What Is Huitlacoche? What Does Corn Smut Taste Like?
Mexico has a vast range of positively scrumptious food. Authentic Mexican food is next level. A bean & cheese burrito or store-bought taco doesn't quite articulate the multitude of flavor & variety Mexican food has. And then we also have drinks, which is a subject of its own. Don't get me started on horchatas.
Okay, you're searching the internet trying to figure out what the heck is huitlacoche? How do you even use it? Is it edible or do you have to throw it away? Is it safe to eat huitlacoche (corn smut edible)? I've done all the research for you so you can get all the answers right here. Keep scrolling interesting keep reading.
What is huitlacoche in English?
In the United States, American farmers often call it corn smut fungus.
What is huitlacoche (corn smut / ustilago maydis)?
Corn smut is a plant fungus caused by Ustilago maydis. Huitlacoche is basically a corn mushroom or corn truffle that grows on the infected corn kernels on corn plants. You might know it as corn smut or common smut. While most farmers in the United States would consider this fungal plant disease an infection worthy of eradication, fungus corn smut is considered a delicacy in Mexico, more commonly referred to as "huitlacoche." You might even hear it referred to as cuitlacoche, corn truffles, Mexican truffle, Mexican huitlacoche, maizteca mushrooms, corn mushrooms, & bunch of other terms.
Is Huitlacoche Safe to Eat?
If you're left wondering: well, is this fungus safe to eat? Yes! The corn fungus caused by ustilago maydis can be found on ears of corn is considered a maize mushroom or type of edible mushroom. Yes, it's safe to eat. It's actually a Mexican delicacy. Taste a piece of Mexico. Not only is it safe to eat but there are plenty of ways that you can eat it & make it - from huitlacoche quesadillas to soups to tamales. You can eat it in a lot of savory and smoky dishes with some salt and pepper.
Can You Eat It While Pregnant?
I'm not a doctor so I am no clue about that; make sure to check with your own doctor based on your own health conditions. Definitely worth asking your doctor before ordering some at a restaurant. Just to be on the safe side!
How Is Huitlacoche Pronounced?
That's a great question because it's somewhat difficult when you first look at it. You can pronounce it weet-la-ko-che (the 'che' should sound like 'che' in 'checkers.') If you want to be super authentic then you can pronounce it more like "hwee-tla-ko-che."
Huitlacoche Taste - What does fresh huitlacoche smell like, taste like, look like?
Don't forget this corn growth is a culinary delicacy. The plant fungus grows on corn kernels. The infected kernels change color & shape. The name corn smut fungus doesn't sound so appetizing, so I love referring to its name in its mother tongue. I first tried huitlacoche back in 2016; I even mentioned it in my July A - Z monthly recap & my July Favorites. Mexican cuisine is delicious; I always eat something new & foods can vary by state & by cities. My boyfriend's mom made a fresh batch. Fred's parents are from Central Mexico. I've been able to taste some delicious Mexican food homemade by Fred's mom, including some regional specialties from their hometown.
I ate it by itself, as a side. It's earthy but not as stinky as mushrooms. It tastes like corn, even though it is a plant fungus. The spongy texture is a bit mushy, just like cooked corn. There might be an occasional fiber from the corn. It looks dark, like a blackish, brownish color, due to the corn fungus kind of the same color as a crimini mushroom or Portobello mushroom. If you enjoy mushrooms or kind of earthier foods with that type of texture, you will probably agree with the taste of huitlacoche corn smuts. You can find huitlaoche recipes online to cook it yourself.
How do you eat huitlacoche?
You can use this smut delicacy many ways. There are plenty of recipes. It's a versatile ingredient. You don't eat it off the cob as you would regular ears of corn. I loooove quesadillas de huitlacoche. The ingredients you'll are need organic corn tortilla, cheese, huitlacoche, that's it. You can use flour or corn tortillas. Delicious. If quesadillas aren't your thing, you can use huitlacoche Mexican truffle in your soup or burrito. You can make a huitlacoche taco or sopes. Basically, you can add huitlacoche as a filler or side, the same way you'd integrate something like black beans or mushrooms. Just check some recipes online. You can eat it with a tortilla or as a side dish on its own. You can add it to various types of dishes such as soups, tamales, huitlacoche tacos, whatever your heart desires.You can add onion, garlic, corn, cheese, tomatoes, tortilla, epazote leaves. These are common ingredients that go together with huitlacoche. Huitlacoche dishes to add some delicious earthy flavor and texture to the meal.
What's the nutritional value of huitlacoche?
High Protein
As cuitlacoche grows, fresh huitlacoche is higher in protein than most maize or regular corn, & could be considered as an alternative protein source for vegetarians (or anyone), according to a research study published in Food Science and Technology (Sociedade Brasileira de Ciência e Tecnologia de Alimentos).
