10 Best Herbal Tea Samplers in 2022 (Tea Sommelier-Reviewed)
While true teas such as green tea, oolong tea, and black tea are made from the leaves of the camellia sinensis tea plant, herbal teas are formed purely from herbs, dried fruits, spices, and dried flowers. These herbal teas come in a wide range of flavors and offer many health benefits, too! If you're new to herbal teas and don't know which one to try, it's a good idea to purchase an herbal tea sampler instead of going for a specific type.
Tea Forte's Herbal Retreat is our favorite, as it comes with five flavorful and unique loose leaf teas. Want more options? There are nine other tea samplers on our list for you to check out. We also compiled a buying guide at the end, reviewed by a certified tea sommelier, to give you some tips in choosing the best herbal tea sampler for you!
Kate Hesser is a certified tea sommelier, tea taster, blogger, and brand collaborator. She provides event and restaurant menu consulting, and personalized tasting experiences for in-home gatherings and office retreats. She believes every tea is made with pride and has something unique to show us!
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How to Choose Herbal Tea Samplers
When choosing an herbal tea sampler, make sure to consider factors such as the type of teas as well as their flavors. In this buying guide, we will tell you all you need to know in order to choose the right herbal tea sampler for you! Note that for the sake of this article, we are defining "herbal teas" as "teas that do not contain the plant camellia sinensis", which can also be called tisanes or herbal infusions.
Take Into Account the Theme of the Tea Sampler
Herbal tea samplers can include from a few to dozens of varieties but usually have a general theme. Some samplers contain blends that help you feel relaxed and sleep better, while some others claim to support digestion. There are other assortments that claim to soothe cold symptoms and improve your immune system.
So if you're having trouble falling asleep or suffering from a lot of stress, look for a sampler with teas like chamomile and lavender, as they can promote relaxation and induce sleep. And if you're looking for something that can keep you warm, consider an assortment of teas such as ginger and cinnamon.
Try Different Tea Flavors or Go for a Specific One
There are many tea samplers that focus on specific flavors. You can find tea collections centered around fruits and berries, like Stash's Herbal Tea Sampler and Celestial Seasonings' Herbal Tea Variety Bundle. Although those teas contain herbs and flowers as well, their fruity flavors are much more pronounced.
Or, consider a sampler with different combinations of flowers and fruits, like chamomile and lavender, peach and chamomile, and chamomile and dandelion. Teas that contain a lot of herbs like peppermint tend to be refreshing, while blends that include spices and roots such as turmeric and ginger are warming and pungent.
If you know what you like, you can pick a variety pack that veers toward one specific flavor, like citrus, fruity, floral, or tangy. But if you don't have any taste preferences and just want to explore different kinds of teas, then go for an assortment with unique varieties.
Decide Between Tea Bags and Loose-Leaf Teas
Teas usually come in two forms: loose-leaf teas or tea bags. In order to choose a type that works for you, take into account their pros and cons!
For Convenience, Opt for Tea Bags
Tea bags usually contain cut and broken leaves and pieces of herbs, which can cause them to lose most of their essential oils and aromas. So, once brewed, they release more tannins and might give you a slightly bitter, astringent brew.
Also, the small size and flat shape of regular tea bags don't allow for full expansion of the herbs, oftentimes resulting in a less flavorful brew. Try to go for pyramid tea bags instead, as they allow more room for the leaves to fully unfold and hot water to flow around the herbs.
While it's true that tea bags may deliver a less intense and bold taste, they're convenient to use. You only need a mug and hot water to brew the tea. And the time of infusion can be pretty short, ranging from just two to four minutes.
Another thing to pay attention to is the material of the tea bags. Tea bags made with polypropylene can release microplastics into the tea, possibly imposing harmful effects on your digestive system. Meanwhile, paper tea bags bleached with chlorine can release dioxin, a toxic chemical that can cause hormonal problems.
To avoid these issues, choose tea bags that are bleached with oxygen, as they don't generate any harmful chemicals like dioxin. Bags made of plant-based materials such as hemp and cornsilk are not only safe for your health, but they're eco-friendly, too!
