Sencha Loose Leaf Tea – Organic – 4oz

Sencha tea, distinguished by its vibrant green color and refreshing taste, holds a prominent place in the annals of Japanese tea culture. While today it enjoys widespread global popularity, the roots of Sencha tea are deeply embedded in Japanese history, where it plays a pivotal role in both social and cultural narratives.

Historical Origin and Traditional Use

Sencha tea’s journey began during the Tang Dynasty in China. However, its widespread cultivation and appreciation in Japan began in earnest in the 17th century. Introduced by Ingen, a Japanese Buddhist monk, after a sojourn in China, Sencha soon found favor in Japanese households. Unlike its counterpart, matcha, which is ground to a powder, Sencha relies on the infusion of whole tea leaves. This tea, in its simplicity of preparation and delightful taste, captures the very essence of the leaf from which it originates.

The act of consuming Sencha is historically significant. Traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, often revolving around matcha, stand in contrast to the informal ambiance that characterizes Sencha consumption. Historically, Sencha drinking has been a reflection of Japan’s profound appreciation for nature’s transience, often enjoyed outdoors to coincide with the beauty of changing seasons.

Traditional Benefits

Beyond mere cultural resonance, Sencha tea has been a beacon of health in traditional contexts. Historically, both Chinese and Japanese medicinal practices extolled the virtues of Sencha for its numerous health benefits:

1. Detoxification: Sencha was historically consumed to aid detoxification. Its diuretic nature was believed to expedite the removal of bodily toxins.
2. Digestive Aid: Sencha’s properties were traditionally thought to aid digestion, particularly in metabolizing oily or fatty foods.
3. Longevity and Vitality: Green teas like Sencha were historically believed to promote longer life and vitality in various Eastern cultures.
4. Mental Clarity: To improve focus and thought clarity, monks often turned to Sencha, especially during prolonged meditation sessions.
5. Antioxidant Properties: While contemporary in its research-backed assertion, it’s believed that ancient practices recognized Sencha’s capacity to combat diseases, owing to its rich antioxidant profile.
6. Oral Health: Traditional use also hints at Sencha’s ability to promote oral health, reducing bacteria and improving overall dental hygiene.
7. Mood Enhancement: Historical narratives suggest that Sencha’s unique combination of compounds was believed to improve mood and promote relaxation.

References:

• Higdon, J. V., & Frei, B. (2003). Tea catechins and polyphenols: health effects, metabolism, and antioxidant functions. Critical reviews in food science and nutrition, 43(1), 89-143.
• Kakuda, T. (2002). Neuroprotective effects of the green tea components theanine and catechins. Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 25(12), 1513-1518.
• Kuriyama, S., Shimazu, T., Ohmori, K., Kikuchi, N., Nakaya, N., Nishino, Y., … & Tsuji, I. (2006). Green tea consumption and mortality due to cardiovascular disease, cancer, and all causes in Japan: the Ohsaki study. JAMA, 296(10), 1255-1265.

Directions: Steep tea in hot water.  Let cool. Drink as desired.

Ingredients: Organic Sencha Loose Leaf Tea

Disclaimer: This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Pregnant or nursing mothers, children under the age of 18 and individuals with a known medical condition should consult a physician before using this or any supplement.