High in Minerals like Magnesium & Phosphorus
The study also shows that huitlacoche is high in minerals magnesium & phosphorus. Higher magnesium intake may reduce the risk of stroke, diabetes, & osteoporosis (National Institutes of Health). So load up on that huitlacoche!
High in Fatty Acids like Oleic Acid & Linoleic Acid
Huitlacoche is high in fatty acids like oleic acid & linoleic acid. Due to the plant fungus & how it alters the corn, huitlacoche is loaded with nutrients corn doesn't normally have, such as lysine, an essential amino acid.
High Carbohydrate
At the end of the day, huitlacoche is still corn, so it has a high carbohydrate content. The great news is that huitlacoche has a high cellulose content (a type of carbohydrate), which can be beneficial for digestion. Sounds like a win to me!
Low Fat
Huitlacoche is low in fat, which makes it a great choice for anyone looking for lower calorie & lower fat foods.
As cuitlacoche grows, fresh huitlacoche is higher in protein than most maize or regular corn, & could be considered as an alternative protein source for vegetarians (or anyone), according to a research study published in Food Science and Technology (Sociedade Brasileira de Ciência e Tecnologia de Alimentos).
High in Minerals like Magnesium & Phosphorus
The study also shows that huitlacoche is high in minerals magnesium & phosphorus. Higher magnesium intake may reduce the risk of stroke, diabetes, & osteoporosis (National Institutes of Health). So load up on that huitlacoche!
High in Fatty Acids like Oleic Acid & Linoleic Acid
Huitlacoche is high in fatty acids like oleic acid & linoleic acid. Due to the plant fungus & how it alters the corn, huitlacoche is loaded with nutrients corn doesn't normally have, such as lysine, an essential amino acid.
High Carbohydrate
At the end of the day, huitlacoche is still corn, so it has a high carbohydrate content. The great news is that huitlacoche has a high cellulose content (a type of carbohydrate), which can be beneficial for digestion. Sounds like a win to me!
Low Fat
Huitlacoche is low in fat, which makes it a great choice for anyone looking for lower calorie & lower fat foods.
Where Can I Find it
You're likely to find it at a Mexican restaurant but there are some canned huitlacoche varieties as well. I haven't tried canned, only fresh huitlacoche, so I can't say from experience. Fresh is usually always best. You can even had to a Mexican market to see if they have it or know someone who grows it. Know any farmers? Ask them. Farmers might be a good place to start.
So what do you think? Did I convince you to try it? Technically it's a corn fungus but that shouldn't stop you from trying something you could potentially really enjoy. I've had plenty of times & each of the restaurants makes it their own unique way. The seasoning might be different or the flavors or the texture but it's the same main ingredient no matter what. If you're traveling to Mexico, you might find it does frequently in a quesadilla, Sometimes a quesadilla trio with floor de Calabasas (squash blossoms) huitlacoche, & then whatever other option they have.
Would you eat huitlacoche or quesadillas de huitlacoche? It's essentially a corn truffle. Yes, it's a corn fungus but it sure is tasty! What is your favorite food item from Mexico? Have you? How do you like to eat it? Leave a comment below if you have any questions! :]
Hopefully, this answers all your questions. Just wait until you try huitlacoche quesadillas. If it doesn't, leave the question below & I'll see what I can do. Happy eating. I hope you order it the next time you see it on the menu now that you know exactly what it is, where it comes from, & potentially what it'll taste like.
Things to do in Mexico
Things to Do in Roma Mexico City Neighborhood, read here.
The Xcaret Underground River Experience: Things to Do in Xcaret.
Fresh Eucalyptus Leaves: How Long Does Eucalyptus Last in the Shower? Where to Buy?
This fragrant green plant is the perfect addition to your next shower, as a DIY aromatherapy. What is eucalyptus in the shower good for? Any healing or health properties or is that hoo-ah? What are the benefits or therapeutic properties of eucalyptus? What does eucalyptus smell like? How to keep eucalyptus fresh? It can be used in a number of ways. Get ready to learn more about eucalyptus oil, leaves, & more.
Eucalyptus in Shower
You may have read some information about the addition of eucalyptus in shower online and now you're in search of tips. The trees are native to Australia, but did you know there are actually many species of eucalyptus plants? You might see the large tree in a public garden or park. If you head to your local farmers market & ask for some, the leaves might look different. The long leaves are classified as eucalyptus globulus but you might often see the short stubbier leaved version. You can get a lot of use out of one bunch of leaves. Whether you're super crafty or just want to have a refreshing shower, this post will cover everything. Breathe easy. Grab a cuppa tea & start scrolling!