There is a third option - pyramid tea sachets. This new technology and design creates a more spacious area for the leaves and herbs to expand and also ensures a consistent blend of all of the flavorful elements. It is really the best of both worlds - more spacious and flavorful than a tea bag and more consistent-tasting than you would get from taking your own scoop of the loose leaves.
With Loose Leaf Teas, You'll Get a Bold, Deep Flavor
With loose-leaf tea, you will be able to achieve a strong and fresh brew. This is because loose-leaf tea is made up of larger leaves, buds, and roots that are only minimally processed and still have more of their essential oils intact. Therefore, this type of herb tea often offers you a fuller and more robust flavor than a bagged tea.
Brewing loose-leaf tea requires extra equipment like a teapot and infuser or strainer, and you have to measure out the amount yourself. But for many people, the brewing process is pretty relaxing. You can adjust the amount of tea leaves to get a milder or stronger brew, too.
You can also find whole-leaf teas that are pre-portioned into single-serving pouches as well. They can be a bit expensive but are just as convenient to prepare as regular tea bags, yet they offer the flavor benefits of loose-leaf.
With loose-leaf blends, it is important to shake the container regularly and scoop portions carefully to be sure you have a consistent distribution of the ingredients.
To Keep the Tea Fresh, Make Sure the Packaging Is Airtight
Proper storage is instrumental to the quality, flavor, and shelf life of your tea. If exposed to moisture, air, or heat, your herbal blend might lose its flavors and fragrances. Therefore, pay attention to the packaging and make sure that it can preserve the freshness of the tea.
If you intend to purchase tea bags, we suggest choosing bags wrapped in foil. Foil is highly heat-resistant and can keep the tea fresh for a long time.
When it comes to loose-leaf tea, go for an airtight resealable bag. If the bag is not resealable, you might want to put the tea in an airtight container to preserve its freshness.
Consider Brands Committed to Sustainability
There are some ethical issues associated with the tea industry, including exploitation of farmers, child labor, low wages, water shortages, and environmental pollution. Tea plantations are also facing the threats of climate change and the impacts of deforestation and soil erosion.
To protect the living conditions of workers and the environment, many brands are committed to sustainability. For example, Tiesta Tea created the Tiesta Tea Foundation to support those facing economic hardship. Many companies also become certified B corporations and are dedicated to using their profits for good causes.
The Ethical Tea Partnership (https://www.ethicalteapartnership.org/) and The Rainforest Alliance (https://www.rainforest-alliance.org/impact/) as two organizations that support and monitor the tea industry.
10 Best Herbal Tea Samplers Ranking
| Products | Image | Click to purchase | Popularity | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Herbal Retreat Tea Forte |  | No.1 | |
2 | Summer Taste Fruit Tea Set Acorus |  | No.2 | |
3 | Herbalist Ahmad Tea |  | No.3 | |
4 | Herbal Tea Sampler｜6 pack Celestial Seasonings |  | No.4 | |
5 | Relaxer Sampler Dry Flight Tiesta Tea |  | No.5 | |
6 | Assorted Herbal Teas｜4 pack Bigelow |  | Currently unavailable | No.6 |
7 | Herbs Support Collection Gift Box Pukka |  | No.7 | |
8 | Herbal Tea Bags With Honey Sticks Twinings |  | No.8 | |
9 | Tea Bag Sampler Traditional Medicinals |  | No.9 | |
10 | Roasted Herbal Tea Sampler Teeccino |  | No.10 |
This tea assortment contains five tea blends that combine different types of fruits, flowers, and herbs. If you are looking for a pick-me-up, try out Mojito Marmalade, which features bright notes of citrus and refreshing spearmint.
Cherry Cosmo is another interesting blend that can lift your mood with hibiscus and slightly tangy rose hips. What's more, all tea blends are pre-portioned into pyramid tea infusers that provide enough room for the teas to fully unfold.
