What to look for when purchasing herbal teas.

Chamomile flower comparisons test.

It’s so important to find a good supplier when looking to purchase medicinal quality herbs and flowers. Recently I bought chamomile from two different businesses for testing and this is what I’ve found!

To start, I’ll share similarities.

1. Both had country of origin: Egypt

2. Both say Organic but only one is certified.

3. They were both similar in price but the certified organic was a little cheaper bought in bulk.

The differences.

1. Certified organic (A) was “loose leaf” sealed in a sunlight protected bag of aluminium inside and Kraft paper outside. The colour was a bright rich yellow, and had a lot of bright white petals. The buds are also noticeably large. The aroma was very strong with a scent of sweet honey.

In tea form, it’s was also strong in aroma and flavour, and the colour was equally deep yellow.

2. Labeled but not certified organic (B) came in a compressed air tight transparent plastic package. The flowers had browned and the buds small, with not many white petals. The aroma was very mild, not sweet.

In tea form, it is light in flavour, almost like a diluted version of (A). The colour is also lighter than (A).

The quality of these teas was depended on taste, smell and appearance. I can’t say if the growing conditions of the certified organic or labelled organic is better for sure but I did think that I could taste the freshness of the herbs, its impact on its processing, how it was dried, handled and packaged. And how much all these factors can effect the overall end product. Its also note worthy to know that even if the expiry on the product says its been freshly packaged and won’t expire for another year or more time, that it doesn’t mean the flower was at its peak bloom at processing. You can definitely taste, smell and see the differences. Just something to chew on and wanted to share. Make sure you know what your getting! 🌞🌺 Have a great day!