Hang Eucalyptus in Your Shower
Using eucalyptus branches can become a part of your daily routine. Hang one bunch of fresh eucalyptus leaves in your shower to freshen up your bathroom. Get one hair tie, rubber band, twine. Simply tie it with a string or rubber band near your showerhead. The eucalyptus leaf has such a strong, cleansing smell. The hot water hits the leaves to create a eucalyptus steam, kind of like an all-natural shower diffuser based from eucalyptus plant oil. Eucalyptus in the shower can be useful for some anti-stress, energizing, decongesting properties. If you have nasal congestion, this might be a good plant to try.
When hanging eucalyptus in your shower up, the oils from the leaves give off an incredible scent that may potentially last for weeks & up to two months - so you can get a lot of use out of one branch. Wondering how long does fresh eucalyptus plan last in the shower? Scroll down for the answer.
Where to Buy Eucalyptus Plant
What to have a spa like experience of your own? Try to find it at your local farmers' market; that's where the scent is the best! If you can't find it there, you can also buy eucalyptus leaves on Amazon or find an oil. Get the leaves from a range of online shops. The price may vary.
You can get Dried Real Eucalyptus Branches 12 Stems, Natural Eucalyptus Plant Leaves for Arrangement Wedding Home Decor on Amazon.
There's also: Freshly Handpicked & 100% Natural leaves that you can buy on Amazon. | Relieves Stress & Anxiety - Perfect for Self Care.
It's not the same as fresh eucalyptus leaf but using it could be worth a try! Can't find leaves - try an oil instead. Hanging eucalyptus in your shower feels like a stress-free spa like experience with a sense of style and calm. If you can't find eucalyptus plants near you, you can always opt for eucalyptus-based products in the meantime. The price may vary depending on where you buy it.
You could get eucalyptus scented candles instead. There are a lot of eucalyptus scented candles available online on Amazon.
Where Can I Buy Eucalyptus Leaves?
Eucalyptus trees are native to Australia, but you can find the leaves online or maybe in your local store. I'm based in Southern California, so I find my favorite eucalyptus bouquet at my local farmers market, flower shop, or grocery store. I've seen eucalyptus fresh leaves at Trader Joe's, Vons, & some grocery stores by the flower section. Get some at the grocery store or you might be able to find it at craft stores too! Buy fresh dried eucalyptus leaves on Amazon.
How to keep eucalyptus fresh?
Care Tip: Shake off the leaves after every shower to avoid gnats or rotting. Preserve eucalyptus stems with this tip. The green fresh eucalyptus bunch leaves can be flat & hold a lot of water. Get the most from your leaves. Shake it, shake it, shake it like a Polaroid picture! Hey yaaa! After you turn off the water, shake as much water from the hanging leaves as you can. Get as much off as possible. Then you're ready to go. The eucalyptus leaf keeps the water if you don't shake it off & it takes hours to dry (if it dries at all).How Long Do Eucalyptus Leaves Last in the Shower?
How long does fresh eucalyptus last in the shower? Well, how frequently do you use it? Is your family of 6 using one shower 8 times per day? If that's the case, it's better to count the number of uses the leaves got, rather than the days. It ultimately depends how frequently you shower & how you care for the bundle of leaves. If the eucalyptus shower gets used multiple times a day, it may last two to three weeks or so. We had our hanging eucalyptus branches for two to three weeks, went on a 3-week trip, & came back to the most fragrant, fantastic scent of eucalyptus wafting through the bathroom. We used it for one more week before heading to the farmers market for a new bundle. If you use your shower a lot, the leaves won't last as long in terms of days. Buy fresh dried eucalyptus leaves on Amazon.Can I Use Eucalyptus Oil Instead?
Of course! You may use whatever you have on hand. I dabbled with oil eucalyptus for several years. It all started in 2014 with my very first bottle of eucalyptus essential oil. I prefer the fresh leaves because the scent is much more potent than the essential oils. But the eucalyptus essential oil is convenient & travel-friendly since you may take a small bottle with you wherever you go. Click here for my favorite eucalyptus essential oil (*affiliate link). Eucalyptus oil still has benefits too! You can also buy real eucalyptus leaves on Amazon. The oil of eucalyptus is a good alternative if you can't find the fresh version. It's important to be careful when applying eucalyptus oil to your skin.What Does Eucalyptus Leaves Smell Like?
What does eucalyptus smell like? Hmm good question. The eucalyptus smell is potent. has a potent, in-your-face smell kind of like spearmint or pine. The oil itself might smell different than the leaf but overall it's natural, earthy, & menthol-y. It might be considered similar to camphor or cedar. Think something along those lines as far as the smell. However, the fresh version will be milder than the oil version.
You might ask yourself, so...what're the eucalyptus bunch benefits? What are the common uses? Can it be used on a daily basis? It smells fantastic. It's a natural room perfume aromatherapy. But in addition to that, it may help clear your sinuses, nasal congestion or a stuffy nose. Just inhale the eucalyptus steam as you shower. You may want to add it to your routine. It might be worth it rather than have to get some similar product from the pharmacy.
