Earl Grey

Here we will explore the facts, figures, history and scientific research into this remarkable beverage.

Once you’ve learnt more about it, you can try it right here with The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company. The good news is that you don’t have to be a Lord, Lady, Count or even an Earl to enjoy this blend.

Indeed, if you’ve got a passion for it, rest assured knowing it’s for everyone. Let’s now dive deep into the world of Earl Grey benefits.

What is Earl Grey?

A product of two different ingredients: Loose Black Tea and Bergamot oil. Black Tea comes from the Camellia sinensis (Tea) plant, which is the same as Green, White and Oolong.

The difference between each type of so-called “real” Tea happens at the factory whereby Black Tea leaves undergo the most oxidation. This results in an infusion boasting distinct malty notes with smokey or fruity undertones.

We’ll look into the botanical features of bergamot in a moment. Right now, however, it’s worth noting that, despite Earl Grey Loose Tea traditionally being a Black Tea, there are other varieties available.

This includes Earl Grey Green Tea and even Rooibos Earl Grey Tea. Each one has something unique, indeed extraordinary, to offer. Yet the Black Tea variety remains the best known and most popular.

What is Bergamot?

Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) is a citrus fruit believed to be a natural hybrid of lemons and Seville oranges. It grows in the Mediterranean, Africa and Southeast Asia, although 80% of production occurs in the Italian province of Calabria.

It has a reputation for being somewhat bitter when eaten without additions. However, its taste blends perfectly with Black Tea leaves to make Earl Grey.

The origins of the name “bergamot”, meanwhile, has two theories associated with it. One is that it comes from the Italian town of Bergamo, where commercial production first began.

The second theory is that it derives from the Turkish words “beg-armundi,” which means “the prince’s pear”. This could refer to how the French King Louis XIV used bergamot as a perfume. Regardless, the fruit tastes great in Earl Grey.

History of Earl Grey

No one can agree on how this beverage first came into existence. However, some historians believe the combination of bergamot oil with Black Tea first took place to preserve the leaves during difficult journeys overseas.

Lengthy periods travelling could result in mouldy, tar-like tastes, which could be why traders added bergamot – to maintain its freshness.

But why and how, exactly, did it become associated with the 19th century Earl and eventual British Prime Minister of the same name?

Legend has it that Charles Grey, 2nd Earl Grey (1764-1845), had made a diplomatic trip to China sometime during his political career. While there, either he or one of his men saved a young boy from drowning in a nearby river.

The father of the boy, overcome with gratitude, gifted him with Black Tea scented with bergamot oil. This eventually led to it taking on the Earl’s name – or so the story goes.

Indeed, though a fantastic tale, there are no records to suggest that Lord Grey ever visited China in his entire life. The story, as a result, remains unfounded. So what, then, is the truth?

All we know is that the first historical reference to this Tea was during the 1850s, some years after Lord Grey’s death. And the first advertisement for it, which was published by Charlton & Co, wasn’t until the 1880s.

We’ll probably never uncover the reason behind the name “Earl Grey Loose Tea” – but that doesn’t change the fact it has a close association with English upper-class gentry and of course Afternoon Tea.

Does Earl Grey have Caffeine

It depends on the specific type you choose. Earl Grey Caffeine is, without a doubt, existent if you have a Black Tea variety.This is also the case with Earl Grey Green Tea and even, in trace amounts, Decaf Earl Grey blend.

If, however, you opt for a herbal infusion such as our Rooibos Earl Grey or on with Lemon Peel, there is none.

But is Caffeine good or bad for you? There is no denying that it provides an extra energy boost first thing in the morning – that much is certain. At the same time, though, and as mentioned above, it comes with side effects.

Ultimately, the decision to pick a caffeinated or caffeine-free Earl Grey is a personal choice. Whatever you choose, The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company has you covered.

Earl Grey Calories and Properties

When it comes to Earl Grey calories, there is little to worry about. This beverage tends to have no more than two calories per 8-oz serving, thus making it an excellent choice for those looking to cut down.

We’ll talk more about how Earl Grey leaves can help you to lose weight later in this blog. Right now, though, let’s explore its properties.

