Does chamomile tea expire?

  • By: Emma
  • Date: December 2, 2022
  • Time to read: 3 min.

Herbal teas are a great way to relax and unwind after a long day. Chamomile tea is popular for many people, but does it expire? Keep reading to find out.

Does chamomile tea expire?

Pure chamomile tea does not expire, and one can safely enjoy it even well past their ‘best before date’. Chamomile tea is made of organic components and has a shelf life of 1-3 years. Organic teas like chamomile slowly lose their flavor and aroma. Chamomile tea does not technically expire but can lose its flavor over time.

Teas that expireTeas that do not expire
Camellia sinensis teasArtificially flavored teas
Medicinal herbal teasBerries and Fruit teas
Single herb teasBlend with fruit teas
Table 1: What teas do and do not expire?

How to tell if chamomile tea has gone bad?

Camellia tea has a long shelf life and can last up to 3 years if stored properly. However, over time the flavor of the tea will begin to fade and eventually go bad. There are a few ways to tell if your chamomile tea has gone bad, and these include:

The first way to tell if your chamomile tea has gone bad is by its appearance. The tea should be a light golden yellow, but it is past its prime if it has turned brown or black.

The second way to tell if your chamomile tea has gone bad is by its smell. If the tea has gone bad, it will develop a distinct sour smell.

How to store chamomile tea?

The best way to store chamomile tea is in a cool, dry place. Chamomile tea does not keep well in humid or warm conditions. Storing it in the fridge can also cause it to lose its flavor. If you must store chamomile tea in the fridge, put it in an airtight container.

Chamomile tea stored improperly or too long can develop mold or other bacteria, so it is crucial to check it before consuming.

What are the ingredients in Chamomile tea?

Chamomile tea is made using the dried flower heads of the plant Camellia sinensis. Chamomile tea has a sweet, apple-like taste and is naturally caffeine-free. Chamomile tea is often used as a natural remedy for anxiety and insomnia.

Chamomile tea contains several compounds that are thought to be responsible for its calming effect. These include apigenin, luteolin, bisabolol, and chrysin. Chamomile tea also contains a small amount of calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

A meta-analysis of 11 studies found that chamomile may effectively treat anxiety disorders. A review of 3 studies found that chamomile may help improve sleep quality. Chamomile tea is generally considered safe for most people to consume.

Is it OK to drink expired herbal tea?

Yes, it is okay to drink expired herbal tea. The expiration date on the tea is more of a guide for peak flavor than anything else. Herbal tea will not go rancid and expire in the same way that milk or meat does. The antioxidants in herbal tea are more potent after the expiration date. So, drink up!

How to improve the taste of Chamomile tea?

The taste of chamomile tea can be improved by adding a sweetener such as honey or sugar. You can also add lemon juice to give it a tart flavor.

If you find the taste of chamomile tea too bitter, try brewing it for a shorter time or using less water.

Experiment with different brewing times and amounts of water to find the perfect combination for your taste buds.

Conclusion

Chamomile tea is a shelf-stable product that can last for several years. However, it may lose its flavor over time. If you want to keep your chamomile tea fresh, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. You can also extend its shelf life by freezing it.

References

Why Is Chamomile Suddenly Everywhere? The New York Times.

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