How to Dry Gardenias for Tea
In the midsummer season, gardenias are in full bloom, exuding a fragrance. This pure white, fragrant plant is not only a beautiful sight in the courtyard but also a healthful product. Making tea from gardenias has been folk wisdom since ancient times, but how to preserve their full aroma and effective ingredients? From picking the flower buds to steeping the tea, each step contains the secrets of nature's gifts.
Three Techniques for Drying Gardenias
Selection Standards for Raw Materials
Unbloomed flower buds with dew in the morning are the first choice, as this is when the essential oil content peaks. Remove petals with insect spots or yellowing and keep the plump flower crowns 2-3 cm in diameter. Distinguish between ornamental and edible varieties, and it is recommended to choose single-petal gardenias.
Natural Drying Process
Lay xuan paper on a bamboo winnowing basket and place the flower crowns downward in a single layer. Put it in a well-ventilated, shady place and turn it three times a day to prevent mildew. Maintain an environmental humidity of less than 50% during the drying process, which takes about 5-7 days to complete the dehydration.
Modern Baking Techniques
Set the oven to a low temperature of 50°C and place baking paper on the shelves. Observe the花瓣 contraction every half hour and keep the oven door slightly open throughout. Traditional charcoal fire baking requires the use of a simmering method, with heat evenly distributed through ceramic pieces.
The Art of Brewing Gardenia Tea
Secrets of Water Temperature Control
Water at 92-95°C is best, let it boil and then sit for 30 seconds. High temperatures can destroy the gardenoside components, while low temperatures cannot activate the essential oils. It is recommended to use a long-spout kettle to pour water from a height to increase the dissolved oxygen.
The Science of Tea Ware Matching
Coarse ceramic tea bowls can absorb impurities, while glass cups are suitable for observing the blooming form. For every 200 ml of capacity, use 3 dried flowers, and adding fresh lemon slices during the second infusion can increase the absorption of vitamin C.
Healthy Consumption Times
In the afternoon, during the time of the bladder meridian (3-5 pm), drinking gardenia tea with茯苓糕 can enhance the diuretic effect. Drinking it at night is recommended with wolfberries to balance the cold nature.
Four Health Secrets of Gardenia Tea
Coagulating Blood and Protecting the Liver
Gardenias contain safflower acid derivatives that can enhance the activity of glutathione in liver cells. Regular consumption can lower the transaminase index, especially suitable for people who frequently entertain.
Respiratory Tract Care
The volatile component eucalyptol can enhance ciliary movement, and when combined with loquat leaves, it can form a natural atomizing effect. Gargling with the tea in the morning during autumn and winter can prevent sore throat.
Nervous System Regulation
Improvement of Intestinal Ecology
Water-soluble dietary fiber promotes the proliferation of probiotics, and when blended with Pu'er tea, it can form a "double fermentation" system. It is recommended to eat it with malt sugar to enhance the repair of the intestinal mucosa.
From the courtyard to the tea table, the transformation of gardenias carries the magic of time. Mastering the combination of traditional wisdom and modern science can not only preserve the fragrance of summer but also build a natural protective barrier for the body. It is recommended to consume the dried flowers stored in a sealed jar within half a year, and regular sunning can maintain the active ingredients.