Loose leaf tea is the highest quality and better for you says Coreen Green, the owner of Tea Leaf  Specialty Tea and Cafe on Commercial Street in Nanaimo.  Here is my interview with Coreen:

Mid Island News:  How did you get interested in tea?

Coreen Green:  Originally I was thinking of operating a cafe, but then I realized the health benefits of tea, so I thought why not combine the two and create a trendy tea/cafe.  I’m working with the former owner of the Shanghai Tea Emporium, who travels to China five times a year to import teas and he has also introduced me to another high quality line of teas which are unique to Vancouver Island.    Just recently, I have shipped tea to people in California, Saskatchewan and Alberta.

MIN:  What are some of the health benefits of tea?

CG:  One of the major benefits with tea is that it has 1/3 less caffeine than coffee and contains nutrients that can help you stay calm, fight colds and generally bolster your immune system.  I also carry a selection of medicinal teas.

MIN:  Is there a difference between loose leaf tea and tea sachets?

CG:  There is a huge difference.  Here, when you come into the store, you can smell the flavours of each type of tea and that is exactly how the tea will taste once it’s brewed.  When I make a chai latte for example, I brew the tea first.  Everything that goes into that latte is natural; there are no syrups or artificial ingredients.  It takes a bit longer to make, but it’s worth it.

MIN:  Do you offer baked goods and sandwiches?

CG:  Right now I’m working with a baker to create a large variety of scones, everything from bacon to chocolate that will be a complement to our teas and coffees.

Coreen also carries books on meditation and inspirational plaques and notes.  So if you’re feeling harried and want to calm down and let your mind and body relax, visit the Tea Leaf Specialty Tea and Cafe in downtown Nanaimo at 13b Commercial Street (across from the Vancouver Island Conference Centre) or visit online at www.tealeafteas.com.