For this article alone, we tested more than 70 teas — closer to 150 if you include all the teas tested leading up to this culminating story. (Getty Creative)
Packed with health benefits and endless flavor possibilities, it's no wonder tea is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, second only to water. Danielle VenHuizen, a Seattle dietitian and owner of Food Sense Nutrition, explains that the best teas are packed with beneficial compounds, including L-theanine, polyphenols and various phytochemicals that may support digestion, help manage blood pressure and even promote better sleep.
The health benefits provided by tea depend on the type of tea you're drinking, explains VenHuizen. Hibiscus tea, for example, may be helpful for lowering blood pressure, and ginger tea may help soothe indigestion and could have benefits for healthy aging. VenHuizen adds that chamomile tea, while known for its calming properties, may also fight bloating and ease digestion.
Looking for a tea with a range of benefits? Green tea is a top choice thanks to its high antioxidant content. Specifically, green tea contains epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) — a powerful compound with potent anti-inflammatory effects. While research is ongoing, EGCG may support brain health and protect against chronic diseases like cancer. And don't forget white and black tea, both of which also contain antioxidants and can be a less jittery way to get a moderate dose of caffeine when compared with a morning cup of coffee.
With so many options, how do you choose which tea to buy? That's where we come in! To find the best teas of 2025, we consulted three registered dietitians, a certified herbalist and a medical doctor to learn about the health benefits of different types of tea. We then tested over 70 teas from 18 different brands, evaluating each tea on its taste, quality and overall value. Whether you're looking to relax, energize or give your immune system a little boost, we compiled a list of the top teas worth adding to your collection.
A note on supplements
Some of the products included on this list are dietary supplements. Statements about these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Dietary supplements are not appropriate for everyone and may interact with other supplements or medications, so talk to your health care provider before adding a dietary supplement to your routine.
Tea variety: White | Form: Loose leaf | Caffeine content: 5-40 mg | Steep time: 3 minutes | Flavor profile: Sweet, creamy, floral
Upton Tea Imports Champs de Lavande White Tea is our pick as the best tea of the year thanks to its exceptional flavor, affordability and luxurious drinking experience. Made with natural lavender blossoms and bourbon vanilla extract, this loose-leaf white tea delivers a sweet, creamy and floral flavor profile that's both soothing and indulgent.
During testing, we noted its perfectly balanced flavor, which features just the right amount of floral sweetness and a silky, creamy mouthfeel. The tea leaves a subtle, pleasant aftertaste that complements its delicate aroma.
While loose-leaf tea requires a bit more effort than tea bags, brewing it is relatively straightforward. Upton Tea Imports recommends steeping 1 teaspoon in 180°F water for three minutes. Depending on the steeping length, the tea's caffeine content ranges from 5 to 40 milligrams, making it a versatile option for a gentle morning start or a calming evening sip.
At $13.75 for 125 grams — just 25 cents per cup — Champs de Lavande offers exceptional quality at an affordable price. Its calming properties make it ideal for anyone seeking to relax, whether they're seasoned tea drinkers or newcomers. The catch? The tea is only available through the company's website.
Form: Loose leaf | Servings per container: Makes about 50 cups | Origin: India | Type: Masala chai
A great masala chai is more than just a cup of tea — it's a sensory experience. Vahdam Original Masala Chai delivers beautifully with balanced notes of black pepper, cinnamon and cardamom in every sip.
During testing, I found the flavors rich and inviting, making it feel like a special treat. It's worth noting this tea is definitely on the spicier side, which I liked, but could be too much for others.
Reviewers praise the tea for its bold flavor, which can be enjoyed hot or iced. One 5-star reviewer calls it, "the single best chai I have ever had," adding, "I am never without it in my cupboard and drink a cup every morning, and sometimes a second one in the afternoon.
To get the most out of the tea, make sure to have a spoon handy — the spice powder likes to settle at the bottom.
Tea variety: Matcha | Form: Powder | Caffeine content: High | Steep time: None; powder is whisked into hot water | Flavor profile: Robust, grassy, nutty
After trying more than a dozen matcha powders, Encha Matcha easily clinched the top spot and was awarded the best overall title in our best matcha powder roundup. Packaged in an airtight bag for easy storage, this budget-friendly pick offers a full-bodied flavor that's enjoyable on its own or topped with foamed soy milk for a latte.
