The average tea bag, and those which claim to be 100% compostable and biodegradable, are actually tiny bags full of disposable plastics. Single-use tea bags are double or triple-wrapped in microplastics which do not break down in soil. These tea bags maintain a heavier carbon footprint and release microplastics into streams and oceans. In fact, a 2019 study by McGill University shows that “a single tea bag can release more than 3 billion nanoplastic particles and 11 billion microplastic particles into your cup during a steep,” according to sustainable tea enthusiasts MatchaAlternatives.

Loose leaf teas, however, are natural to the environment. They are compostable and sold in single canisters or bags, which reduces waste. Drinking loose leaf tea may be a bit uncomfortable for the beginner, as it often means drinking those tiny bits of herbs and flowers in a tea blend. Yet, these blends usually maintain many nutritious qualities which can support your body and your garden if you don’t enjoy drinking the actual bits of the blend.

Now that we know why loose leaf teas are more natural and sustainable than tea bags, here’s a recipe for a fun and refreshing natural tea made sustainably with a loose leaf blend.

Lemon and ginger are age-old favorites in the health and wellness world as they maintain a wide variety of benefits. Lemons are high in Vitamin C and fiber, support heart and digestive health, help control weight, protect against kidney stones and anemia, and reduce the risk of cancer. Ginger contains many medicinal properties and includes almost all of the same benefits as lemon. As a bonus, ginger boosts skin health and immunity, and reduces symptoms of PMS and other pains.

So, how can we incorporate such amazing health and digestive benefits into a natural, sustainable tea? Well, check out our simple and easy recipe below!

Honey, or other natural sweetener (Optional)

To start, boil four cups (one liter) of water.

Slice a lemon and a few pieces of ginger root (2-3 inches). Place the lemon and ginger slices into a pitcher.

Then, sprinkle in your loose leaf tea blend. Remember, add one teaspoon of the blend per cup of water used!

Tip: Green and Earl Grey teas mix best with lemon and ginger.

Pour the boiled water into the pitcher. Allow the tea to steep for about 20 minutes.

Tip: If you don’t like drinking the loose herbs, try placing your loose leaf tea blend in a reusable cotton tea bag, or use a tea ball infuser.

Serve hot or over ice! If desired, add honey or another natural sweetener.

· Tip 1: If serving iced, add twice the amount of tea to your mixture to maintain a strong flavor.

· Tip 2: Add a lemon wedge to your glass for an extra touch of class.

Sip, and enjoy!

We hope this fun and refreshing homemade natural lemon ginger tea quenches your summer thirst and helps you feel good about your environmental impact.

If you’re looking for a way to make your own zero-waste natural tea blends at home, check out this helpful article from EcoWatch.

Happy summer from your friends at Staiy!