What To Consider When Shopping For Herbal Blends Loose Leaf Tea

By Patrick Snyder


If you love drinking tea, you may be looking for new and delicious varieties to try. If you are tired of bagged versions, you may want to try one of the many different herbal blends loose leaf tea varieties that are available. Here are some tips that you can use to pick the right variety for your needs.

You may wonder why people choose loose leaf beverages when there are many that are conveniently packaged in individual bags. Some people do not like the idea of using cloth or paper bags because they feel the taste of the beverage will be affected. They may also feel that the water is able to access more of the leaves when the tea is steeping and the flavor will be much better.

One thing to consider is whether you are looking for a specific result or not. Some teas have specific effects. For example, chamomile blends can help someone relax or sleep more easily. Dandelion tea tends to act as a mild diuretic. Other herbal blends have different effects that you may want to think about before drinking them. If you are taking prescription medication you may want to make sure that there are no interactions between your herbal brew and the medication that you are taking. It is rare but not unheard of for interactions to take place.

While it can be convenient to simply toss a bag in hot water using loose leaf products is no longer as difficult as it was. Now there are many different pots and thermos models that use an integrated strainer to keep stray leaves from getting into your drink. Make sure that you use a strainer that is fine enough to trap small leaf fragments.

Caffeine sensitivity can be one reason why some people drink herbal beverages. Keep in mind that some teas can have as much caffeine or more than coffee. Others have different compounds that still give an energy boost. If you are very sensitive to these types of compounds, you may want to ask an expert whether you can minimize the effect or whether a different herbal blend might be better for you.

You should also find out what you need to do to prepare a particular blend properly. Some will need water that is warmer or cooler than others. Details to ask about include how much tea to add to your strainer and how long to let it steep. Some products can become bitter if they are allowed to steep for too long.

In the past it was hard to find herbal teas to try but this has changed. Many companies now offer different varieties for you to try. Stores will often have samples of different varieties that you can try when you are shopping so that you know you are getting a brew you will enjoy. If you are visiting someone and they have a tea that you like, make sure to ask what it is called and where they purchased it.

Of course, once you have found several types of tea that you like you may be tempted to buy them in bulk. This may not be the best idea. Leaves can get stale and you will want to make sure that your leaves are as fresh and flavorful as possible.




About the Author: