Sips of Goodness

Yecenu Sasetu at the Nigerian International Tea Festival

By Yecenu Sasetu

I love Tea. Sorry, I have to say it again. I. love. Tea.

Maybe you are like me (or maybe not), but I believe tea is the first best thing before sliced bread. Yes, I said it...... lol.

 

Well, October gave me two sweet days in tea heaven. It was two glorious days of pleasing my taste buds with various flavours of Arabian tea, Doum tea, Masala Chai tea, Soursop tea, Karak tea, Chocolate mint tea, Bubble tea, Sugarcane tea: the list was endless, but I savored every second of it. 

It was also the Nigerian International Tea Festival, NITF.

Tea manufacturers and vendors came in from various parts of the country, and there was also a representative from the Global Japanese Tea Association who shared the Japanese tea culture with tea lovers. It was beautiful. 

But tea is beyond taste; it comes with many health benefits. For instance, Green tea offers antioxidants that help fight free radicals in your body and boost metabolism. Some blends like Arabian tea carry a mixture of spices such as cloves, which offer anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties; lemongrass, which supports digestion and helps calm the mind; and ginger, known to aid circulation, ease nausea, and strengthen the immune system.

For Masala Chai, my favourite, the cardamom, star anise, and cinnamon spices give the body warmth, improve digestion, and may even help balance blood sugar levels. Together, they create a comforting blend that not only awakens your senses but also nourishes you from within.

And tea is not just a Nigerian thing; it is a world affair. From the misty hills of Asia to the cozy tea rooms of England, every culture has its own tea story. The English, for example, have their beloved blends like Earl Grey with its hint of bergamot, English Breakfast that is bold and comforting (especially with milk), and Darjeeling, often called the 'champagne of teas' because of its elegant and floral flavour. 

In China, there is Longjing and Jasmine tea, known for their gentle flavours and calming aroma. The Japanese take pride in their Matcha, a bright green powdered tea that is as much a ritual as it is a drink. I tasted it at the tea festival, and I did not like it, but it is a great support for liver and heart health. Over in Morocco, Mint tea is served with warmth and hospitality, while in India, Masala Chai fills streets and homes with its sweet, spicy scent. You already know it is my personal favourite. It is amazing how one leaf has travelled the world, adapting, blending, and uniting people one sip at a time.

Your Tea Mood Guide

• Chamomile – For Relaxation and Calm: Soft, floral, and soothing. Perfect for quiet nights and gentle reflections.

• Green Tea – For Focus and Fresh Energy: When you need a clean lift and clear thoughts without the caffeine crash.

• Peppermint – For Clarity and Refreshment: Cool, crisp, and minty. It is your go-to when you are bloated, tired, or mentally foggy.

• Masala Chai – For Comfort and Warmth: A cup full of spice and love. Cardamom, ginger, cinnamon — like a warm hug on a busy day.

• Lemon and  Ginger – For Immunity and Renewal: When your body feels heavy, you need this to feel lighter.

• Hibiscus – For Joy and Vitality: Tart, fruity, and full of life. A happy burst of colour and flavour in every sip.

• Earl Grey – For Balance and Elegance: When you need to feel grounded yet graceful, the bergamot scent never fails.

• Soursop – For Healing and Restoration: A true detox companion.

• Rooibos – For Cozy Evenings and Self-Care: Naturally caffeine-free and earthy, a perfect night-time treat.

• Matcha – For Drive and Focus: Smooth, vibrant energy for the days when you need to get things done and stay centred.

At Shades Of Us, we celebrate the quirks and nuances that make up who we are, and the traditions that communities believe improve their health and wellbeing. We welcome variety, afterall, it is the spice of life. 

See what I did there? Hehehe.

Okay, I am off to brew a pot of Masala Chai. (I told you it is my favorite, and I can't wait to have my sips of goodness.)