Eden Organic Kukicha Japanese Loose Twig Tea

EDEN Organic Kukicha Tea is crafted from four different clippings of the tea bush (Camellia sinensis). The first clipping is from three year old, semi-wild plants, from which twigs from the under part of the bush are trimmed in autumn. The second clipping consists of thick twigs, that are harvested every 10 years usually in midwinter. During the autumn and winter the caffeine level is at its lowest. The third and forth clipping done every year in March and June, consists of small, thin twigs, stems, and mature brown dried leaves. These are the prunings that stimulate the growth of fresh green shoots. After harvesting the twigs are steamed to soften them and placed outside to dry in the sun for about one week depending upon the weather. Next, the sun dried twigs are placed in brown paper sacks and stored for 2 to 3 years in order to fully develop the best flavor. This process is called aging. After aging the twigs are cut and graded according to size. The twigs are separately roasted according to size to ensure even roasting in gas fired cast iron rotating ovens. This patient and ceremonious roasting slowly develops the distinctive smoky flavor and aroma that has made Kukicha Tea so popular among macrobiotic and natural food aficionados. Loose tea is a traditional way to make a satisfying pot of tea. Packaged in a protective, foil lined pouch that can re resealed after each use.

Kukicha tea was popularized in the US and Europe in the 1960s by George Ohsawa the founder of modern macrobiotics. Mr. Ohsawa considered kukicha to be the perfect complementary beverage for a grain based or mostly vegetarian diet due to its alkaline qualities and very low level of caffeine. Also known as 'twig tea', Kukicha is the lowest in caffeine of the traditional teas with 90 percent less caffeine than regular brewed coffee. It is soothing and balancing with a rich flavor and is an ideal meal's ending.

The flavor of tea reflects the soil it is grown in, the season picked, and the curing process. EDEN Kukicha Twig Tea is nurtured according to strict organic standards. The growers are dedicated to stewardship of their land, water and tea bushes. This dedication shows in their skillful traditional handling that gives us the best organic tea in the world.

All true teas stem from the plant Camellia sinensis, an attractive perennial shrub about five feet tall with gentle rounded leaves and tender twigs. Tea become green, black or other varieties depending on the time of harvest, the way they are cured, and handled.

Kukicha's natural tannins aid in digestion of grains and give it the peculiar ability to neutralize both acids and alkalai in food. Due to its particularly low levels of caffeine, Kukicha is considered to be an ideal beverage for both children and adults. Kukicha blends well with apple juice. Simply mix half kukicha and half apple juice for a perfect, year round beverage for children. Kukicha is one of the most popular teas sold in natural food stores.

EDEN Organic Kukicha Tea is produced in the ancient traditional manner as it has been for centuries. EDEN Traditional Teas contain no added flavorings, dyes or additives whatsoever during handling or packaging. A Satisfying, Healthy Drink.

Eden Organic Kukicha Twig Tea is made from the three Autumn and Winter clippings of the tea plant, Camellia sinensis. The first occurs when the plant is minimum of three years old. Twice per year thereafter thin twigs and stems are clipped, and ever ten years thick twigs are clipped. The twigs are separately steamed, sun dried for one week, aged for two to three years, then roasted in gas, fired, cast iron rotating ovens to develop its distinctive smoky flavor and aroma. Kukicha is soothing and calming. Its v:" ":tificial coloring, additives or chemicals.