How to survive the recession? Drink more tea!

3rd February 2009

While magazines and money-saving experts are encouraging us to ditch our morning latte (it's an unnecessary expense and fattening to boot) continuing to drink tea could be the best way to stave off credit crunch misery. Alexandra Fullerton finds some surprising tea tips that will keep you in the black.

As people bunker down and wait out the financial storm it's been revealed that 'back to basics' brands - such as sliced bread and tea bags - are the ones we're stocking up on.  Sales of regular teas are soaring in supermarkets while Twining's announced that sales of 'everyday' varieties and the classic 'builder's' brew are proving more popular than pricier blends. If you're watching the pennies tea is probably one of the most economical drinks around.

Here's the maths: If your coffee fix costs £1.50 each day consider the fact that a pack of 80 tea bags comes in at under £1.60 at the major supermarkets. By drinking the recommended 4 cups a day a pack will last you 20 days... That's under 2p per cup. A truly bargain brew!

Whatever state your finances are in, health experts such as Dr Hilary Jones suggest that taking care of your health should still be your number 1 priority. If your body and mind are in good shape you'll be better placed to cope with potential stress. With it's amazing antioxidants and hydrating properties tea is the best drink to keep you fit. Everyone knows the feeling of warmth, satisfaction and relief you get when supping a good brew: That's because the caffeine in your cuppa lifts your mood and offers instant cheer.

Once you've drunk your cuppa don't throw away the used bag!

* For a cheap beauty treat let two steeped tea bags cool down. Find a quiet place to chill out for ten minutes then pop the bags onto your closed eyelids for the ultimate in an economical eye compress. The anti-inflammatory properties in the tea helps reduce puffiness and soothes the dreaded red-eye.

* If you suffer from smelly feet soak your plates in strong black tea (re-brew several used tea-bags in a bowl). Tea's astringent and antibacterial properties help to reduce bad odours.

* During the warmer weather holding a used, cold, green tea bag over insect bites should soothe any itching and swelling. That's what we call double duty beauty.

You can get even more mileage from a used tea bag by taking it into the garden

Green fingered recessionistas should split used bags and mix the leaves with charcoal or ashes to create the perfect potting soil. Individual bags can be placed around the base of your plants too. The nutrients in the leaves will seep into the ground giving your growing shoots a boost.

Saving money on everyday items means you can still afford an occasional treat. Instead of spending money on an expensive evening out with dinner and drinks go for afternoon tea instead. Switching from dinner to tea is a nationwide trend - some tea rooms have reported an increase in bookings of up to 30%. Picking a glamourous venue will make your outing feel just as opulent than if you'd gone out for a swanky supper - but it will be much less of a strain on your purse. Make sure you book early though! At the Ritz in London visitors must book up to 12 weeks in advance to secure a table. That should you give plenty of time to save up!