So yes, while fresh eucalyptus oil from the leaves and steam is the best option you may use essential oils, hanging dried leaves, or whatever you want to start with. Some people have different preferences.
What Can You Do With Fresh Eucalyptus Leaves?
You might ask yourself, so...what're the eucalyptus bunch benefits? What are the common uses? Can it be used on a daily basis? It smells fantastic. It's a natural room perfume aromatherapy. But in addition to that, it may help clear your sinuses, nasal congestion or a stuffy nose. Just inhale the eucalyptus steam as you shower. You may want to add it to your routine. It might be worth it rather than have to get some similar product from the pharmacy.
So yes, while fresh eucalyptus oil from the leaves and steam is the best option you may use essential oils, hanging dried leaves, or whatever you want to start with. Some people have different preferences.
It's Pretty
Last but certainly not least, hanging eucalyptus bundles to your shower head is aesthetically pleasing. It looks beautiful hanging in the shower. The green leaves ad a touch of natural ambiance and aromatherapy to your bathroom. If you want to add a touch of freshness into your bathroom, this is a relatively simple way to do so. You could opt for preserved eucalyptus instead. If you want the leaves to last even longer, get creative. Add eucalyptus stems to a jar or vase in your bathroom rather than hanging it up in the shower. It won't really have I scent but it's worth a shot for the vibes. If you're crafty, you can make projects with the leftover dried leaves. What would you make? If you found this post, it's a sign.
How have you seen people use eucalyptus leaves in the shower or to your shower head? Is it something you'd be willing to try out or are you just dabbling for now? I love the way it looks hanging in my bathroom & the way it smells & the way it makes me feel rejuvenated. It feels like this topic is so popular right now. Every influencer has some leaves in their shower or somebody talked about it in a magazine. This is something I've been doing for years now & it's part of my daily routine. My friends know I do it. I've converted friends into it trying out. So finally I decided to write about it! I hope this brought you value.
Do you use eucalyptus leaves or oils eucalyptus in the shower? If you prefer the oil, how do you like to use it? Leave a comment! Tell me about your experience. Feel free to ask a question! What are some of the eucalyptus benefits you've found? Any other ways it can be used? Add a luxurious touch of natural aromatherapy to your next shower.
About Me
Hi, thanks for making it all the way down here. I'm Carmen, a writer & social media manager based in San Diego, California. I like to travel, eat tostadas, & drink hot Earl Grey tea whenever possible. Learn more about my Press + Media page to see the brands & companies I've worked with in the past. I've created content for a range of travel, lifestyle, & food brands.
* Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. Learn more about my disclosure. :]
Pin this image on Pinterest. Your guide to hanging eucalyptus stems in the shower. |
Blog & Instagram Photo Prop Ideas from Amazon to Elevate Your Flat Lay Photography
Buy blog & Instagram photo props & flat lay styling pieces from Amazon! It's convenient, affordable, & you never have to leave your house! Shop for Instagram photo prop in your three-day-old hair, giant sweatshirt, & no pants. Ahhh, that's the dream. Want to be a digital influencer, Elevate your flat lay photography with these Instagram-worthy Amazon props that are my top recommendations! Let's go shopping. Jazz up your Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and blog images with some simple items that you can use over and over again.
This elevates every blog post & photo. A faux sheepskin rug is always a good idea. It also helps to frame the shot and get a feel of the set up. It's chic, simple, & acts as a palette cleanser. Sometimes I put it out when guests come over because I'm cool like that. It helps that it's incredibly soft. Choose from multiple sizes to fit your blogging/room/dimensional needs. If you're wondering how to be a blogger & digital influencer, this prop is a good place to start.
*Disclaimer: this post includes affiliate links.
Faux Sheepskin Rug
This elevates every blog post & photo. A faux sheepskin rug is always a good idea. It also helps to frame the shot and get a feel of the set up. It's chic, simple, & acts as a palette cleanser. Sometimes I put it out when guests come over because I'm cool like that. It helps that it's incredibly soft. Choose from multiple sizes to fit your blogging/room/dimensional needs. If you're wondering how to be a blogger & digital influencer, this prop is a good place to start.
Social Media Photo Frame
You can buy Insta-Themed social media party photobooth frame with emojis & personalized speech bubble props. You can buy it on Amazon or try to make one that is similar. You can reuse this for birthday celebrations, wedding, graduation, holidays, events etc. The price isn't too bad and it's a great decoration. Ideal to promote your Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to add a little fun kick.
Get A Custom Sign Made
You can even don't fancy and get the custom sign me on Etsy as a custom order. You can have a sign made for birthdays, weddings, events, baby shower, etc. This is perfect for realtors, teachers, doctors, therapists, and other roles. It's a unique idea and perfect for marketing yourself, the event, or your job. You can add your name, website, whatever you want. It adds to the ambiance and decorations.
