Let them soak for a few minutes. While you wait, heat a cup of water to about 82°C/180°F, then add enough water to fill the gourd. Steep for a few minutes. Then insert the bombilla filter end down into the liquid and sip. Arriba!

In the traditional social setting, one person typically takes the role of preparer and server and has the first sip. Then the gourd and straw is passed from one person to the next. And you thought only the Japanese had tea rituals!

Pick up a gourd and bombilla and have some tea South American style.

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Tea – White Tea, Delicacy Personified

White tea is made from the same plant as is green tea, but undergoes a very different process. It begins with the rolled buds of the Camellia Sinensis plant, but suffers no oxidation.

According to MyNutritionStore.com, the oxidation process lacking in white tea, often called fermentation, is what produces the distinctive color and taste of other teas. Though the word is the same, 'fermentation' in tea circles does not mean the same as when it's used in relation to wine. No sugars are altered to produce alcohol.

Instead of oxidation, the buds are dried by steaming, then air dried. No rolling or crushing occurs. This leaves the enzymes in the leaves intact, unexposed to air. Water evaporates more slowly and up to 40% of the original weight is lost. Then the leaves are slow-roasted to remove about 95% of their moisture content.

The result is a tea with very little caffeine and a very light color and delicate taste. The final product has a very fresh taste, somewhat like real leaves or grass, that is preferred by some tea aficionados. Leaves gathered in the early spring provide a clean cup with a fragrance that has a hint of outdoors.

A type called Silver Needle that hails from the Fujian province in China is an especial treat. The Darjeeling province in India makes a fine white tea as well. And there is a variety called Ceylon White that hails from Sri Lanka.

But there's more to white tea than just good taste.

Though still an area of active research, there are studies that suggest white tea is even healthier than the already great green tea. Green tea stimulates the immune system to fight infection and according to a recent study at the Pace University, that property may be even more pronounced in white tea. It has an anti-viral and anti-bacterial effect.

With its lower caffeine content (15 mg per serving, compared to 40 mg for black tea, and 20 mg for green tea) white teas will be a great addition to the 'decaf' section of your tea tin.

Brew about 2.5 grams (1,5 teaspoons) for every 200 ml (6 oz). Heat the water to 82°C (180°F), then steep the leaves for a few minutes. Cool to taste and enjoy this ancient delight as a new experience.

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Tea – Variety is the Spice of Life

Variety is the Spice of Life. There are, fortunately for tea lovers, as many types and blends of tea as there are kinds of coffee. And, that's a delightfully high number!

For the lover of strong brew, there is the Assam black from India - a malty cup that can really wake you up in the morning. The Keemun black from the interior of China is a great alternative for those cold, rainy days of Fall.

MyNutritionStore.com, there are the smooth Ceylon blacks from Sri Lanka, that make a wonderfully relaxing drink at the end of a hard day. Ceylon is a former name for that country. Or one might try the renowned Darjeeling muscatel from high in the Himalayas.

But many prefer the gentler green teas from throughout Asia. The Japanese generously provide a platter full of options. The Kukicha is a mix of leaves and twigs, just the thing to spice up an otherwise bland drink. China offers a Mandarin with hints of apricot that does that noble country proud.

From the Fujian province in China comes the Pi Lo Chun that no sensible tea lover will pass up the opportunity to test. The White Monkey should be sampled, if for no other reason than to try to guess what the name has to do with this delicious green.

Africa, Kenya in particular, is now one of the largest exporters of black tea in the world. But size doesn't always characterize the country best. The red Rooibos of South Africa is simply delicious. And taste is the final arbiter anywhere.

The Rooibos makes for an excellent drink plain or combined with a broad palette of additives. Vanilla, mango, berry even the perfumey Earl Grey are superb variations on an already first-rate brew.

But, oh, those Oolongs. Formosa Oolong may be the most well known and certainly ranks among the finest, but there are others equally worth tasting. A Wu Yi from coastal China is a must. The Jasmine, with an aroma that brings memories of spring to the mind and delight to the soul, is mandatory.