Iron	Potassium	Magnesium
Vitamin B-2	Vitamin B-5	Vitamin B-9
Limonene	Linalyl Acetate	Linalool
Pineene	Bergaptene	Terpineol
Sodium	Magnesium	Zinc
Nerol	Geraniol	Myrcene

It’s worth noting, however, that some of the above constituents only exist in trace amounts in Earl Grey Tea. This changes a couple of things.First off, although the most beneficial compounds found in it come from the Black Tea leaves, some of those properties make up less than 1% of its overall content.

Then there is the fact that bergamot’s compounds largely depend on whether the rind itself has been added.

Nevertheless, when combined, Earl Grey properties can do much to support your health and wellbeing. If you’re interested in learning more, if you want to know how it can improve your life in small yet significant ways, please keep reading.

Below, we have compiled the latest evidence showcasing the very best of Earl Grey benefits.

Earl Grey Benefits

Earl Grey benefits the mind, body and soul. When it comes to the mind, in particular, it enhances cognitive function. When it comes to the body, it promotes weight loss.

Then, of course, when it comes to the soul, it’s simply the case that it tastes great. But what is the key to its success? Why are health-conscious individuals flocking to it and infusions like it?

The primary answer lies in its Earl Grey properties, particularly those from Black Tea. This is because they can combat free radicals in the body, the product of natural, though often harmful, human oxidation.

By slowing down oxidative stress through its work in fighting free radicals, Earl Grey reduces the risk of developing numerous chronic conditions.

But that’s not all. Studies suggest that Earl Grey benefits include healthier teeth, improved skin health and a boosted immune system. There is also evidence indicating it can relieve stress while lowering cholesterol and aiding digestion.

Just remember, though, that the following research showcased below is still in its preliminary stages. We are here to provide the information available – not to endorse.

Earl Grey for Weight Loss

Each type of Tea from the Camellia Sinensis plant, including Black, Green, White and Oolong Tea, has the potential to promote weight loss. Adding Earl Grey Tea ingredients to these varieties, regardless of which one, is no exception.

This is because it boosts the metabolism of fat cells. But what, exactly, does this mean? And what does it do to help you fit into your favourite pair of jeans?

Metabolism essentially converts the fuel in your food into energy, which is then used to power nearly everything you do. As a result, by boosting this process, itcould enable the body to burn fat quicker and more efficiently.

This might ultimately lead to periods of exercise producing better, indeed more noticeable, results. Still, it won’t do all of the work for you, so keep up those jogs.

Earl Grey for Improved Heart Health

We’ve already established that the antioxidants in Earl Grey can combat free radicals in the body, leading to a reduced risk of developing several chronic conditions. One of those conditions, though, is heart disease, which causes more than a quarter (27%) of all deaths in the UK alone.

Although this beverage isn’t going to be a “fix-all” solution, it can, at least, offer a helping hand.

If you choose an Earl Grey with real bergamot pieces or oil in it, you might even be increasing your chances of it offering support. This is according to a 2014 study published in the Journal of Functional Foods.

It found that “brewing up” was just as effective as statins at controlling cholesterol. The reason for this is its abundance in flavonoids, which fight heart disease-causing proteins in the body.

Earl Grey Benefits Brain Function

Statistics suggest that, in the UK alone, around 750,000 people currently live with either Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Unfortunately, this number could double in the next 40 years as Britain’s population ages.

Could Earl Grey benefits be the answer? Not quite. However, according to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, there is a chance it might reduce risks.

The research project in question took place at the University of Singapore, involving some 2,500 volunteers aged fifty-five or over. Scientists first measured their cognitive function, followed by doing so again two years later.

It concluded that those who drank 2-3 cups of Black Tea a day, including Earl Grey, had a 55% lower chance of developing cognitive decline.

Could Earl Grey Relieve Anxiety?

There is nothing quite like a harmonious cup of Tea after a long, stressful day. But did you know there’s science behind its ability to reduce anxiety levels?

This is because Earl Grey contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which can increase alpha brain activity, ultimately leading to anxiety relief. Indeed, although it has relatively high caffeine levels, a component that energises, it also promotes calmness.

Furthermore, new research has established that chronic stress disrupts sleep and blood sugar levels. This then leads to increased hunger and comfort eating. In time, this becomes a cruel circle whereby one continues to overindulge, thus causing more stress, until it increases type-2 diabetes risks.

You can stop it at the source, however, by choosing Earl Grey benefits. It’s as simple as relaxing with a cuppa!

