While you’re probably more familiar with popular herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint, fig leaf tea is a lesser-known herbal infusion that deserves attention. Made from the leaves of the fig tree, this tea offers a mild, earthy flavor with subtle notes of coconut, date, and vanilla.
If you’ve got a fig tree, now is the perfect time of year to snip a few fresh green leaves as they emerge for the spring. If you don’t, find locally-sourced organic ingredients with our directorio! Whether you want a relaxing evening drink or a creative addition to your loose tea collection, fig leaf tea is a wonderful option to explore.
Making DIY Organic Fig Leaf Tea
Choose fresh, healthy, bright green leaves when possible. Younger leaves are more tender and less bitter than older leaves, although leaves of all ages are edible.
While you can use leaves right off the tree, drying the leaves first allows them to store longer and develop a deeper flavor. You can use an herb dehydrator if you’ve got one, but fig leaves dry easily even without special equipment.
The preparation is simple:
- Rinse fresh fig leaves in cold water
- Cut leaves into strips using food scissors (or tear them into smaller pieces by hand)
- Spread leaves onto plates, drying racks, or baking sheets
- Allow them to air dry in a warm, well-ventilated space for 3–5 days. (Alternatively, you can dry them in the oven at a very low temperature—around 170°F / 75°C; for 1–2 hours.)
When fully dried, the leaves should feel crisp and brittle. Store them in an airtight jar away from light and moisture.
Pair With Other Organic Teas
While fig leaf tea is a lovely taste on its own, it especially shines when blended with other organic loose-leaf teas. Experiment with:
- Fig Leaf and Rooibos (warm, naturally sweet, tropical notes)
- Fig Leaf and Green Tea (refreshing, energizing, light almond notes)
- Fig Leaf and Chamomile (relaxing, smooth, floral)
- Fig Leaf and Mint (crisp, herbal, lightly sweet)
- Fig Leaf and Black Tea (full-bodied, robust, coconutty)
Why Organic Tea is Important
A recent report by The Organic Center highlights the benefits of spices and teas when produced according to USDA organic standards. The science upholds organic methods as being beneficial to worker safety and the social equity and economic prosperity of those involved in their production, as well as being directly beneficial to consumers.
As highlighted in the report, the production of organic spices, herbs, and teas:
- Lowers the likelihood of consuming harmful pesticide residues, which can become more concentrated in dried products.
- Decreases workers’ occupational exposure to hazardous pesticides commonly used in conventional farming.
- Can raise the concentration of antioxidants in organic spices, herbs, and teas.
- Can improve farmers’ livelihoods by boosting income through price premiums for organic products.
- Helps reduce impacts of climate change mitigation by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing carbon capture, and limiting the uptake of heavy metals.
Enjoy the Taste of Springtime Year-Round
Organic DIY fig leaf tea is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients from nature can create a unique and enjoyable experience. With their gentle flavor and subtle sweetness, organic fig leaves offer a refreshing alternative to more common herbal infusions.
Blending dried organic fig leaves with other organic loose teas opens endless possibilities for experimentation. Whether combined with green tea, chamomile, or other flavors, fig leaf tea can become a versatile addition to your tea routine. Let us know if you find a favorite combination!
