We were recently asked about blending essential oils in bulk
tea leaves which got us thinking about the many varied uses of essential
oils. Just as there is a learning curve
for blending essential oils, there is also one for blending teas. For the most part, it is recommended to use
herbs, spices, etc. in blending bulk teas but there are those connoisseurs who
also dabble with the oils and natural flavoring extracts.
Marge will add a drop of Lemon essential oil to iced tea,
around the holidays a tiny amount of Nutmeg hydrosol to coffee, or even
peppermint hydrosol to make a cooling summer tea. Only the most minute amount is needed,
remember the “less is more,” rule of aromatherapy blending! She also occasionally adds oils for flavoring
in cooking or baking.
After doing some research, we read that Green Tea is more
favorable for bulk tea leaf blending, as it is more likely to take on the
essential oil components for flavoring. We can’t definitely confirm what we
read about the Green Tea, other than to rely on the source. There is just not much information available
about blending essential oils with bulk tea leaves and perhaps it is not even
the best method. Some experimenting
would need to be done but it sounds like fun if you are up for the challenge!
Marge suggests just a drop or two in your favorite tea,
coffee, or cocoa. We did discover some advocate adding essential oils directly
to the tea leaves, wearing powder free gloves and using a stainless steel bowl for
the process…you can add the desired oils and toss together to saturate the
leaves. Apparently some oils bind
quicker than others or are a bit stronger (like Cinnamon) and would not need to
“sit” as long.
However, Marge is thinking that maybe tearing off a small
piece of paper towel and adding a couple of drops of essential oil to it, and
closing it up tight in a small canister of tea or tea leaves might be a good starting
point. (No need in wasting tea or oil on large amounts.) Starting out with just
a drop or two would be best. You could
always add more as needed. She does the
same thing to flavor sugar with our Vanilla CO2 and sometimes adds a drop or
two of Ginger EO to a jar of honey for flavoring. Yummy!
An interesting fact: Bergamot is added to commercial Earl
Grey tea, a favorite of the Brits! But if using citrus oils, it is crucial to
make sure you are selecting Organic citrus oils. Non-organic could likely be
from a sprayed crop. No one wants to
ingest that! We would also limit our exploration to the "foodie" oils, citrus rinds, gentle spices and herbs.
We would love to hear from you if you’ve “taken the plunge,”
(couldn’t resist!) and experimented with food or beverages blended with
essential oils, including your hints, tips, and recipes. Remember, all safety considerations should be
followed, and cautions heeded about any particular oil you are using.
By Christi R. Pugh
For Nature’s Gift, Inc.