Spilling all the Tea
Published September 7, 2025
I used to think tea was… fine. You know - the thing your mom made you when you were sick, or what people in movies drink when they’re about to share some ancient life wisdom. I’d heard the hype: “It calms you down! It’s great for sleep! It’s magical for your stomach!” But honestly? I was more of a “grab the Advil, drink the Pepto, and keep it moving” girl.
Then, somewhere between “I can eat whatever I want and feel fine” and “Oh wow, my body has opinions now,” tea quietly became my thing. My comfort. My fix-it kit. My “let’s try this before asking Chat GPT if I’m okay” moment.
Do I still take medicine sometimes? Yes. But these days, my kettle is basically my first responder. And without meaning to, I’ve built a tea collection that says, “I have my life together” -even if I’m drinking it in pajamas at 3 p.m.
Now, I’m going to share my go-to teas and the times of day I find them most helpful. This isn’t just a vibe thing — it’s strategic sipping. My dietitian (shoutout to her for helping me navigate my IBS and gut health) even gave me some solid tea intel:
Always drink out of a real mug — not styrofoam. The wax lining in those cups can irritate your stomach. Pro tip: Keep a favorite mug at work so you’re never stuck without one.
Loose-leaf > tea bags — because you never know how those bags are processed or packaged, and some can cause irritation. Plus, loose leaves just feel fancier.
So, with that in mind, here’s how I steep through my day:
Peppermint Tea – Morning
Before breakfast, I start with peppermint tea. It feels fresh and clean—like a natural reset for digestion—awakening the body gently without caffeine.
Dandelion Leaf & Root – Morning/Afternoon
After a weekend of indulgence - fries, sweets, and all the extras - I turn to dandelion tea. Its earthy, grounding flavor feels like a gentle reset for both body and mind.
Raspberry Leaf Tea – Afternoon/Night (Pre-Period)
A few days before my period, raspberry leaf tea joins the routine. Traditionally known for easing cramps, for me it’s more of a steady ritual - comfort in a cup while my body shifts into its monthly rhythm.
Fennel Seed Tea with Black Salt – After Meals/Evening SOS
When my stomach is being dramatic for no reason, fennel seed tea with black salt comes to the rescue. It’s sweet, salty, and tastes like my digestive system just booked itself into a luxury spa.
Chamomile Tea – Night
Chamomile is my nightly peace treaty. Steeped long and slow, it becomes a gentle “shhh” for the mind, reminding me to let go of the day and settle into rest. I especially love sipping it while I journal, letting the words flow as the tea helps me unwind.
Turmeric & Ginger – Anytime
When my joints ache or digestion slows, turmeric and ginger arrive with steady warmth, soothing, balancing, and bringing the comfort my body needs.
I never meant to build a whole tea lineup, but here we are. It’s been almost six months without caffeine, and thanks to my tea routine, I still have the energy I used to get from coffee, just without the jitters.
So, if you have a tea you love, send me a message. My kettle is always ready to make new friends.
