Milk thistle tea has many great benefits like supporting liver function, improving digestion, and reducing inflammation. It is a refreshing way to enjoy the benefits of milk thistle, and preparing it is quite simple. If you’re new to brewing tea, this guide will outline everything you need to know to make the perfect cup of milk thistle tea.
The Ingredients
Before you start brewing, you must gather some basic equipment and ingredients.
Milk Thistle Seeds
The key ingredient in milk thistle tea is, of course, milk thistle seeds. These seeds can be purchased from health food stores or online. Make sure to buy organic or pesticide-free seeds.
Filtered Water
The quality of water that you use will affect the taste and quality of your tea. Filtered water is the best choice for making tea. Avoid using tap water as it can contain impurities and affect the taste of your tea.
Teapot or a Mug
A teapot or a mug is needed for steeping the tea. Choose one that is made of ceramic, porcelain, or glass so that it won’t affect the taste of your tea.
Tea Strainer
A tea strainer will help you to strain out the leaves or seeds after steeping, and ensure you have a smooth cup of tea.
The Brewing Process
Step 1 – Boiling Water
First, boil some water in a kettle or a pot. Once water has boiled, allow it to cool for a few minutes because pouring boiling water directly on the seeds can spoil the taste of the tea.
Step 2 – Grinding and Measuring Seeds
Grind one teaspoon of milk thistle seeds in a coffee or seed grinder. You can adjust the amount of seeds to your preference or to accommodate the size of your teapot/mug. A recommended size is 1 tsp per cup of water.
Step 3 – Adding Seeds to Teapot or Mug
Add the ground milk thistle seeds to the teapot or mug. You can also add other herbs like lemon balm or spearmint to add flavor to your tea.
Step 4 – Pouring Hot Water and Steeping
Next, pour the hot water over the seeds in the teapot or mug. Cover with a lid or tea cozy and let it steep for 10-15 minutes. Be sure to keep the water temperature between 85-90°C.
Step 5 – Straining and Serving
After steeping, remove the seeds with a strainer, and pour the tea into a cup. Add honey, lemon or milk to taste. Sit back and enjoy your perfect cup of milk thistle tea!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips to make sure you get the perfect cup of milk thistle tea:
- Grind the seeds right before brewing for the freshest taste.
- Use only the recommended amount of seeds to prevent an overwhelmingly bitter taste.
- Steep the seeds for the appropriate amount of time. Over-steeping can result in a very bitter taste.
- Use fresh, filtered water to prevent any unpleasant tastes or aromas.
- For a more flavorful drink, add other herbs or spices such as ginger or turmeric.
Health Benefits of Milk Thistle Tea
Milk thistle tea has several benefits that can improve your health:
- It supports liver function by promoting liver regeneration and detoxification of harmful toxins in the liver.
- It helps in lowering cholesterol levels, resulting in a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
- It reduces inflammation in the body and can help manage symptoms of inflammatory conditions.
- It helps in promoting digestion by stimulating the secretion of digestive enzymes and bile, which also helps prevent bloating and constipation.
FAQs
Q. How long can I store milk thistle seeds?
A. It is recommended to store milk thistle seeds in an airtight container in a cool and dry place, away from sunlight. They can last up to two years if stored properly.
Q. Can I use milk thistle supplements instead of seeds to make tea?
A. No, milk thistle supplements are in capsule form, which contains the extract of the milk thistle plant. The extract may not dissolve in boiling water, or it may not taste as good as a traditional herbal tea.
Q. Can I drink milk thistle tea daily, and is there any side effects?
A. Milk thistle tea is safe to drink daily, and there are no significant side effects. However, some people may experience stomach discomfort, diarrhea or bloating. It is always better to consult with your doctor before adding any supplements or herbs in your daily routine.
Q. Can I add sugar or other sweeteners to my milk thistle tea?
A. Yes, you can add sugar, honey or any natural sweetener to your tea to improve the taste.
References
1. Abenavoli, L., Capasso, R., & Milic, N. (2010). Milk thistle in liver diseases: past, present, future. Phytotherapy Research, 24(10), 1423-1432.
2. Flora, K., Hahn, M., Rosen, H., & Benner, K. (1998). Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) for the therapy of liver disease. The American journal of gastroenterology, 93(2), 139-143.
3. Pradhan, S. C., & Girish, C. (2006). Hepatoprotective herbal drug, silymarin from experimental pharmacology to clinical medicine. Indian Journal of Medical Research, 124(5), 491.