Faux Marble Contact Paper
Faux marble contact paper is the best!!! This beautiful wine, marble, & succulent set up is A LIE!!! I taped this white & grey glossy faux marble contact paper onto a poster board & it works wonders. Spill something on it? Simply wipe it away with a sponge. Gets too dingy? Replace the used contact paper. I've had the same sheet for over a year & haven't needed to swap it out. The roll is worth it! This is one of my favorite flat lay photography props as a digital influencer.
Gel Pens
Flashback to the 90s, right? Okay, hear me out here. This gel pen pack comes with 48 pens to suit any rainbow your heart desires. Pick & choose colors to go with your theme or Instagram feed. Style the pens with stationery for any blog-related photography. Personally, I write with gel pens too since the colors keep me organized. You can even get specific with it. There are pastel gel pen packs and other cool color sets. Order whichever you like best.
Wall Tapestry
These plant wall tapestries are enormous & beautiful. I pinned mine up & I use them all the time. Stand in front of them for a selfie. Hold your coffee up for a cool background. The options are as limitless as your imagination. Plus, I get compliments on them all the time. Get a mountain tapestry or maybe something botanical.
Which Instagram photo prop would you use? What are your goals as a digital influencer? Tell me. Leave a comment. :]
Bunkers del Carmel Turo de la Rovira Barcelona: Things to Do + The History
What if I told you there's a magical 360° view of Barcelona that's completely free?
Free dollars. Free euros. Free o'clock.
Free things to do in Barcelona? Count me in! Bring comfy shoes and take a hike through what's left Bunkers del Carmel underground military bunkers and be prepared to discover panoramic views of Barcelona city skyline. Del Carmel Barcelona is a great place to get lost within the city. I would say it's a hidden gem but plenty of people know about it.
Free things to do in Barcelona? Count me in! Bring comfy shoes and take a hike through what's left Bunkers del Carmel underground military bunkers and be prepared to discover panoramic views of Barcelona city skyline. Del Carmel Barcelona is a great place to get lost within the city. I would say it's a hidden gem but plenty of people know about it.
Hike Bunkers of Carmel on Turo de la Rovira for a panoramic view of Barcelona.
Imagine a panoramic look at Barcelona from 262 meters/859 feet above sea level. Picture yourself looking out at the Mediterranean Sea, La Sagrada Familia, & the entire city of Barcelona from up high. Find this unforgettable location at Bunkers del Carmel/Bunkers el Carmel on the hill known as Turo de la Rovira, the site for the defense of Barcelona during the Spanish Civil War. The best way to get is here to take public transportation then walk the rest of the way.Related items: National Geographic Map of Barcelona (Available on Amazon)
Related reading: Welcome to the Cologne Cathedral in Germany
The History of Turó de la Rovira
Turó de la Rovira is a Museu d'Historia de Barcelona (MUHBA) heritage space, which officially opened in 2011 after undergoing restoration. It once contained the anti-aircraft battery used to defend Barcelona from air attacks. Pretty historic, eh? The Rick Steves Barcelona book is a great resource on things to do while you're in the city. Check out Rick Steves Barcelona here.The View of Barcelona, Spain from Bunkers Del Carmel / Bunkers el Carmel
Perhaps you're a sucker for savoring spectacular sights. Me too, my friend, me too. If you want to take a selfie, get the best Instagram travel influencer shot, or snap a memorable photo, del Carmel Bunkers is the spot to check out. The view of the city is incomparable from the top of Bunkers del Carmel. On one side you can see the Mediterranean Sea, La Sagrada Familia, & all the Barcelona hot spots. On the other side, stare out at the Barcelona homes.
Related reading: How to Save $$$ on Flights Using Google Flights
Things To to Do at Bunkers Del Carmel on Turo de la Rovira
Remember that it's free of charge to explore. Who doesn't love free things to do in Barcelona, Spain? Everything adds up: the museums, the cathedrals, the parks. Why not add something free to the list? So you made it up Turo de la Rovira, now what?Have a picnic on top of the world.
Take snacks & drink so you can have yourself a merry little picnic. It goes without saying to pick up after yourself & dispose of any trash. Have you visited Bunkers del Carmel? Have a question? Want to share your experience? Leave a comment below! Popular things to do in Barcelona include Park Güell, La Sagrada Familia, and much more. You can always use tools like TripAdvisor or read articles on New York Times to plan your trip. What you do next is up to you! Are you feeling like some tapas? Stroll Plaça de la Catedral or Las Ramblas. There's so much to do in Barcelona as well as the surrounding area. To learn more about Barcelona, Spain, check out some of the books available on Amazon. Where to now?
