The Merrion Hotel in Dublin claims it is the first hotel in Ireland to employ a tea master, and to welcome 2016 the hotel is offering a selection of Tchi Drinks to be served in its Drawing Rooms, Cellar Bar and Tethra Spa.
Drawing inspiration from the Chinese philosophy of ch’i, Tchi Drinks aim to promote a steady flow of energy, harmonizing the body and mind, and beating the winter blues.
Merrion Tea Master Laura McGinn trained at the international Ronnefeldt Tea Academy and is introducing three Tchi Drinks that draw from the key properties of berries, roots and plants that have been used in Chinese medicine for centuries. They are created through infusions that preserve the properties and tastes of the ingredients. They include:
Rose and Honey Tea – dried roses, honey, rose water and red dates: Served warm or cold, this tea has a cooling effect on the body, clearing heat and toxins. The tea has an uplifting effect on the nervous system and can relieve insomnia, depression and fatigue.
Date, Longan and Goji Tea – red dates, dried longan and goji tea: Served warm, this tea helps relieve stress and insomnia. It also has anti-inflammatory effects and increases blood circulation, as well as providing strong blood replenishment for people who have undergone blood transfusions.
Jasmine Tea – dried jasmine and loose-leaf jasmine tea: This tea helps encourage weight loss, reduce stress and improve digestion, as well as lowering cholesterol. Jasmine tea is reputed to work to prevent cancer.