Darjeeling, India produces an Oolong that does credit to one of the world's oldest and largest producers of fine tea. After all, not everything Asian is Oriental. Heavy domestic demand has limited the supply and therefore raised prices. But a tea this good is worth a little more.

Being provincial is a natural human impulse. But those with the daring to explore the world are the fountainheads of human progress. Join their ranks and sample some of the planet's fine brews from across the seas. Hoist sail!

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Tea – Teaware Everywhere

If you can't find the kind of teaware online that suits your particular taste and needs, you should invent your own. The reason is simple: there is more variety in teapots, infusers, strainers, cups and more than there ever were add-ons for photography buffs.

A teapot is central to the set and you will find yourself simultaneously frustrated and delighted at the options. You could consume a week just cataloging all the different choices.

According to MyNutritionStore.com states everything from chrome and plastic to ceramic to clay to glass is available and each has its pros and cons. There are teapots with in-built timers and thermometers, detachable base plates and handles... the list is endless.

Some look very much like ordinary traditional coffee pots. But even those have all sorts of extra, modern conveniences like a detachable pot from the heating base for example. Very handy for preparation and pouring.

Others have the look of a much older tradition - the look of ancient China. Yixing clay teapots, of the sort that have been made by fine craftsmen in China for centuries, are both functional and beautiful. Today they have the added advantage of being prepared in modern clay ovens with extraordinary quality control. They represent the best of art and technology combined.

Traditional porcelain teapots from Japan are both works of art and utilitarian objects. Strong, yet with delicate designs, these shining white and blue containers look great and function perfectly even in the most modern of kitchens.

Many American designs now emulate the best of Scandinavia, where tea drinking is an art done with the practical sense of the Danes or Finns. One elegant glass design has an oversized cup with a plate that sits on top and holds a strainer. The assembly on top makes it easy to prepare the tea to perfection, then lift off the upper components and carry the cup to your favorite easy chair for drinking.

The range of artistic styles, beyond the merely functional, would fill a museum. Along with the teapot, the tea devotee will find an equally abundant array of choices for other teaware.

Strainers or infusers, which are used to strain hot water through tea leaves, are essential for those who want to expand their choices beyond tea bags. These come in a variety of materials and designs. Pyrex, copper or aluminum, ceramic and other materials are used. Large mesh, fine mesh and everything in between are useful since you may want to use large leaves or even fine tea powder.

A tea caddy is helpful for those who like to buy in quantity or have on hand different types of tea. That would be everyone, wouldn't it? They come in a large range of sizes and designs. Some hold only one type, some have compartments for holding bags, leaves or powder in different chambers.

While you're buying, don't forget to look for that unique cup that fits your hand and tastes. Then, in about a year when you've reviewed one percent of what's available, you can actually sit down and brew a cup, then relax. After all that shopping, you'll need one.

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Tea – Tea Tins and Tea Chests

Tea tins or tea chests. Whether you prefer loose leaf or bag, or enjoy both, you'll want to keep that fine tea you searched so hard for in optimal condition.

According to MyNutritionStore.com, similar to coffee and other organic products, tea can degrade and go stale. Oxygen-filled air and airborne compounds can destroy a fine tea leaf, or infuse it with unpleasant odors and tastes. Fortunately, there is a world of tea tins and tea chests that can prevent those problems. A fine container, also known as a tea caddy, will keep your tea fresh and add a decorative element to the kitchen.

Tea tins and chests come in all sizes, shapes and designs. Few are made of tin anymore, despite the name. But if plastic is not your preferred material there are rust-proof metal tins that can seal airtight and keep your stash fresh as the day you bought it.

Porcelain, glass, plastic, wood and entirely new kinds of materials are being used for tins today. You can enjoy the fine traditional look of a Japanese porcelain or the latest Swedish composite that could seal a modern mummy.

Some are just round, rectangular or octagonal containers in which you dump loose leaf or bags. But others have compartments that help keep your teas separated and organized. You'll want to keep loose leaf teas in either separate tins or find a tin that has individually sealing compartments. The latter type has smaller cubical areas that enclose individually or close off each one separately when you shut the lid.