For a few buyers, the teas are too sour. But most rave about the calming and flavorful taste and fragrance of these teas. They also love the roomy tea pouches and say the small green leaf at the top of the pouches make them look adorable and creative. According to many, this tea set is a great gift for tea lovers thanks to its packaging.
Acorus' tea collection includes six of their most famous herbal teas brimming with fruit flavor. From the sweet, slightly tangy Wild Strawberries to the subtly sweet Apples and Cinnamon tea and the bright and citrusy Mint and Citrus Fruit, each of the teas delivers a satisfying and invigorating flavor.
You can add in some fresh fruit or mix different flavors together to create different blends. However, some buyers note that the teas are not too strong, so use two bags if you prefer a bold cup of tea.
Still, the majority praise the fruity, refreshing, and smooth flavor of the teas, further commenting that the fruity tastes are really pronounced. For many reviewers, the teas are great both hot and cold. Since the teas are naturally sweet, reviewers don't feel the need to add sweeteners like sugar or honey.
Ahmad Tea's Herbalist offers six flavorful fruit, berry, and flower blends. There is refreshing and citrusy peppermint and lemon tea to wake up your senses. If you need something soothing, give chamomile and lemongrass tea a try.
The set also includes detox tea, which boasts a blend of ginger, peppermint, birch, and dandelion to support the kidneys and reduce inflammation. All the tea bags are wrapped in foil to preserve the fresh and bold flavors of the teas.
Some found certain flavors too medicinal, but most reviewers say all the teas are delightful, fruity, and not too overwhelming. Some buyers even say that the soothing taste of the teas help alleviate their cold and sore throat. The nice packaging makes this tea set a great gift, too.
Celestial Seasonings Herbal Tea Sampler ｜ 6 pack
The Celestial Seasonings Herbal Tea Sampler offers a delightful assortment of five distinct herbal teas, each crafted to provide a unique and flavorful experience. This sampler includes classics like Sleepytime®, Chamomile, Lemon Zinger®, Peppermint, and Honey Vanilla Chamomile, ensuring there's a blend for every mood and moment. Whether you're looking to unwind with a calming cup of Sleepytime® or invigorate your senses with the zesty Lemon Zinger®, this collection has something to suit every palate and need. Each tea is naturally caffeine-free, making it perfect for any time of day or night.
Celestial Seasonings is dedicated to using the finest ingredients, sourcing high-quality herbs, fruits, and botanicals from around the world. The teas in this sampler are blended without any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, ensuring a pure and wholesome tea-drinking experience. Packaged in eco-friendly boxes, this sampler reflects Celestial Seasonings' commitment to environmental sustainability. Explore the rich and varied flavors of the Celestial Seasonings Herbal Tea Sampler and discover the perfect blend to enhance your well-being and bring a touch of serenity to your day.
Tiesta TeaRelaxer Sampler Dry Flight
This variety pack from Tiesta Tea is centered around soothing herbals that can relax your mind and body. There is the classic combination of lavender and chamomile. But there are also teas with unique spins such as Cocoa Mint Chill, which combines peppermint with chocolate for a smooth, rich, and refreshing flavor.
Most reviewers compliment the teas' delightful taste and aroma that help them relax. Many especially love the Nutty Almond Cream tea, praising the slightly sweet and creamy flavor with nutty notes. They say some of the blends make great iced tea, too.
Bigelow is a famous company that has been making tea since 1945. This tea sample includes six of their delicious herbal teas that can help you relax better and support your health.
For example, Sweet Dreams and Cozy Chamomile can soothe your mind after a long day of work. The lemon tea boasts a combination of lemongrass, lemon peel, and peppermint, with added vitamin C.
The majority love the calming and smooth taste of the teas and also love their health benefits. They also appreciate that each tea bag is individually wrapped in foil to maintain freshness. They say this sampler has helped them find their favorites.
PukkaHerbs Support Collection Gift Box
This tea sampler from Pukka offers a wide variety of flavors, from pungent and earthy Three Ginger to refreshing and bright Blackcurrant Beauty.
