6 Original Ways to Recycle Your Brewed Tea Leaves

The second most consumed beverage in the world after water, tea is consumed by two-thirds of the population. Packed with benefits, did you know you can reuse the leaves after brewing?

Discover our 6 tips for giving your favorite drink a second life and enjoying all its benefits.

1/ An anti-dark circle eye mask

For a fatigue-relieving effect around the eyes, create a mask using white tea leaves. White tea leaves have many beneficial properties for the skin, including an action against dark circles and fatigue. In fact, white tea helps reduce dark circles under the eyes due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Rich in polyphenols, it stimulates microcirculation, which improves the appearance and pigmentation of the skin under the eyes.

How do I make my anti-dark circle eye mask?

To use this remedy, brew white tea leaves and quickly steep them in cold water, then apply them to your eyes. Leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse.

NB: If you have cotton tea bags, use them to put the fresh, infused tea leaves into.

2/ A soothing treatment against bites and itching

White tea contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help soothe irritated skin, especially from bites. It was after receiving an eyelid sting that Eva Corfmat, founder of Léonia, discovered the powerful properties of white tea . The tannins in white tea reduce inflammation and calm itching.

How do I make my homemade soothing treatment?

Apply fresh, moist White Tea leaves directly to the affected area. Leave on for about ten minutes to enjoy its soothing effects.

3/ A hair detangler

White tea leaves are also very beneficial for hair.

Indeed, white tea leaves, composed of numerous nutrients and antioxidants, strengthen and nourish hair. The hair is also softer and easier to style.

How do I make my own homemade detangler?

Infuse your white tea leaves and let them cool. At room temperature, rinse your hair with the infusion.

4/ A natural self-tanner

White tea leaves are rich in tannins, a plant-based substance with natural coloring properties.

How to make your own natural self-tanner?

To make a self-tanning treatment, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of brewed tea leaves

• ¼ cup olive oil

• ¼ cup lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon of brown sugar

• In a bowl, mix your brewed and strained tea leaves with olive oil, lemon juice, and brown sugar.

• Mix until the sugar is dissolved.

• Massage your self-tanning product into your skin. Leave it on for 15 minutes.

• Rinse with cold water

This 100% natural treatment will help you achieve a tanned and luminous complexion while nourishing the skin.

5/ Fertilizer for your green plants or vegetable garden

Tea is an excellent fertilizer for both indoor and outdoor gardens. Tea leaves contain nutrients such as nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus, which nourish plants and promote healthy growth.

In addition, the antifungal properties of tea prevent the proliferation of harmful fungi, which is beneficial for plants and their proper development.

However, it is important to choose an organic tea in order to protect the plants from all chemicals.

6/ A homemade potpourri

Fragrant white tea leaves make a great addition to homemade potpourri. Once dried, they can also serve as a base for your creative flower pot projects. The scent of dried white tea is light and floral, similar to cherry blossom. White tea is often prized for its mild fragrance and delicate aroma.

How to make potpourri?

1. Prepare a small amount of white tea and let it steep until strong and aromatic.
2. Remove the tea leaves from the hot water and place them on a paper towel to dry. Make sure they are completely dry before using.
3. Blend the dried tea leaves with spices or dried herbs of your choice, such as cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, or lavender.
4. Place the mixture in a small fabric bag or decorative bowl to scent your home.

Remember to store your potpourri in a cool, dry place to help it last longer.