Are you new to the world of loose-leaf tea? Don't worry, we've got you covered! Loose-leaf tea can seem a bit overwhelming at first, with so many different flavours to choose from, but it's actually a really fun and rewarding way to explore the amazing flavours and health benefits you get from every sip. Loose leaf tea comes in a variety of flavours, each with its own unique flavour profile. From the delicate, grassy notes of Japanese green teas to the bold, robust character of black teas, there's a loose-leaf tea to suit every palate.

What are the health benefits of Loose Leaf Tea?

There are numerous well-documented health benefits of drinking loose leaf tea. Loose-leaf tea is rich in antioxidants, which can improve brain function, and may help lower the risk of certain diseases. The antioxidants in tea, such as polyphenols (micronutrients that naturally occur in plants) and catechins can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of diseases like cancer and heart disease.

Loose leaf tea may also help lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. Studies have found that drinking more than 600 ml (about 2 cups) of green, oolong, or black tea per day is associated with a decreased risk of developing dyslipidemia, a condition characterised by abnormal cholesterol levels. Specifically, oolong tea consumption has been linked to lower levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol, triglycerides, and higher levels of HDL ("good") cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease.

What are the best loose-leaf teas for beginners?

Lemongrass Tea is an excellent choice for those new to loose-leaf herbal teas. Compared to some other loose-leaf teas that can have strong, powerful flavours, lemongrass tea has a mild, citrusy taste that is not too overpowering, making it a great starting point for beginners.

Another fantastic option for those who are new to loose-leaf tea is our Organic Rose Flower Leaf Cut Tea, which has a light, subtle and floral taste. This tea, if found to be too bitter, can be sweetened with honey. What’s more, it’s naturally caffeine-free, a good source of hydration, and rich in antioxidants.

Loose leaf tea or bagged tea?

Loose-leaf tea is made from larger, whole tea leaves that can fully expand and release their essential oils and aromatic compounds when brewed. This results in a much richer, more nuanced flavour profile compared to the crushed and powdered tea leaves used in tea bags.

The processing that tea leaves undergo to be packaged into tea bags can degrade the quality of healthy compounds like antioxidants and catechins, vital for your daily bodily function. Loose-leaf tea can retain more of these nutrients since the leaves are less processed. This is particularly important for all of our organic teas, where the catechin content is a key factor in the health benefits.

Loose-leaf tea is generally fresher than tea found in bags, as the leaves are less exposed to air and light which can cause degradation of the tea's quality over time. Tea bags are also more prone to absorbing odours and flavours from their packaging.

How do you make loose leaf tea?

To make loose-leaf tea, follow these steps:

  1. Measure the tea. Use about 5g (2 teaspoons) of loose-leaf tea per 400ml of water. Adjust the amount to your desired strength.

  2. Heat the water to the right temperature. For black teas, use freshly boiled 100°C water. For more delicate teas like green or white, use 85°C water to avoid bitterness.

  3. Steep the tea. Let the tea leaves steep for 3-5 minutes for black tea or 3-4 minutes for green tea. Avoid stirring or squeezing the leaves, as this can release bitterness.

  4. Optional: Add milk, honey, or sugar if desired. Many people prefer to drink loose-leaf tea black first to fully appreciate the wonderful flavours.

  5. Strain and serve. Use a tea strainer or infuser to separate the leaves from the brewed tea before pouring it into your cup.

Our recommendation for Loose Leaf Tea Connoisseurs

Organic Hibiscus Gudhal Cut Tea is an excellent option for loose leaf tea connoisseurs. Hibiscus, also known as Gudhal, is a tropical plant native to East Asia that is prized for its vibrant red colour and numerous health benefits.

The tea is made from the dried leaves of the Hibiscus rosa-sinensis plant, known to be high in vitamin C, making it fantastic for the immune system.

The flavour of this tea is rich, tart, and slightly sweet and the deep red colour of the tea infusion is sure to catch the eye. Hibiscus tea can be enjoyed hot or cold and is often sweetened with honey or flavoured with a squeeze of lime to balance the natural tartness of the Hibiscus.

Try one of our wonderful loose leaf teas today

Whether you're a seasoned tea connoisseur or just beginning to explore the world of loose-leaf teas, we invite you to try one of our wonderful selections today. From classic loose leaf teas to exotic herbal blends, there's a loose-leaf tea waiting to become your new favourite. Explore our range today!

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“ Ordered for the first time from Natural Thrive. The Website site is comprehensive and easy to use. Delivery is good. ”

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“ This was my first purchase from Natural Thrive and I was very impressed. The website was easy to navigate & a good delivery service. Great products ”

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“ Always delivered promptly, with fantastic quality and price. I have been ordering for months and am always happy with them. highly recommend ”

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“This is a Company that cares, and from both my experience and Family members, it is in every way excellent in the Herbal material, service, packing and fast delivery! Highly recommended!”

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