Where to Stay in Barcelona
What are some accommodations options in Barcelona? Here's a map with some affordable options. Traveling somewhere soon? Make sure to check if there are any visa requirements!Drinking Fresh Mint Tea Benefits + Is Fresh Mint Tea Good for You?
In this post I'll answer your top questions such as: Should I Use Peppermint or Spearmint? How Do I Make the Fresh Mint Tea? What's the Difference Between Peppermint & Spearmint? How Does Mint Tea Help Relieve Symptoms?
My stomach gurgles. The thought of eating food causes my stomach to turn. Every bite I take feels dry, deliberate, forced. Everything I eat leaves my body just as quickly as it entered. Gross, but real life. My body turns against itself for a week, which makes me take a moment to appreciate my body & the healthy moments. My mint tea ritual started one evening after I read that mint tea might help an upset stomach. So I bought a pot of fresh green spearmint. I love an herbal tea.
"I'll try anything." I thought. Bland foods like applesauce & toast weren't helping. It's day 3 & I can barely eat. My insides slosh around. I tried fresh spearmint tea that day. Sip sip sip.
"What is this feeling? This feeling of...comfort." My gut stopped doing flips long enough for me to smile as I watched The Office. My stomach stopping singing long enough for me to take a couple bites of my soup from lunch that I hadn't eaten. Plus, it's caffeine-free. Peppermint tea may help too.
"I'll try anything." I thought. Bland foods like applesauce & toast weren't helping. It's day 3 & I can barely eat. My insides slosh around. I tried fresh spearmint tea that day. Sip sip sip.
"What is this feeling? This feeling of...comfort." My gut stopped doing flips long enough for me to smile as I watched The Office. My stomach stopping singing long enough for me to take a couple bites of my soup from lunch that I hadn't eaten. Plus, it's caffeine-free. Peppermint tea may help too.
HALLELUJAH! Relief.
I sip fresh mint tea anytime my stomach starts feeling a little funky. It truly helps when I have peppermint tea. Keep reading to learn about the potential health benefits of peppermint and spearmint. Drinking peppermint is soothing. Mint tea can even help with bad breath. It's been used for centuries around the globe. Do you like peppermint tea or herbal tea? The fresh mint tea benefits felt soothing right away. Even when I travel, I like to have mint tea on hand.
I sip fresh mint tea anytime my stomach starts feeling a little funky. It truly helps when I have peppermint tea. Keep reading to learn about the potential health benefits of peppermint and spearmint. Drinking peppermint is soothing. Mint tea can even help with bad breath. It's been used for centuries around the globe. Do you like peppermint tea or herbal tea? The fresh mint tea benefits felt soothing right away. Even when I travel, I like to have mint tea on hand.
Should I Use Peppermint or Spearmint?
Mint is that flavoring in toothpaste or breath mints or candies. Spearmint & peppermint very closely related, so they have similar properties in relation to their appearance, flavor, use, & cultivation. It all boils down to personal preference; you may use both peppermint or spearmint. Oh yeah!
What's the Difference Between Peppermint & Spearmint?
Peppermint has a higher menthol content, making it more minty refreshing taste & potent in flavor: think peppermint bark. Peppermint is often used medicinally to soothe aches or relax muscles. Peppermint packs a punch. It's considered spicier than spearmint, giving it the "pepper" name in peppermint. Good for drinking too.Spearmint is lighter, more delicate, & less likely to overpower other spices. Spearmint can be found in sauces or your next mojito. Spearmint goes well with feta, tomatoes, olives. You might find spearmint in Greek food like tzatziki or maybe Vietnamese Banh Mi. Spearmint is used in foods & for drinking.
How Do I Make the Fresh Mint Tea?
1. Boil water & pour into a mug.2. Pluck a couple stems & fresh leaves. Add it to the hot water.
3. Let the stems & peppermint leaves steep in hot water for 5 minutes.
4. Muddle or mash the mint or spearmint leaves & stem to release more flavor & the natural oils in the water. Hooray for herbal tea medicinal properties.
You could always add mint leaves to water for infused cold water! Feels great on a hot day. You can blend peppermint and spearmint together. You can't go wrong with a hot cup of tea.
Allergies - Mint contains an antioxidant & anti-inflammatory agent called rosmarinic acid, which means drinking peppermint tea may help with allergies, boosting your immune system.
Do I Only Use Leaves? Do I Throw Away the Stems?
Use both! Both the leaves & the stems contain flavor. It comes down to which you like better. If you toss the stems, you're not getting the maximum benefits from the mint. Pluck off parts of the leave & stem simultaneously. It's better to use the whole thing if you can.Fresh Peppermint Tea Benefits: How Does Mint Tea Help? What is the Benefit?
