Brewing Instructions – Getting Started

 

The following instructions are for brewing one dry herb packet (two are included in your tea box).

If you would like to brew both packets at once, simply double the amount of water and follow the same instructions below

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Using ONE packet of herbs (two are included in your tea box):

One dry essiac packet
(1) 2-gal. pot (or larger) 
(1) straining method (tea ball, etc.  DO NOT USE CHEESECLOTH! - it will trap the mucus property of the slippery elm bark)
(1) funnel
Glass bottles + caps
Filtered water  (filtered, purified or distilled are fine.  Avoid using tap water - it has chemicals in it).

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Step 1: Put Water into Pot

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Put 12 cups (3 quarts) of water in a 1-gallon (or larger) pot when using the one herb packet.  If brewing both packets at the same time, use 24 cups (6 quarts) of water and a larger pot.

 

For best results, use purified, distilled, or filtered water, as tap water often contains minerals that may affect the tea’s final composition. Water filtered through a system such as a Brita or similar is acceptable.

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Step 2: Add the Herbs

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Cut open the tea packet(s) and empty the herbs into a tea ball or directly into the pot.

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• If using a tea ball, place the herbs inside and carefully drop it into the water.

• If not using a tea ball, add the herbs directly to the water to free-float (you will need to strain them later).

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Ensure all herbs are fully submerged by gently pressing them down with a spoon or spatula.

  

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Step 3: Simmer & Steep

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1. Turn the heat on and bring the tea to a gentle simmer for 8–10 minutes with the lid on. Be careful to avoid a hard boil.  Simmering involves low, steady heat causing small, infrequent bubbles to rise to the surface.

2. After simmering, turn off the heat and allow the tea to steep for 10–12 hours with the lid on.

3. Make sure all burners are completely turned off during the steeping process.

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Step 4: Prepare for Bottling

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After steeping, arrange your clean glass bottles in a row—preferably in a sink or another area that can handle possible spillage, such as a plastic tub or over flattened paper towels.

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Make sure all bottles are stable and positioned securely to prevent tipping while pouring.

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Step 5: Set Up Your Supplies

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Lay out all of your supplies before you begin bottling.

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• Place your bottle caps nearby for quick and easy sealing

• Insert your funnel (if using) into the first bottle

• If using a funnel with a strainer, ensure the strainer is in place (optional if you used a tea ball)

• Keep a pair of oven mitts close to the pot for safe handling

• If using a colander, second pot, or any additional tools, position them next to your main pot

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Having everything prepared will make the bottling process smoother and more efficient.

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Step 6: Reheat the Tea

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Turn the heat on high and bring the tea back to a brief, hard boil. Then turn the heat off.

Using a food-grade thermometer, ensure the temperature reaches 180°F or above before proceeding.

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Carefully lift your pot using mitts and pour the tea into your containers. Cap immediately.

 

Proper bottling requires the tea to be at least 180°F before capping. If bottled correctly at this temperature, the sealed bottles do not need to be refrigerated until after opening.

 

If you are unsure of the temperature at the time of bottling, it is recommended to store your tea in the refrigerator.

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If the tea spoils, you will notice “floaties” forming on the top only (not at the bottom of the bottle).

 

This typically occurs 4–6 weeks after the bottle is first opened, and may result from:

 

• Using non-sterilized containers

• Bottling at temperatures below 180°F

• Not refrigerating properly after opening

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Proper handling and storage will help maintain freshness and quality.

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To ensure the purity and safety of your tea, it's crucial to properly sterilize your glass bottles.

Follow these steps for effective sterilization:

 

Wash Thoroughly

 

Begin by washing your glass bottles with warm soapy water and a bottle brush to remove any residues. Make sure to rinse them thoroughly to eliminate any soap traces.

 

Boil the Bottles or Use a Chlorine Bleach Bath

 

If you would like to use the boiling method, place the cleaned glass bottles in a large pot, ensuring they are fully submerged in water. Bring the water to a boil and let the bottles gently boil for at least 10 minutes. This process will kill any bacteria or microorganisms. Using tongs or a bottle lifter, carefully remove the hot bottles from the boiling water and place them on a clean, dry surface. It's best to use a rack or a clean towel. Allow them to air dry completely.

 

If you choose the chlorine bath soaking method, use one tablespoon of unscented liquid chlorine bleach mixed with one gallon of water. Submerge the clean bottles in the solution for at least two minutes, ensuring they are completely filled and soaked. Allow the bottles to air dry on a surface, ensuring they are ready for safe use.

 

Sterilize Lids and Accessories

 

Don't forget to sterilize the bottle lids and any other accessories you will use. You can either boil them along with the bottles or immerse them in a mixture of water and a sterilizing solution.

 

Storage

 

Once dry, avoid touching the interior of the bottles and lids to prevent re-contamination. Store them upside down on a clean surface until you are ready to use them for your essiac tea. By following these steps, you'll ensure that your glass bottles are properly sterilized.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Feel free to send me a message at anursestea@gmail.com (quickest way) if you have any questions at all.  There are no dumb questions.  

Thank you and enjoy!  Chris