This ceremonial-grade matcha features leaves grown in Uji, Japan — a region known for producing high-grade, flavorful matcha with minimal bitterness. The powder is also certified organic, meaning it's free of pesticides and chemical fertilizers.
Our tester praised the powder for its smooth yet robust flavor. Unlike many matcha powders, Encha Matcha's grassy and nutty notes shine with very little noticeable bitterness. However, she notes that because the flavor is more delicate, it isn't the best option for baking.
Matcha lovers and newbies agree that this powder is one of the best. According to one enthusiastic Amazon reviewer and self-proclaimed former "green tea hater," "I have to say that now I understand the reason why people go nuts over matcha tea. This tea is top-of-the-line, there is no doubt about that. It turned me from a green tea resister to a green tea lover, and that is HARD to do. The color is brilliant bright green, the aroma and flavor are the perfect balance of sweet greens and astringency, and the powder blends into water perfectly."
Tea variety: Ceylon and Assam blend | Form: Tea bag | Caffeine content: 40-50 mg | Steep time: 3-5 minutes | Flavor profile: Malty, honey
Fortnum & Mason Royal Blend is our favorite black tea and earned the title of best overall in our "Best black tea to brew in 2025" roundup thanks to its smooth, honeylike taste paired with high-quality tea leaves. Our tester notes that she first discovered Fortnum & Mason, which was created over 100 years ago for King Edward VII, while living in London and has been hooked ever since.
While bold in flavor and color, the tea's malty, slightly sweet flavor is milder than Earl Grey's and enjoyable any time of day. It's also available in both tea bag and loose-leaf form, with the latter packaged in a gift-worthy tin. The Royal Blend has hundreds of positive reviews online, with one Amazon reviewer calling it the "best tea ever." They add, "Fortnum and Mason make the best tea anywhere in the world. My only hesitation is that if readers learn that fact, it will be harder for me to buy it. Taste, texture and smoothness are superb."
At a little over $17 for 50 tea bags — or about 35 cents per cup — this tea falls comfortably in the midrange for price. The bigger consideration is that the tea can be hard to find in U.S. stores, so you'll likely need to purchase it online.
Tea variety: Herbal (mint) | Form: Loose leaf | Caffeine content: 0 mg | Steep time: 3-5 minutes | Flavor profile: Sweet, minty
Mint tea has long been used as a soothing and refreshing way to unwind. However, finding a mint tea that provides a vitalizing kick without being overpowering can be challenging. Luckily, your search for the best mint tea is over! Magic Hour's Mantra Mint has the perfect blend of flavor and quality. Plus, you can even purchase it in a violet glass apothecary jar, which doubles as airtight storage and decor.
The flavor profile is subtly sweet and minty, striking a favorable balance between minty enough to be refreshing and so minty it overwhelms the palate. While our tester wished for a stronger presence of flavor from the rose petals, the tea's overall taste was satisfying.
This tea is made with high-quality, organic ingredients, including peppermint, roses, natural vanilla extract and ashwagandha — an adaptogenic herb known for its potential stress-relieving benefits. "Ashwagandha has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine," says Insiyah Amiji, MD, pediatric expert and adviser at Baby Toddler Kids. "It's become a go-to ingredient in teas that promise to help with relaxation."
However, Amiji cautions that ashwagandha isn't suitable for everyone. "If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, it's best to steer clear since there isn't enough research on how safe it is," she explains. Additionally, those with autoimmune conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or Hashimoto's thyroiditis should be cautious, as ashwagandha can stimulate the immune system and potentially worsen symptoms. Lastly, "if you're on thyroid or blood pressure medications, it's a good idea to check with your doctor before adding it to your routine since it can interact with these medications," Amiji advises.
Mantra Mint is caffeine-free, making it an excellent option for those seeking a relaxing beverage at any time of day. Its brewing instructions — 1 teaspoon in 8 ounces of 212°F water for three to five minutes — are clear and easy to follow.
