Does Chamomile Tea Expire?
Chamomile tea is a widely consumed herbal infusion known for its ability to induce relaxation. It has many other health benefits, and its use as a remedy for insomnia dates back centuries.
But does this herbal tea have an expiration date?
Tea bags can last for 18 to 24 months without degrading in quality, even if there is an expiration date on the package. Even after expiration, chamomile tea bags can be used for up to 6 to 12 months if stored correctly, and the packaging is intact.
Storing tea bags in the fridge or freezer is not recommended due to potential flavor degradation from condensation.
To determine if tea bags are still good, brew a cup for 3 to 5 minutes and check the aroma and flavor – if weak, it’s time to replace them with new ones.
Can You Drink Leftover Chamomile Tea?
It’s important not to drink leftover tea left out for longer than 8 hours as it can be dangerous to the body. Vitamins may be lost, and harmful chemicals may be produced. The ideal time to drink tea is within half an hour of brewing when it is pleasantly warm but not piping hot or cold. Excess batches can be frozen and stored for up to 6 months, which is a safer option than leaving it out.
How Long Does Tea Last in the Fridge?
If stored correctly, chamomile tea can remain in the refrigerator for 2 to 4 days. Airtight containers are recommended to preserve flavor and prevent air or moisture contamination.
How To Know If Chamomile Tea Is Bad?
Tea that has gone bad will have a dull appearance and may even have fungi growing. Drinking it could cause symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, or a disturbed stomach. Avoid leaving tea out for more than 8 hours following preparation to keep it from spoiling. Storing it in a sealed container in the fridge can preserve its freshness for 48 hours. Alternatively, freezing excess batches of tea is safer as it can be stored for up to 6 months without spoilage.
How To Preserve Chamomile Tea Flowers?
To preserve chamomile flowers, collect and dry them to prevent spoilage while maintaining nutrition and flavor. The process involves washing the flowers well, then spreading them out on a window screen in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. After 1-2 weeks of proper drying, transfer the chamomile to an airtight glass or metal container, where it can last up to one year.
Conclusion
Chamomile tea should be consumed at most 8 hours after preparation. In case of any remaining portions, preserve them in a hermetically sealed container in the fridge for 48 to 96 hours, or freeze them for up to 180 days.
Teabags usually don’t expire and can remain good for up to 24 months. Even if there’s an expiration date on the packaging, teabags can be safely used for another 6 to 12 months after the date.
If you feel that your chamomile tea has gone bad or lost its taste, consider exploring these chamomile tea brands for your next batch.