Is mint tea good for you? Mint has a potent but pleasant smell. Botanicals like ginger, peppermint, spearmint, & fennel are known for their natural herb remedies. Are there potential health benefits? But mint is pretty cool herb because of its versatility. Oh yes, there are mint tea benefits! Here are a few things peppermint & spearmint can help with:Allergies - Mint contains an antioxidant & anti-inflammatory agent called rosmarinic acid, which means drinking peppermint tea may help with allergies, boosting your immune system.
Bad Breath - Have bad breath? Well, drinking peppermint tea may help with that! It'll leave you with a fresh minty taste, especially if you chew the leaves. Thanks to the menthol.
Caffeine-Free - Sip this any time of day without jitters or crashing. No caffeine! I enjoy drinking peppermint before bed for calming effects.
Common Cold / Sore Throat - The menthol can have a soothing, cooling effect on your throat.
Decongestant - Mint contains menthol which is a natural aromatic decongestant to may help break up phlegm & mucus.
Indigestion / Gas - Need some help with your IBS symptoms? Studies show that mint improves symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome like abdominal pain or menstrual pain or menstrual cramping. This may help with digestion.
Caffeine-Free - Sip this any time of day without jitters or crashing. No caffeine! I enjoy drinking peppermint before bed for calming effects.
Common Cold / Sore Throat - The menthol can have a soothing, cooling effect on your throat.
Indigestion / Gas - Need some help with your IBS symptoms? Studies show that mint improves symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome like abdominal pain or menstrual pain or menstrual cramping. This may help with digestion.
Can I use a peppermint or spearmint tea bags instead?
Yes, totally. Use whatever you have on hand. Relief is relief. You'll get more of the natural nutrients with the fresh version, but organic peppermint tea or spearmint packaged/bagged tea might do the trick. You can also buy organic dried peppermint tea leaves or dried spearmint leaves in bulk to use for tea. Peppermint tea is very popular! The benefits of peppermint tea make it even tastier! I love drinking peppermint before bed. Choose whichever you like better.Where can I buy it?
Ready to enjoy the mint tea benefits or the health benefits of peppermint tea? You can buy fresh peppermint or spearmint at your local farmers market, grocery stores, or herbs section. It can be fresh potted mint or loose leaf tea, use what works. You might be able to find edible essential oils too. If you can't find it, here are some online options:- Peppermint tea bags
- Spearmint tea bags
- Organic peppermint leaves
- Dried organic loose leaf spearmint
Find an edible peppermint oil or, which is not the same as peppermint essential oil. You can mix the mint teas as well. You can even add your fresh leaves to colas, fruit juice, soft drinks
Can I drink this if I feel totally fine?
Of course. Peppermint tea or mint tea genuinely tastes amazing (if you're a mint fan). By all means, drink your fresh organic peppermint tea with breakfast; sip your spearmint tea on a cool winter afternoon or a hot summer's day; drink mint tea in the evening as you read a book. It's naturally caffeine-free (unlike green tea leaves which has caffeine) so you can drink it whenever you get the urge. Drink peppermint tea hot or cold!Prepare mint tea at home with fresh peppermint leaves. Do some research to see what properties there are. Sometimes I pick off the peppermint leaves just to taste it! It's a healthy alternative to always chewing a mint chewing gum, especially for your jaw. Make a cup of tea tonight!
What other mint tea benefits do you know of? Do you like peppermint tea or peppermint oil? Can you find it at your local grocery store? How do you drink peppermint tea? How can it help your health?
How To Use Google Flights to Find Cheap Flights
Hello friend! I hope you're having a thoughtful, interesting, productive day. The last several weeks zoomed by in a ridiculously rapid haze of writing, creating, clients, emails, & making moves. During all the hubbub, Fred & I looked for flights throughout Europe. I get a lot of questions asking how I afford to travel. My secret? I use Google Flights as my own personal flight scanner.
It's a strategic process. I used Google Flights to search for tickets to Paris last year. I used it to find the best prices to Portland, Oregon. I've used Google Flights for several trips & it's my favorite way to save money on flights. We used Google Flights to book our latest trip too. In October, I headed to Spain, Germany, & Norway using tickets found via Google Flights!
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In an ideal scenario, we'd fly out from San Diego International Airport since it's the closest airport to us, but sometimes you can save $200+ from flying from LAX. It adds several hours of travel time but $200+ can make all the difference if you're on a budget or trying to travel affordably. Play around with the closest airports to you & to your destination to see price fluctuations. For example, roundtrip tickets from San Diego to Paris cost $560, whereas roundtrip Los Angeles to Paris is $360.
You're less likely to get a good deal if you have to travel during a specific timeframe. If possible, keep your dates open. Check different dates & compare prices. That's why our winter trip to London was so affordable. Cloudy, frigid, with a dash of snow, but holy moly, Christmastime in London still warms my soul when I think about it. Because we keep our calendar open, we accidentally booked Bucket List moments every time we travel: Christmas in London, Autumn in Portland, Spring in Paris, Halloween in Oslo.