Tea chests often allow for holding dozens of individual sachets or bags. Here again, the design you get will be dictated by the type of tea, tea bag and decorative element desired. Individual sachets are air-permeable, so it's important to get a chest that can seal each compartment. If you buy sealed bags, then the design options are wider.

Chests can hold from as small as a dozen to over a hundred and many make for fine furniture. Teak, and other fine woods are often used and the display is equivalent to a fine cigar holder. Some have cherry finishes, others ebony, others still another color. Some with glass tops are available, but exercise caution. Glass transmits heat much better than fine woods, so you'll need to keep the tin somewhere out of the sunlight. Also, UV can degrade both fine mesh bags and the tea leaves themselves, so the interior should be kept dark.

In either style, tin or chest, fine teas can be kept fresh up to a year, depending on how often they're opened and how the tea itself is stored. Small, flexible metal or plasticized paper can seal extremely well. Sachets and other fine cloth mesh will allow exposure to air. But the latter are often used for the finest teas and are intended to be consumed fairly quickly.

You may want just an inexpensive, but attractive, tea tin to hold a few bags. Or, you might prefer a finely crafted piece of furniture for the kitchen that contains hundreds of dollars of fine tea. Whatever your preference, there's a tin or chest tea caddy in a price and style perfect for you.

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Tea – Roobios, The Red Delight Tea

Derived from the Afrikaans word for 'red bush', Rooibos is not a true tea. It comes from the plant Aspalathus Linearis, rather than Camellia Sinensism generally used for making tea. But, as Shakespeare stated: 'A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.' Or in this case, taste as sweet.

And Rooibos teas are certainly that. This shrubby bush with thin, needle-like leaves produces a brew that is light, sweet and delicious. The difference in color, which is indeed a light red, even adds to the experience. The color is a nice change from the green or dark brown of more traditional teas.

But then, tradition is different in different places. In South Africa, the home of the native Rooibos bush, the tea has been providing the populace with a wonderful brew for generations. When WWII restricted imports of Asian teas, those who supplied the millions wanting their afternoon cup went looking elsewhere.

According to MyNutritionStore.com, they found it in the Cedarberg mountains where farmers harvest its low-volume seeds to produce a drink that has become popular worldwide. The tea is finely chopped, then left in the hot South African sun to dry.

The leaves are originally green, but turn red from this oxidation process, called 'fermentation'. In tea parlance fermentation bears no similarity to the word as used by wine producers. No sugars are fermented to make alcohol from the plant. The result is a leaf ready to make a delectable drink.

But Rooibos has more benefits than simply good taste. As if anything more were needed!

Rooibos is caffeine-free, yet retains the same anti-oxidant value that is found in green teas. That makes it heart-healthy and a value for those who drink tea for its cancer fighting properties and other health benefits. It's low in tannin, so you can have numerous cups without concern. Tannins lower the absorption of iron and other minerals.

Like other teas, there is some evidence that it has additional health-boosting abilities. Some studies suggest it helps the immune system, just like other teas. It also has been reported to aid in relieving stomach cramps. Since it has no oxalic acid, it can be drunk by those with a tendency to produce kidney stones.

You may find the product labeled Herbal Allergy tea, owing to its reputed ability to aid allergy sufferers. Or it may be labeled Red Bush and available in the section used to treat skin disorders, such as eczema.
But, again, by any other name it is still a wonderful addition to the tea tin. And that's a tradition that is worth maintaining.

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Tea – Oolong, The Black Dragon Tea

Green or Black? Sometimes you can't decide. Normally the middle ground is the province of those who just can't commit. But when it comes to tea drinking, compromise is no vice. Try Oolong.

According to MyNutritionStore.com, the word comes from the Chinese, meaning 'Black Dragon' and there are a dozen legends surrounding the origin of the name. But one thing is certainly no myth: this is a fine tea.

Midway between a black and a green, Oolong originated in the Fujian Province near the end of the Ming Dynasty 400 years ago. It gradually migrated to Formosa (now Taiwan) and has been a staple product of that noble nation ever since. Though, the majority still comes from Wu Yi Shan mountain in China.

