The Cat's Pyjamas

150/365

This is another from Bluebird’s recent Dreamtime collection. I was slightly wary since it’s pretty heavy on the chamomile, but I figured the cinnamon might be an interesting twist. Besides, anything that’s going to help me sleep at this point is welcome – and there’s valerian root in here!

I drank this without additions, and sadly it tastes pretty much like a plain chamomile tea. There’s the tiniest hint of cinnamon, but it certainly can’t compete with the thick sweetness of the chamomile. There’s also a light earthiness from the valerian root, but it’s very much in the background – which is probably a good thing since it’s a relatively musty flavour. It certainly has an impact on the scent of the dry leaf, and I was hoping it wouldn’t be that strong once brewed – fortunately, I got my way on that count!

I am a little disappointed that the cinnamon isn’t stronger, since I think that could bring this blend to life. As it stands, the taste is little different plain chamomile, and there are many other blends that could stand in if you’re going for flavour alone. In terms of effect, though, it’s reasonably effective. I did have a pretty good night’s sleep, although it still took me some time to drop off. It didn’t make me feel as relaxed or sleepy as Lazy Boy, but there could be any number of reasons for that. On the whole, I’m pretty happy with this one – except that a more unique flavour would have been appreciated!

Recently I picked up a sampler set of the Dreamtime Collection from Bluebird Tea Co., mostly because the blends in the set included lavender, and I’ve been on a big lavender kick lately. This was the only blend in the collection lacking lavender, and therefore the one I was the least interested in… but I have to turn in early tonight because I have a cataloger’s meeting that is at a library two hours away tomorrow (meaning I have to get up at the buttcrack of dawn to get on the road to make it in time!), so I figured this blend, with it’s valerian root (known as a holistic sleep aid) and chamomile (a beloved relaxant) would be a good choice to try to get me to bed a bit early.

As far as flavor… I’m not going to lie, this tea isn’t a favorite. I am not a fan of the flavor of chamomile, and that is all I can smell and taste from this cup of tea. I was really hoping that the lemon verbena in the blend would leave a stronger impression (or any impression, really) and bring some nice citrus notes to the forefront, but I just get that strong, floral, chamomile flavor. There is no cinnamon flavor or spicy warmth from the cinnamon in the blend, either. As far as I’m concerned, I may as well just be drinking plain chamomile tea, here. It’s pretty disappointing, especially since I prefer chamomile notes in a blend to be on the subtle side. When they are this strong, I have to add lemon juice and honey to the tea to make it more palatable.

So as far as taste goes, this tea fails for me. Fuctionally, though, this tea works very well! I had two cups in the evening, and I was really winding down, feeling quite groggy and drowsy well before my typical bedtime! As far as a nightcap to help unwind and get ready to go to bed, I think this herbal hits the spot! If you are looking for a good “unwind” tea to help you nod off, you may want to give this one a try!