To make mulberry tea, steep dried mulberry leaves in hot water for 5-10 minutes, then strain and enjoy for its potential health benefits.
Mulberry tea offers a delicious way to enjoy the benefits of this versatile plant. Whether using fresh or dried leaves, this herbal tea provides a smooth, slightly sweet flavor similar to green tea with subtle berry undertones. Learn how to harvest, prepare, and brew perfect mulberry tea every time.
Mulberry Tea Basics
Mulberry trees (Morus species) produce edible leaves that make excellent tea. The white mulberry (Morus alba) is most commonly used, but red and black varieties also work well. This caffeine-free herbal tea has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
Health Benefits
Mulberry leaf tea may help:
- Support healthy blood sugar levels
- Provide antioxidants
- Aid digestion
- Boost immune function
Harvesting Mulberry Leaves
For best results:
When to Pick
Harvest mature leaves in late spring or early summer. Young leaves may contain higher levels of certain compounds.
How to Select
Choose healthy, unblemished leaves from pesticide-free trees. Avoid leaves with dark spots or signs of insect damage.
Drying Mulberry Leaves
Proper drying preserves flavor and nutrients:
Air Drying Method
- Rinse leaves and pat dry
- Spread in single layer on screens
- Place in warm, dry area with good airflow
- Turn leaves daily for even drying
- Store when completely dry (1-2 weeks)
Dehydrator Method
- Set dehydrator to 135°F (57°C)
- Dry for 3-8 hours until crisp
- Check frequently to prevent over-drying
Brewing Mulberry Tea
Both fresh and dried leaves make excellent tea:
Fresh Leaf Tea
- Rinse 5-6 fresh leaves per cup
- Bring water to boil, then remove from heat
- Steep leaves for 5-7 minutes
- Strain and enjoy
Dried Leaf Tea
| Servings | Tea Amount | Water |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 tablespoon | 1 cup |
| 2 | 2 tablespoons | 2 cups |
Tea Variations
Customize your mulberry tea:
Iced Mulberry Tea
Brew double-strength tea, then pour over ice. Add lemon slices for refreshment.
Enhanced Flavors
- Add honey or maple syrup to sweeten
- Mix with fresh lemon juice for tang
- Combine with mint leaves for freshness
Storage Tips
Preserve your mulberry tea properly:
Dried Leaves
Store in airtight containers away from light and heat. Properly dried leaves last up to 2 years.
Prepared Tea
Refrigerate brewed tea for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is mulberry tea safe?
Yes, when made properly from edible Morus species. Those with allergies should exercise caution.
Can I use mulberry fruit?
Yes! Dried mulberries make a delicious tea. Try combining with leaves for extra flavor.
Where can I find mulberry leaves?
Harvest from your own tree or purchase dried leaves from specialty tea shops. For juicing other ingredients, check out the best juicer for vegetables and leafy greens.
For more information on herbal preparations, see this study on medicinal plants from the National Institutes of Health.
