Earl Grey — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips

Earl Grey tea is distinguished by its aromatic blend of black tea with bergamot oil. The leaves should be uniform and fragrant, emitting a distinct citrus scent. Check the freshness by the intensity of the aroma when you open the packet.

Avoid Earl Grey that has a stale or muted smell, as it suggests the essential oils have dissipated. Properly stored Earl Grey should offer a bright, clean taste with a pronounced bergamot flavor.

Earl Grey tea should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. A pantry or cupboard is ideal to preserve its aroma and flavor. Properly stored, Earl Grey tea can last up to a year.

Exposure to light and moisture can cause the tea to lose its potency. It’s best to avoid storing it near strong-smelling items. Keeping the container sealed tightly helps maintain its delicate flavor and freshness.

Earl Grey tea can last for 6-12 months when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. For the best flavor, consume it within these time frames. Proper storage away from light, heat, and moisture is essential to maintain its quality.

Leftover Earl Grey tea can be used in a variety of culinary and non-culinary ways. In the kitchen, Earl Grey’s distinctive bergamot flavor can be used to infuse desserts such as cakes, cookies, or custards. Brewed Earl Grey tea can also be used as a poaching liquid for fruits or as a flavor base for syrups and glazes. Earl Grey is also delightful when added to smoothies or used to flavor ice cream or sorbet.

Beyond cooking, Earl Grey tea has several practical uses. The used tea leaves or cooled tea can be applied as a natural toner for the skin, helping to tighten pores and reduce puffiness. Earl Grey tea can also be used to add a subtle fragrance to homemade potpourri or sachets. Additionally, the brewed tea can be used as a natural hair rinse to add shine and subtly enhance the color of dark hair. Earl Grey tea bags can also be used to freshen up shoes or drawers by placing the dried, used tea bags inside to absorb odors.

Earl Grey tea is rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which support heart health by improving circulation and reducing cholesterol levels. Its caffeine content can enhance brain function, improving focus and alertness. The bergamot oil in Earl Grey tea may also support digestive health by aiding digestion and reducing bloating. Additionally, its antioxidants may support immune health by protecting against oxidative stress.