More Paleo Tea

As I mentioned in my previous post, I love tea!  I used to take my tea with skim milk and two sugars, then I “progressed” onto sweeteners with whole milk.  Now, I have it on it's own – I don't think I could go back to how I drank it before, my tastes have changed so much.  Tea is surely the perfect Paleo drink, naturally low carb and nothing artificial (if you're careful with the type you select).

I try to drink a lot of water, but there are times when it's great to have a hot drink.  One favourite is hot water with a slice of lemon or lime, but I've recently got I've finally ventured away from the mass produced tea bags, to a fantastic specialist tea shop near my office in Sydney.

I'd rather not have caffeine, but I have my tea fairly weak so I'm not too worried about it.  It's probably a worthwhile exchange for the antioxidants anyway.

I started off with Gunpowder tea and today I added a few more to my desk collection.  I thought I'd try “Glogg”, which is black tea, cinnamon, orange, almond, ginger (I seem to have ginger in everything at the moment), cloves & cardamon.  I got an organic Sri Lankan Ceylon tea, for my morning cup of tea.  Then, as I was paying I spotted “Japanese Lime” which is the most amazing combination of green tea, lemon, lime & lemon-grass.  I'll be trying that one as an iced tea too.

Exploring Herbal Infusions for a Paleo Lifestyle

Since diving into the world of loose-leaf teas and herbal infusions, I’ve found myself increasingly curious about the endless combinations available — many of which are perfectly suited to a Paleo lifestyle. While traditional black and green teas certainly have their place, it’s the herbal blends that truly shine when it comes to caffeine-free, flavour-packed options that align with ancestral health principles.

Some of the best Paleo-friendly herbal infusions include rooibos, peppermint, lemon balm, and chamomile. These are naturally caffeine-free, free from additives, and packed with beneficial compounds that support digestion, relaxation, and overall wellness.

Rooibos: The Red Bush Wonder

Rooibos tea, native to South Africa, has a naturally sweet and slightly nutty flavour. It’s rich in antioxidants such as aspalathin and quercetin and is completely caffeine-free, making it a great choice for evenings. Rooibos can be enjoyed hot or iced, with a slice of orange or cinnamon stick for extra warmth.

Digestive Teas After a Hearty Paleo Meal

After a rich meal — perhaps a slow-cooked lamb shoulder or a spicy paleo stew — a warm digestive tea can be the perfect end note. Peppermint tea is well-known for helping to soothe the stomach and reduce bloating, while fennel tea can support digestion and relieve cramps.

If you’re feeling creative, try making your own blend by steeping a teaspoon of fennel seeds with fresh mint leaves and a slice of fresh ginger.

The Ritual of Tea in a Busy World

One of the greatest advantages of incorporating tea into your Paleo lifestyle is the ritual itself. Taking a few moments to prepare loose-leaf tea, inhale the aromas, and sip slowly provides a calm, meditative break from the hustle of modern life. Whether it's a quiet morning start or a soothing evening wind-down, this ritual aligns beautifully with the idea of intentional living and connection to nature.

Make Your Own Paleo Iced Tea

When the Australian summer kicks in, iced tea becomes a wonderfully refreshing alternative to water or sugary soft drinks. Here's how to make a simple Paleo iced tea:

• Step 1: Brew 4 teaspoons of your chosen herbal or green tea in 1 litre of boiling water. Let steep for 5–7 minutes.
• Step 2: Strain and allow to cool completely.
• Step 3: Add slices of fresh lemon, mint leaves, or berries.
• Step 4: Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours and serve over ice.

Great combinations include:

• Hibiscus and rosehip with fresh raspberries
• Green tea and cucumber with lemon
• Chamomile with pear slices and cinnamon stick

Reading the Labels: Hidden Ingredients to Avoid

While loose-leaf tea is generally a safe bet, many mass-produced tea bags contain additives, flavour enhancers, or even hidden sugars — all things that have no place in a Paleo lifestyle. Watch out for terms like “natural flavouring,” which can be a catch-all phrase for highly processed ingredients.

Always opt for organic where possible, especially when it comes to citrus peel or other fruit-based teas, as these can carry pesticide residues if not organically grown.

Best Accessories for Brewing Loose-Leaf Tea

If you’re new to loose-leaf tea, getting set up properly makes the experience much easier and more enjoyable. Here are a few useful accessories:

• Stainless steel tea infuser or strainer — Ideal for single cups or small teapots.
• Glass teapot with removable infuser — Beautiful to look at and easy to clean.
• Reusable tea filter bags — Great for taking loose-leaf tea with you to work or when travelling.
• Electric kettle with temperature control — Essential for delicate green and white teas that need cooler water.

Spices That Turn Tea Into a Wellness Tonic

Many everyday kitchen spices double as powerful health boosters and can be added to tea for flavour and function. Try combining a pinch of these next time you brew:

• Turmeric — Anti-inflammatory and perfect with black pepper and coconut oil.
• Cinnamon — Helps regulate blood sugar and adds a lovely warming note.
• Clove — Strong antioxidant with antimicrobial properties, great in spiced blends.
• Star anise — Fragrant and helpful for digestion.

You can simmer these spices with your favourite tea or brew them on their own in a pot for 10–15 minutes for a homemade spiced tonic.

Brewing for the Whole Family

If you’re looking to get the whole family into healthier hot drinks, herbal teas can be a great introduction. Children often enjoy sweet-tasting rooibos or blends with apple, cinnamon, or chamomile. Serve in fun mugs or let them pick their own blend from your tea selection — it makes the experience more inviting.

Keeping a Paleo Pantry Tea-Friendly

One small shelf in your pantry can become a treasure trove of options if you organise it well. Store loose-leaf teas in airtight glass jars, grouped by base type (herbal, green, black), and keep a small jar of your favourite add-ins — like dried rose petals, ginger slices, or cinnamon bark — nearby for quick blending.

It’s also helpful to keep a flask ready for tea on-the-go, especially if you’re avoiding the temptation of café drinks that don’t align with your Paleo principles.

Final Sip

The world of tea is far more expansive than many of us realise — and for those of us following a Paleo lifestyle, it opens up new rituals and flavours that complement our values. From calming bedtime chamomile to a zesty citrus green iced tea on a hot day, there’s a brew for every moment.

If you haven’t already, take a stroll to your local tea shop or browse an organic supplier online and experiment with a few new blends. You might be surprised how quickly tea becomes one of your favourite parts of your Paleo routine.

What is your Paleo drink of choice?