It is not only a delight to taste, when well prepared, but has a distinctive aroma owing to its moderate oxidation and careful processing. The floral scent and slightly astringent mouth feel bears a similarity to a fine wine. And that is no accident.

Most of the processing is carried out by hand, beginning with the careful plucking by individual farm workers. Selecting an Oolong for harvesting is done as carefully as the picking of perfect grapes by vineyard workers.

Unlike most teas, running hot water through the Oolong leaves more than once can actually enhance the flavor. This rinses away any residual dust or other contaminants from processing. The second bath brings pure Oolong flavor into the cup. This special Taiwanese method of tea preparation has brought the Oolong to the pinnacle of a fine brew.

But more than just a delectable, relaxing drink Oolong also has many health benefits. Research strongly suggests that Oolong is good for several different body systems. The beneficial effects for the digestive system are well known and well documented.

But recent studies suggest that the volatile aromatic vapors from Oolong help dislodge toxic residues from the bronchia and air sacs of the lungs. They can then be expectorated (coughed up and spat out). This effect may help to explain why Chinese men, among the heavier smokers on the planet, tend to have fewer cases of lung cancer.

Oolong teas also contain plentiful amounts of the antioxidants polyphenol and catechins. These help gather free radicals from the blood stream, which are removed during urination. Free radicals are ionized molecules that, in concentration, destroy cell membranes and have other harmful effects.

Oolong comes in a hundred varieties, and nearly every one can be found at some Chinese restaurant or other. There is the Da Hong Pao (Big Red Robe), the Shui Jin Gui (Water Turtle) and many other delightful kinds with equally evocative names. The Golden Buddha produces a light brew, while the Water Sprite is a dark tea. The Dong Ding from Nantou in central Taiwan is a favorite of those who favor Oolong.

But there are times when you want to have a cup without the accompanying Dim Sum. Fear not, for any of those varieties is available online with a few mouse clicks. Drink up!

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Tea – Loose Leaf vs Tea Bags

Loose leaf tea or tea bags? You don't have time to perform a Japanese tea ceremony, carefully preparing each component, then drinking the result in a leisurely way. But you do enjoy a truly fine cup. What to do?

According to MyNutritionStore.com the dilemma of loose leaf tea vs tea bags may never be fully resolved, but the choice starts with exploring loose leaf versus tea in tea bags. Thomas Sullivan is reputed to have first introduced tea bags in the mid-19th century. He made samples of different teas carefully enclosed in a cloth bag for his customers, to help them select a tea. He intended them to open the bag and prepare the tea from its contents.

He soon discovered they were using the samples unopened in order to make their brew. The fine cloth mesh kept the tea leaf bits from making their way into the cup. That created the possibility of drinking it down to the last drop without having to ingest the leaves. The method was a hit.

More than a century has passed and bags and their contents have gone through much evolution, sometimes not for the better. Bags today are finer, stronger, and lighter weight. They're manufactured and inspected to the highest health standards. But the contents are not always the best that can be had in the world of tea.

In the 1970s, 'natural' became the watchword of all food and beverage products, especially those made from plants. Tea certainly qualifies. As a result, loose leaf tea was looked on as a superior alternative. And, in many cases it is. There are hundreds of truly fine loose leaf teas imported from many parts of the globe.

Loose leaf teas from China, India, Japan, and elsewhere can be as pleasing to the connoisseur as a fine wine. The gentle jasmine from China stacks up well against a sweet orange tea from Turkey. Or, one may enjoy an outstanding mint tea from Africa.

By contrast, many bag teas are made essentially from left-overs, called fannings. Scraps of tea leaf that remain from processing are fed into a machine that fills thousands of bags per hour. The result is lined up into a box that contains a hundred or more which is shipped off to a grocery store. There it sits until someone takes it home. By the time it is actually consumed, a tea that was never very high quality to begin with may be stale.