We kept it simple by booking roundtrip flights the first couple Google Flights excursions. 7 nights in France. 9 nights in London (10, if you count the night we spent at London Gatwick Airport). If you're keen to explore multiple cities or countries on your trip, one-way flights or multi-city option is your best bet. It cost us a little over $29 for our flight from Barcelona to Berlin. $29. Less than a tank of gas & I'm off to a new country.
The $506 roundtrip LAX to Amsterdam flight with a 3-hour layover seems perfect until you look at the fine print: you have one stop in London where you have to transfer from London Heathrow Airport to London Gatwick. You'd have to deboard the plane, take your luggage, get a ride to a completely different airport, go through customs & security in 3 hours?! Sounds like a missed flight to me! Be aware of flight times & layovers on Google Flights. You might find a great price but there might be some sort of weird layover or stop or time. After playing around with dates more, I found a $493 roundtrip LAX to Amsterdam flight with 1 hr 45-minute layover in Philadelphia. Now that's doable.
Google Flights gave you affordable options & now you're ready to make a purchase. Heck yes! Save dollars when you book directly with the airline. Go to their website, search for your exact flight, date, & time, then make the purchase from there. Don't forget to sign up for any rewards to maximize potential savings.
Now that I booked my affordable flight tickets, time to find Airbnb accommodations, research things to do, eat, experience, & start my countdown! You have a trip planned? Have you used Google flights to find cheap flights? Do you use a flight scanner?
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* Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. Learn more about my disclosure. :]
Sinking House near Montmartre by the Sacre Coeur. |
It's a strategic process. I used Google Flights to search for tickets to Paris last year. I used it to find the best prices to Portland, Oregon. I've used Google Flights for several trips & it's my favorite way to save money on flights. We used Google Flights to book our latest trip too. In October, I headed to Spain, Germany, & Norway using tickets found via Google Flights!
Dying for more travel secrets? Sign up for travel tips, hacks, best photo spots, & behind-the-scenes designed for blogger, influencers, & travelers.
Play Around With Airports
In an ideal scenario, we'd fly out from San Diego International Airport since it's the closest airport to us, but sometimes you can save $200+ from flying from LAX. It adds several hours of travel time but $200+ can make all the difference if you're on a budget or trying to travel affordably. Play around with the closest airports to you & to your destination to see price fluctuations. For example, roundtrip tickets from San Diego to Paris cost $560, whereas roundtrip Los Angeles to Paris is $360.
Related reading: How I Decided to Quit My Corporate Job While Traveling in Paris
Keep Your Dates Open
You're less likely to get a good deal if you have to travel during a specific timeframe. If possible, keep your dates open. Check different dates & compare prices. That's why our winter trip to London was so affordable. Cloudy, frigid, with a dash of snow, but holy moly, Christmastime in London still warms my soul when I think about it. Because we keep our calendar open, we accidentally booked Bucket List moments every time we travel: Christmas in London, Autumn in Portland, Spring in Paris, Halloween in Oslo.
Check for One-Way Flights or Multi-City
We kept it simple by booking roundtrip flights the first couple Google Flights excursions. 7 nights in France. 9 nights in London (10, if you count the night we spent at London Gatwick Airport). If you're keen to explore multiple cities or countries on your trip, one-way flights or multi-city option is your best bet. It cost us a little over $29 for our flight from Barcelona to Berlin. $29. Less than a tank of gas & I'm off to a new country.
Be Aware of Flight Times & Layovers
The $506 roundtrip LAX to Amsterdam flight with a 3-hour layover seems perfect until you look at the fine print: you have one stop in London where you have to transfer from London Heathrow Airport to London Gatwick. You'd have to deboard the plane, take your luggage, get a ride to a completely different airport, go through customs & security in 3 hours?! Sounds like a missed flight to me! Be aware of flight times & layovers on Google Flights. You might find a great price but there might be some sort of weird layover or stop or time. After playing around with dates more, I found a $493 roundtrip LAX to Amsterdam flight with 1 hr 45-minute layover in Philadelphia. Now that's doable.
Book Directly With the Airline
Google Flights gave you affordable options & now you're ready to make a purchase. Heck yes! Save dollars when you book directly with the airline. Go to their website, search for your exact flight, date, & time, then make the purchase from there. Don't forget to sign up for any rewards to maximize potential savings.
Did these tips help you?
Now that I booked my affordable flight tickets, time to find Airbnb accommodations, research things to do, eat, experience, & start my countdown! You have a trip planned? Have you used Google flights to find cheap flights? Do you use a flight scanner?
Sign up for travel tips & behind-the-scenes, a newsletter for blogger, influencers, & travelers who want the best, most current information & ideas.
* Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. Learn more about my disclosure. :]
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