It's worth nothing that all the teas contain spices, herbs, and fruits that can support your overall health. Elderberry and Echinacea may reduce symptoms of a cold. Lemon, Ginger and Manuka Honey are said to boost your immune system.
Some reviewers complain that there's a strong licorice root flavor in all the teas. Yet, most buyers are happy with their fragrance and rich, full-bodied taste. They also love the great relaxing effects and say that they help ease cold symptoms.
Twinings Herbal Tea Bags With Honey Sticks
Twinings, a well-known UK tea brand, has been creating teas since 1706. This variety pack brings you 13 of their famous herbal tea flavors.
For something simple, you can try rooibos red tea, peppermint, or chamomile. There are also more complex concoctions blended from different herbs, flowers, and fruits like berries, oranges, vanilla, ginger and cinnamon.
Although a couple of reviewers find the teas to be a bit weak, most praise the variety of teas and say all the flavors are delicious. They also appreciate the honey sticks included in the package, as they add some natural sweetness to the teas and are convenient to use, too.
Traditional Medicinals' tea assortment comes in 40 different flavors to support your overall wellness. There are Ginger Aid and Gas Relief to support your digestive system, Throat Coat and Echinacea Plus to relieve cold symptoms, and Chamomile and Stress Ease to calm your mind.
You can also find teas that help you detox and lose weight in this variety pack! What's more, all the teas are wrapped in foil to maintain freshness.
Some buyers complain about not receiving 40 different flavors as advertised. Others caution the "gift box" is not as nice as it sounds. Nevertheless, most buyers say the teas taste great. Reviewers also like being able to try all the different teas to find their favorites.
TeeccinoRoasted Herbal Tea Sampler
If you're looking for a coffee alternative, consider this roasted herbal tea sampler! All the teas brew rich and strong with a roasted flavor. The blends include French chicory, which has a nutty, woody, and warm flavor resembling that of coffee. The addition of carob, barley and ramon seeds give the tea earthy and chocolaty notes.
In the mood for a strong cup of caffeine-free tea to kick-start your day? Brew yourself either Maca Chocolate or French Roast. Meanwhile, Hazelnut and Vanilla Nut have a milder flavor that's similar to a medium roast.
Some buyers think that it's not a worthy competitor to coffee. Nonetheless, many who want to cut back on coffee are impressed with how these teas taste, smell and look. While they're great on their own, many also enjoy adding sweetener and cream to the teas.
Frequently Asked Questions
In addition to reviewing and commenting on our buying guide, Kate also took the time to answer some commonly asked questions about herbal teas.
What are some benefits of herbal tea?
"The most common benefits of most herbal teas are hydration and relaxation," Kate says. "Many people enjoy a hot beverage in the afternoon or evening but want to avoid caffeine, so an herbal infusion is a great option.
You should look closely at the ingredients and make sure you understand the side effects of some of the trendier "superfood" herbs. For example, St. John's Wort can make one more susceptible to sunburn, and Tulsi or Holy Basil can impact the effectiveness of SSRIs."
How does herbal tea help with weight loss?
Kate explains, "Staying hydrated and choosing to drink clear, unsweetened liquids over unnecessary snacks and sugary drinks tends to help with weight loss. Herbal teas that include sweet ingredients such as fruits, berries, or hibiscus can satisfy a sweet tooth by finishing a meal with an alternative to a dessert and keep you from looking for cookies or candy during an afternoon slump."
Is herbal tea safe during pregnancy?
"While your most common herbal teas will be considered safe, there are some herbs, such as chamomile, that some believe have an impact on pregnancy and labor," Kate says. "It's important to check with your doctor if you are unsure."
Find Your Cup of Tea
Besides herbal teas, there are many other kinds of tea that are equally delicious and can bring you a lot of health benefits. Check out our favorites below!
In Collaboration With Certified Tea Sommelier Kate Hesser
This expert reviewed the contents of the buying guide for accuracy and provided factual corrections when necessary, as well as extra tips and advice. They did not participate in the product selection process, nor are they affiliated with any of our choices unless explicitly stated so.
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
