How Long To Steep Chamomile Tea?

Learn how to brew and how long to steep chamomile tea in our guide.

How Long To Steep Chamomile Tea
There are general process in making and steeping your chamomile tea

What many people realize is that tea is a fine art. While it may seem simple enough – water, tea bag, you’re done – that is not necessarily the case. Many more factors go into making the perfect cup of tea, particularly the perfect cup of chamomile tea. 

If you’re considering making your chamomile tea but don’t know where to start, look no further. Here we go through the general process of creating and steeping your chamomile tea, as well as some benefits and dosages. 

Choose Your Container 

Depending on how much tea you are going to brew, the size of your mug or canister may vary. If you are only looking to brew a single cup, you need a regular mug. If you plan on brewing a large batch of tea, you may think of using a thermos or something larger. 

Brewing in a larger container allows you to store extra tea for longer enjoyment. 

Boil Water 

There are a few different ways you can boil water for your tea. If you have a kettle, you can simply use that. If you don’t have a kettle, you can boil hot water on the stovetop or even in the microwave. 

The amount of water you need to boil will again vary depending on the tea amount and container size. In general, you can boil 6-8 ounces of water if you are making a normal amount of chamomile tea. You can use a teapot or a regular pot on the stove.

Place Your Chamomile At The Bottom Of Your Container And Pour Your Boiled Water Over Top 

boiled water poured in a cup
Adding more water will dilute the tea, and adding less will make it stronger

At this point, you will place your chamomile flower at the bottom of your mug or thermos. From there, you will pour your boiling water on top – adding more water will dilute the tea more, while adding less will make it stronger. Play around with the measurements to find a mixture that works well for you. 

Let The Mixture Sit AKA Steep Your Tea 

Now’s the time! Steeping your tea is one of the ways to create a personalized tea unique to your specific tastes. 

Steep time, similar to water amount, is a personal preference. Steeping for longer may result in a stronger flavor, but steeping too long can result in a bitter and displeasing taste. In general, it is recommended to steep your tea for five minutes. 

You can try experimenting with different steep times to find the perfect amount for your tea tastes. 

Strain (If Applicable!) 

If you use chamomile flowers, then your tea now has small leaves in it. I don’t know about you, but I prefer my tea to be debris-free. You should strain your current mixture into a new mug to get the texture you desire. 

Dress It Up 

Your chamomile tea is now complete and totally drinkable. If you prefer your tea black, feel free to consume as-is. If you enjoy some extras such as cream, milk, or sugar, now is the time to add whatever you want to your tea. 

Chamomile tea pairs well with sweeteners and certain creamers to give a creamy and rich taste. 

How Long Should Chamomile Tea Steep?

To get the best tasting and most enjoyable chamomile tea, you should really not steep for long at all. For every 8 ounces of water you have in your mug, you should only steep for three to five minutes! Steeping for longer can have an adverse effect and alter the taste of your tea negatively. 

How Much Chamomile Tea Should I Drink? 

Drinking chamomile tea daily can produce many benefits to the body. It has been used in traditional medicine for many years. Chamomile can be used to cure stomach issues as well as help with sleep and energy. 

Chamomile can reduce nausea and vomiting, which makes it a great option to have around when sick. Many women consume chamomile during their menstrual cycle as a relieving method for cramping. 

There are also other methods for consuming chamomile rather than tea. Some people also consume the flower on its own or add it to foods such as oatmeal and yogurts. 

There is no set limit on how much chamomile one should take in a single day. Some people will drink multiple cups of chamomile tea every day – it is a personal preference. Some have their own choice of herbal tea, white tea, or green tea they like to drink on the side.

You may also like a nice cup of iced tea you want to drink with it. It is essential to consult a doctor if you plan to consume anything in excess amounts. 

Should I Consume Chamomile? 

cup of chamomile tea nesting at a top of a wood
Chamomile is natural remedy for numerous health conditions

Consuming chamomile is a personal preference, in the same way consuming dairy or eating meat is. While chamomile may work well for some people, it may not work well for all, which can be said about any type of food or flower. 

If you’d like to start consuming chamomile, consider doing your own research on the different ways to consume it as well as how much of it to consume. While there are claims that chamomile has healing effects and may work to cure ailments, it’s important to remember that these are all general claims, and one should always consult a professional. 

Author

  • Aisling O'Connor

    Aisling is an Irish food and drinks writer and journalist fueled by coffee and herbal tea. She followed up her journalism degree with nutrition studies. Find Aisling on LinkedIn.