But simply being in a bag isn't an inevitable sign of low quality. Many vendors have evolved from the granola days to combine the high quality of a loose leaf tea with the convenience and other benefits of a bag. Though they often go by the more elegant name of "sachet," it's still tea in a bag. But the difference is that the tea is of the utmost quality and is sold fresh. That difference is important.

So, retain your busy lifestyle when you must. But take a few minutes on occasion to celebrate your efforts. Treat yourself to a truly fine cup of tea, and enjoy it without a dozen distractions. You've earned it.

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Tea – Intro to the Ancient Beverage Moderns Enjoy

Tea, as a beverage, is older than coffee, older than wine and maybe even older than beer. Some may argue about the latter, since some types of beer may be as old as 10,000 years, while tea has been around for 'only' about 5,000. Regardless, tea is old.

According to MyNutritionStore.com, tea is also enormously popular. That much is obvious at a casual glance. But just how popular is it? Annual production today of tea leaves is in the neighborhood of 2 billion pounds. Yes, billion. Considering it only takes an ounce or so to make a cup, that's a lot of tea. And that is the annual production. Annual, as in: 'every year'.

Well, you say, at least tea has less caffeine than coffee. Yes and no. Tea leaves have about 1-3% caffeine by weight, more than twice as much as a similar weight of coffee beans. But, it's true that a prepared cup of coffee will have about 100mg of caffeine and tea only about 60mg. And, after all, people drink tea and coffee much more often than they eat the leaves or beans.

Beer, wine, coffee and tea all have health benefits some of which are the result of the very same compounds present in the drink. Antioxidants are present in both wine and tea. Caffeine, in moderate amounts, has been shown to have healthy effects.

But, let's face it. For most people it isn't history or economics or science or medicine that creates the huge, centuries-old and present-day demand for tea. Tea is simply wonderful to drink.

Whether you want a robust pick me up in the morning, or a relaxing hot cup at night, tea is - dare we say it - perfect. It clears out the cobwebs and at the same time relaxes. Iced or hot, green or black (or Oolong, which is in between), or even red or white (yes, they exist), tea tastes great and makes you feel wonderful.

Throughout history and up to the present day, drinking tea has been both a delightful experience and a social ceremony. Yes, people will certainly sit down and enjoy a cup of coffee or a mug of beer or glass of wine together.

But in very few cultures is there anything like a 'beer ceremony'. Ok, in a way there are, among college students. But, calling those 'ceremonies' is really stretching a point. Anyway, tea ceremonies aren't exclusive to Japan. In England it's practically an afternoon requirement. New York has clubs devoted to the fine art of tea.

East and west sometimes agree on very little. But all over the world - China, Turkey, Russia, Australia, the U.S. and the UK, and all the points on the map in between enjoy a cup of tea.

So wherever you are, you can now have a Wu Yi in a Yixing clay pot, or a Rooibos in a Danish glass cup. You can enjoy a lemon grass tisane or even a blueberry vanilla Ceylon. What you can't do, if you are among the over one billion tea drinkers in the world, is resist a perfectly brewed cup of the world's finest drink. Tea.

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Tea – How to Brew Tea

How to brew tea? What could be more important than preparing a fine cup of tea the right way? You've spent the time to find and the money to buy a good product. It should be prepared as it, and you, deserve.

Most don't have time for a Japanese tea ceremony. A full ritual, with food and drink, can take up to five hours. So, for those with less time, but the desire for a good brew, here are some tips.

According to MyNutritionStore.com, the first thing to examine in how to brew tea is the water you use. Even the finest leaf can yield a less than stellar cup if the water is wrong.

It can be too heavily chlorinated, or full of minerals, or 'stale'. Yes, water can get stale, in the sense that - since it absorbs odors from the air - it can contain chemicals that lessen the quality of your cup of brewed tea.

Water can contain heavy concentrations of calcium carbonate. That's the white powder that builds up around the spout or on the tile in the kitchen or bathroom. It's not harmful. In fact, a certain amount of it is healthy. But it darkens the brew. Pure H2O will leave a cup much lighter looking. Water can also have a large relative amount of iron. Again, that isn't necessarily unhealthy, but it can alter the taste somewhat, giving it a metallic overtone.

