How to Make Chaga Tea
For centuries people around the world have been drinking Chaga tea for its many health benefits. Unfortunately, there is much conflicting information out there on how to make Chaga tea. From brew times, to amounts, to cooling time - you’ll find lots of ‘he said, she said’ out there.
For Hot Tea
Bring 12 cups of water almost to boiling point (175 degrees or 80 C.) Avoid "boiling" it, but allow it to "steep" and be hot enough. Look for wisps of steam coming off the top, rather than boiling bubbles.
Turn down to low and add one of the following:
- 1 Chaga tea gag or a 1/4 cup tea grind and steep approx. 5-8 hrs.
- 1/2 cup Chaga chunks steep for 6-8 hrs.
- 1-Chaga ThermO Tea bag per 36 oz. vacuum bottle (let steep overnight).
*Our "Bulk" Chaga contains larger chunks - so use about (20g) or 3 to 5 larger pieces and steep 8-12 hrs.
If you’re using chunks or grind, strain it, then enjoy.
For Iced Chaga Tea
Brew your tea as above, then let it cool in the fridge for a few hours.
Add some freshly squeezed lemon and natural honey or maple syrup for a little added flavour and sweetness, and keep refridgerated.
You can also add a fresh sprig of mint for an energy boost or grated cinnamon.
Iced tea should be used within 2 weeks.
Expert Tips: Try mixing Chaga tea half and half with beer for a refreshing drink! Or make Chaga ice cubes and add them to your favorite summer drinks or smoothies. Making ice cubes is also a great way to store it for months ahead of time, and it’s ready for use when you are!
How to Make Chaga Tea Tips
Here are a few additional things to keep in mind when it comes to your tea:
- Longer brew times yield a stronger tea, so get to know your desired strength and adjust steep times accordingly.
- You can do this on the stovetop if you like, but a crockpot on the lowest setting works well too.
- Smaller Chaga particles (grind vs. big Chunks) tend to brew more quickly. Larger chunks require more brew time.
- You can make another 12 cup pot of tea with that same Chaga! Some people even brew a third time.
- Once you brew your first pot of tea, you can either brew another 12 cup pot immediately using the same Chaga or you can freeze that Chaga until you’re ready to brew your second pot. We use our Tea Grind and Chunks twice.
Expert Tip: If you're not sensitive to "scents," don't throw out those used up Chaga Chunks! Dry them out and burn them as incense! The aroma of burning Chaga is truly amazing!
We're not in the business of challenging or debating, seriously. It's simple: Chaga is good for you. It’s not "cultured" or man-made. Our Chaga is a 100% natural and pure product from Mother Nature, the woods, the wilderness, the forest. It’s not from big box store shelves, nor from cultivated processes.
Keep your own health in mind and try different things/recipes with the Chaga until it's right for you!