We’ve seen the rise of low sugar, functional beverages, a growing number of non-alcoholic drinks hit the market, and a new (and renewed) interest in tea—all amplified if not a result of the pandemic. People are making changes to their lifestyle, taking better care of themselves both emotionally and physically. They are also relying more on teas for energy, immunity, focus, improved mood, and sleep. The addition of herbs to what used to be just black or green tea is delivering what consumers are looking for.
“There is a different tea for each mood—one that pairs perfectly with reading a book, another for lively conversation with friends, a blend that will help you to relax or focus to get a bunch of work done.”
—Andy Hayes, Plum Deluxe Teas
Here are 5 herbs that can be added to teas for both great flavor and function with the potential to spark even more interest in tea drinking.
GINGER ROOT
Ginger has a sharp taste, smells refreshing, and has a spicy bite which makes it a great addition to black or green tea. Not all herbs taste as delicious as ginger and still have such promising uses. Ginger tea has traditionally been used to relieve cold and fever symptoms and is often a recommended natural remedy to ease an upset stomach. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that support immunity. Ginger root can be found mixed with other herbs like anise and cardamom to support healthy digestion.
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ELDERBERRY
If you are looking for an herb to help boost immunity and chill you out, elderberries could be the one. They are tangy, a little bitter with some nice floral notes—not sweet like blackberries but pack similar nutrients, antioxidants, and vitamins. Elderberries were historically used to help tame inflammation and reduce stress. Try adding dried elderberries with fruit pieces and chamomile flowers for a calming, yet good-for-you herbal tea. Elderberry could bring a new flavor to black or green tea for energy plus immunity support.
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CHAMOMILE
There are certain herbs that are informally classified as “sleep herbs” and chamomile is one that often makes the list. It has a slight apple-like smell and taste, making it an easy-drinking herb and complimentary to many teas and flavors. When ground chamomile or chamomile flowers are brewed, they are renowned for soothing frayed nerves or an upset stomach.
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PEPPERMINT
Dried peppermint leaf is one of the most popular herbs used for tea because it blends so well with most other herbs. Peppermint contains menthol oils giving it that invigorating smell and delicious taste with the bonus of aiding digestion. For a simple, soothing drink, try mixing peppermint with antioxidant-rich gunpowder green tea.
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KAVA KAVA ROOT
The active compounds in kava are a group of acids collectively referred to as kavalactones. Because these agents have an effect on the central nervous system, the herb is known as the “peace plant” and is typically enjoyed at the end of the day by Pacific Islanders. Kava kava root can taste a little sour, so it’s best when mixed with other tasty herbs or caffeinated teas.
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According to Nielsen data, the tea industry has gotten a serious bump in sales* over the last couple of years and one way to keep the upward trend going is through product and flavor innovation. The herbs above are some of the more popular and time-tested, but there is a vast world of plants with different flavors, colors, and functions to explore.
We provide bulk herbs to a range of beverage, tea, kombucha, and alcoholic beverage brands. Reach out to us if you are thinking of creating a new product and need a source for quality bulk herbs at competitive prices.
*foodnavigator-usa.com