Water temperature is important, too. Boiling hot water can be a little too 'aggressive' on a tea leaf. Water around 80°C/176°F, on average, is preferred. (Pure H2O at 1 atmosphere of pressure, around sea level, boils at 100°C/220°F.) The exact temperature varies a little bit with the type of tea, however.

Black teas do well with water that is nearer boiling. Oolongs are better at a slightly lower temperature. Green tea can become bitter if the water is too hot and white tea needs the lowest temperature of all. Some experimentation will be needed.

Adding the right amount of tea will take a little trial and error too. Start with one teaspoon per cup. Adjust to personal taste - some prefer a little stronger brew, others a lighter one. If you want a natural way of reducing caffeine, but don't want to buy decaf, use the same tea for a second cup and discard the first. Most of the caffeine will get into the first one.

Steeping time varies a little, but 2-3 minutes is about right for most teas and tea drinkers. If you're in a hurry and you use tea bags, you can speed up the process by dunking. But, beware. True aficionados will be horrified if they see you! Here again, personal preference will influence the time, since steeping longer brings out more flavor, color, tannins and caffeine.

If you add milk to your tea, and you should at least try it once, you'll want to steep a little longer. Longer steeping times brings out more tannins and other compounds that will get 'softened' by the milk. But you'll still want to drink something that tastes like tea, not like milk. It's tea with milk, after all, not milk with tea flavoring. If you use loose leaf, invest in a good pot and/or tea strainer to keep the leaf parts from falling into the bottom of the cup.

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Tea – Herbal Tea – What’s in Name

Herbal tea or tisane, which isn't actually made from the tea bush Camilla Sinensis, has been consumed for at least as long as the genuine article - over 5,000 years.

MyNutritionStore.com states that herbal tea is made from a variety of plants, and prepared in a similar way (infusing hot water through the substance), herbal teas provide many of the same values. They're relaxing, enjoyable, tasty and have many health benefits.

Chamomile, for example, is one of the most popular of herbal teas. A plant known to have medicinal qualities at least as far back as ancient Egypt, it makes a pleasant brew. It can help relieve anxiety and act as a mild soporific (sleeping brew). It is naturally caffeine free and has a delightful floral aroma and taste.

Dried lemon grass is another very common base used to make herbal tea. Not surprisingly, it has a slightly lemony flavor and its spicy aftertaste brings a pleasant zing to the palate. Studies strongly suggest it has antibacterial properties, too, and it's known to aid digestion.

Sage, though often used as an herb in cooking, makes for a superb tisane. The calming effect of sage herbal tea is well known, but it also has a very light taste. Slightly peppery, it goes well with a variety of dishes or stands well all on its own.

But bushy plants are not the only source of herbal teas. Rose Hips, for example, have long been used to make a fine brew. Produced from the fruit of the rose plant, this reddish drink has a delicate taste and provides ample vitamin C. A dried 100g sample will contain almost 2g of vitamin C.

During WWII, when imports of oranges were restricted by the war, the locals turned to Rose Hips to help supplement their need for that important vitamin.

While the alleged aphrodisiac effect of ginseng is still up for debate, both the delightful taste and the health benefits have been well established. It should be consumed in moderation, since drinking herbal ginseng tea can lead to excess nervousness.

Produced from the fleshy root of the Panax plant, ginseng has a very distinctive taste. Some find it bitter, others liken it to a mild soda pop. As with any herbal, you either like it or you don't.

Rooibos, an African word for 'red bush', while not a true tea, is closer to black tea than many herbals. It is becoming increasingly popular in the U.S. and elsewhere, thanks to its distinctive taste and red color.

The color is appropriate, since the taste is - while hard to describe - also 'red'. Tangy, flavorful and with the clarity of a fine, light, black tea it is a wonderful addition to the tea tin.

Whether your goal is to relieve the symptoms of a cold, strive for longer life or simply to relax and have a tasty hot brew, herbal teas are an essential part of the connoisseur's cabinet.

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