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We know that getting started with loose leaf tea can come with a lot of questions, especially if you're new to drinking tea. In this blog post, we've compiled answers to seven of the most common questions we receive about our teas. Whether you're curious about the best way to brew your tea, how long it takes to see results, or if you can enjoy your tea iced, we've got you covered. Our goal is to help you get the most out of your tea experience and provide you with all the information you need. Let's get into the details!
How much tea do you use per cup, and how long do you steep it?
When brewing loose leaf tea, the gold standard is one level-to-rounded teaspoon of tea for every eight ounces of hot water. If you’re unsure what eight ounces looks like, use a measuring cup as a guide. Steeping times vary depending on the tea. For most herbal teas, it takes longer to extract all the beneficial compounds, so we typically suggest brewing your tea for five minutes or longer. Always refer to the packaging for individual steeping instructions or visit the product page on our website for a quick reference.
Here are our recommendations for tea-making essentials:
- An electric kettle is a total game changer
- These drawstring paper tea filters are super simple to use and no messy cleanup
- A tea tumbler with a built-in tea infuser is a must-have when you're on the go
- This measuring teaspoon will help you have the perfect brew every time
- Use the timer on your phone or get one of these digital tea timers to make sure you don't over-brew your tea
- A muddler for adding crushed fresh fruit to your tea
How long does it take for it to work, and when will I see results?
The time it takes to see results depends on the tea and your purpose for using it. Sedating, sleep-promoting teas typically work quickly, often within an hour. However, for chronic issues like inflammation or fatigue, it can take up to 90 days to notice significant improvements. This doesn’t mean the teas take 90 days to start working; rather, it takes time for the changes to become noticeable. We recommend using a wellness tracker journal to monitor your progress and pay attention to subtle changes in your body.
Keeping track of your healthy habits with this wellness tracker journal so you can chart your progress and wins from the healthy choices that you make every day.
Can I drink the tea over ice, or does it have to be hot?
You can enjoy our teas either hot or over ice. Both methods provide benefits. However, certain teas may be more effective when consumed hot. For instance, if you’re dealing with a cold or flu, hot tea is more beneficial than iced tea. Similarly, hot tea is better for digestion when consumed before a meal. Beyond these guidelines, it’s up to your personal preference. Hot teas are comforting and soothing, while iced teas are refreshing and hydrating. Try your tea both ways to experience the benefits of each.
Our most popular iced teas are:
Our most popular hot teas include:
Here is our ultimate reference guide for everything you need to know about making the best iced tea
Can you drink your tea during pregnancy or when on medication?
Our teas are made from non-toxic botanicals that are generally regarded as safe. However, not all herbal teas are suitable for everyone. If you’re pregnant, on medication, or under a doctor’s care, we recommend speaking to your health practitioner before using the tea. While there is a wealth of research on the herbs we use, your physician may not be familiar with it and might advise caution. Additionally, your pharmacist can be a helpful resource for checking potential interactions with your prescribed medication.
Can you combine the different teas rather than drinking them separately?
While blending teas for convenience makes sense, each tea is a complete and unique blend on its own. We suggest trying them individually first to understand how your body responds and to familiarize yourself with their flavors. Once you're comfortable, you can experiment with blends. Similar flavors tend to go well together, such as minty teas or fruity teas. Here are some pairings to try:
- Detox Chai with Turmeric Fusion
- Sleek & Slender with Bye Bye Bloat
- Bye Bye Bloat with Inflammation Relief
- Lush Lavender with Nitey Nite
What if I don’t like the taste of the tea?
If you're new to loose leaf herbal teas, the flavors might be unfamiliar at first. Give your palate time to adjust. If the taste is still challenging, try these tips:
- Drink the tea quickly, like a shot, and follow with a chaser such as water or juice.
- Turn it into a tea latte with creamy coconut or oat milk.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for natural sweetness and extra health benefits.
- Add mint for a refreshing flavor that can mask other tastes.
- Brew the tea with muddled fresh fruit for added sweetness and fruity flavor.
If you still don't enjoy the taste, keep experimenting with different teas. There are many options available, and you're sure to find one you love.
Here are 6 ways to make your tea taste better without adding sweetener
Are your teas organic, and where do you get your ingredients?
With the exception of one or two wild-crafted herbs, we use only certified organic ingredients in all our teas. Our ingredients come from all over the world, sourced from regions where each botanical flourishes best. Our trusted suppliers perform third-party testing for agricultural chemicals, mold, heavy metals, and other contaminants to ensure the highest quality and safety.
Also read: How to store your loose leaf tea
Do you have a burning question that we didn’t answer here? Send us an email at info@looseleafmarket.com; we’d love to hear from you!
Happy sipping!