Olive leaf tea is made from the trimmed leaves from olive trees. Often these delicate leaves are trimmed by hand to preserve their delicate flavors as the leaves are laid flat to dry to make a loose leaf tea.
A great alternative to green or black tea, an olive leaf tea is 100% natural and caffeine-free, it has shown to help to fight infections and is a lovely addition to your herbal tea collection.
What are the benefits of olive leaf tea?
Research suggests that components of the olive leaf (most prominently, oleuropein) may have beneficial effects on health – such as benefits for hypertension, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and hyperlipidemia. Source. Olive Leaf tea is 100% natural and caffeine-free and has antioxidant properties.
What does olive leaf tea taste like?
The flavors of olive leaf tea are dependent on the varietal of olive leaf used but it can be compared to a mild green tea with notes of olive oil on the back of the throat.
What is the best way to brew olive leaf tea?
- Fresh or spring water is best for brewing tea, or use filtered tap water if available.
- Bring the water to a boil (212) then reduce heat to let the water cool to approximately 185.
- Allow the tea to steep 3-8 minutes depending on the strength you desire. Or if you are making a tea cocktail or other multi-ingredient beverage, brew for several hours.
- If the water is too hot the water will “burn” olive leaf lowering the antioxidant polyphenol count and bring out a bitter flavor in the olive leaf tea.
Where can you buy olive leaf tea?
You can find olive leaf tea at most major grocery store chains or online but I would suggest supporting a small business such as Steep Echo in California. This olive orchard hand prunes their olive trees to encourage a hearty olive crop and then used those olive leaves to craft loose olive leaf tea.
The orchard is watered by natural spring water that comes down the mountain onto the property to sustainably irrigate the olive orchard. They currently have 5 tea blends, all crafted to enhance and preserve the flavors and health benefits of the olive leaves.
What recipes can be made with olive leaf tea?
- “ARNOLD PALMER” WITH BLOOM
- Bloom Gin Gimlet a delicious variation on the classic Gin Gimlet
- Ginger Hush Fizz
- Repose Sorbet
- Tea-Tini
- Tequila Berry Smash
- Popsicles, Slushie & Cubes
Sarah Mock
CEO/Owner/Founder/Culinary Blogger
Sarah Mock is a classically trained Chef and graduate of Johnson & Wales University. A culinary blogger for 12 years Sarah helps the home cook prepare her recipes with professional results.