Fight Coughs and Colds with Earl Grey

L-theanine in Loose Earl Grey can do more than support your mental health. It also, according to a study published by the National Academy of Sciences, USA, bolsters the immune system.

The research found that this chemical compound in all types of Black Tea, including Earl Grey, primes your body for attacking invading bacteria, viruses and fungi.

Another trial discovered that white blood cells in Tea drinkers responded five times faster to germs than those in Coffee drinkers. Then there are its antibacterial properties, which, as the name suggests, combat bacteria.

The polyphenols do much to keep common colds and the flu at bay. And, of course, there’s the fact that ANYONE feels better after brewing up a nice cuppa!

Earl Grey Benefits Skin

Many of us have stared at an expensive tub of skin cream and wondered if there was a better way. It appears as if there could be with Earl Grey benefits.

This is once again because of its antioxidants – this time preventing premature ageing while keeping your skin looking healthy, vibrant and youthful. The facts come from a 2014 Korean study published in the Journal of Toxicological Research.

Scientists researched the anti-wrinkle effects of three different types of Loose Tea – Green, White and Black Tea. Data showed that the treatment using each variety greatly improved skin conditions in mice.

Additionally, Black Tea anti-ageing properties inhibited wrinkle formation. Seeing as you can get “Earl Grey” flavours with all of these tea types, it stands to reason that this infusion can help.

Potential Side Effects of Earl Grey

While Earl Grey benefits have great potential, there remains a risk involved in consuming large quantities of it. This mostly applies to those who’re sensitive to the Caffeine Effects, including people with diagnosed conditions and pregnant women.

There are also health concerns stemming from people experiencing the following side effects:

• Headaches.
• Restlessness and sleeplessness (insomnia).
• Irregular heartbeat.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Increased urination.
• Ringing in ears.
• Tremors.

If you have any of the above symptoms, or suffer from discomfort of any kind after drinking Earl Grey, you should consider seeking medical help. We must again stress that The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company is here to show, not endorse, Earl Grey benefits.

We’re not doctors, after all, and cannot, under any circumstances, offer out any advice.

Earl Grey Pregnancy

The Caffeine in Tea is the primary reason why people have reservations drinking Earl Grey. Most will know already that this chemical compound acts as a stimulant when consumed.

When it comes to pregnant women, in particular, there is a small risk that too much caffeine can result in babies having a low birthweight. Furthermore, it increases the risk of your child having health problems later in life.

So, is it safe for pregnancy? Yes. But in moderation. NHS Choices recommends that those who’re pregnant limit their daily caffeine intake. This is the equivalent of two Coffee cups, four Black Tea cups, five Oolong cups, six Green Tea cups and eight White Tea cups.

What about drinking Earl Grey Ta while breastfeeding? For the most, the same rules apply.

How to Make Earl Grey

We’ve talked about Earl Grey ingredients, its (alleged) origins and answered the question “who was Earl Grey?” We have also explored several Earl Grey Black Tea benefits.

So, now that you know the facts, it’s time to try the infusion itself. After choosing one of our finest quality products, which includes either a Tea Filter or Infuser, just follow these instructions below:

1. Fill the Tea Infuser / Filter.

Add Tea Leaves to one of our Tea Filters or Infusers.

2. Boil Water.

Put the kettle on, all the while making sure the water is fresh. This will ensure better oxygen levels and, ultimately, better taste.

3. Hold Off Before Pouring.

Briefly allow the water to cool to no more than 96°C.

4. Add the Filter or Infuser to your Mug.

Place your Earl Grey Leaves in a PORCELAIN cup. Porcelain has the least influence on the taste. Metal cups, in comparison, create an unwelcome metallic undertone.

5. Time to Pour the Water.

Fill the mug with the hot water.

6. Let it Infuse / Steep.

Allow the beverage to steep for AT LEAST three minutes and NO MORE THAN five minutes. The longer you leave it, the stronger it tastes. Past 5 minutes and it might start getting bitter.

7. Consider Additions.

Why not have an Earl Grey Milk Tea? Alternatively, try honey, lemon or sugar.

8. Now You Can Indulge.

Your cuppa is ready to enjoy at your leisure.

It’s worth noting, too, that we stock Earl Grey Tea bags for those who don’t have the time for anything else. Regardless of which way you go, just remember that we pack almost all of our products fresh to order.

This is our way of guaranteeing not only quality but also consistency. Why not discover the full potential of Earl Grey health benefits today?

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