Tea variety: Green | Form: Loose leaf | Caffeine content: Low | Steep time: 1-2 minutes | Flavor profile: Grassy, umami
We have to be honest: Our top green tea pick and winner of our best green tea roundup is sadly out of stock. But don't worry — Herbs & Kettles Nilgiri Green Twirl offers exceptional depth of flavor, versatility in steeping and outstanding quality, making it the perfect replacement.
Our tester was especially impressed by the balanced combination of grassy and umami flavors without a hint of bitterness, making it a great choice for seasoned green tea enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Brewing the tea was slightly more labor-intensive than bagged tea, and you'll need a strainer or infuser. But it's worth it! You'll have a cup of quality green tea that provides a gentle lift without the jitters often accompanying higher-caffeine beverages. What's more, this green tea can be steeped multiple times, with the depth of flavor only intensifying with subsequent infusions.
At first glance, this tea may seem more expensive than other options, but its quality and ability to be steeped multiple times contribute to its overall value. The tea is also organic and thoughtfully sourced, adding to its appeal. While we did experience some mild mouth dryness after drinking it — a common effect with many green teas — the overall experience was positive.
Tea variety: Herbal | Form: Tea bag | Caffeine content: 0 mg | Steep time: 8-10 minutes | Flavor profile: Floral, herbal
Looking for a way to unwind and quiet your mind before bed? Numi's Sweet Slumber is your best choice. In our test of more than a dozen bedtime teas, Sweet Slumber rose to the top thanks to its balanced price and thoughtfully crafted blend. The tea combines evidence-backed ingredients like valerian root, chamomile, lemon balm and lavender, which work in harmony to ease your mind and relax your body.
Its subtly sweet, floral, earthy flavor profile enhances its calming effect. Chamomile is the dominant flavor, with notes of lavender, lemon balm and licorice providing added depth.
A five-star reviewer vouches for the tea's sleep-promoting benefits, saying, "I have recommended this tea to several coworkers and they all love it! I am tired within 30 minutes of drinking and stay asleep. The taste is pleasant, but if you aren't a fan of lavender, I have found adding milk and honey to it helps."
At $10 per box of 16 plastic-free tea bags — about 63 cents per cup — this tea provides excellent value given the quality of its ingredients. However, it's worth noting that this tea may not be suitable for everyone. Chamomile may cause an allergic reaction in people with ragweed allergies, while valerian root can interact with certain medications and isn't safe if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.
Tea variety: Fruit | Form: Loose (dried fruit) | Caffeine content: 0 mg | Steep time: 3 minutes | Flavor profile: Sweet, fruity
If you're craving a fruity tea that packs a punch, it's hard to beat Moosa Mixed Berries, one of the four teas we tested from Moosa's variety pack. This vibrant, caffeine-free blend bursts with natural sweetness thanks to its mix of dried organic berries. The flavor is sweet and fruity without being overpowering or artificial, a feature our tester and her husband appreciated.
But it's not just about taste. This tea is a breeze to brew, with clear instructions that call for just three minutes in boiling water. Its quick preparation makes it perfect for both busy mornings and relaxing evenings. Plus, with 25% of your daily vitamin C, it offers an immune-supporting bonus alongside its refreshing flavor.
While it's priced higher than some other teas — $19.99 for six servings, or $3.33 per cup — its quality and uniqueness make it worth the occasional splurge. Even our tester, who isn't usually drawn to fruity teas, was impressed by its balanced sweetness and lack of aftertaste. Seasoned fruity tea lovers also enjoyed its bold berry notes.
One five-star Amazon reviewer had a similar experience, saying, "I'm absolutely enchanted by this delightful tea. So grateful to have discovered this wonderful tea and look forward to many more cups of bliss! If you're a tea lover like me, do yourself a favor and give it a try — you won't be disappointed!"
Tea variety: Herbal | Form: Tea bag | Caffeine content: 0 mg | Steep time: 4 minutes | Flavor profile: Sweet, herbal, floral
After a long day, your mind is racing, and all you want is a cup of something to calm your nerves and help you unwind. Enter Thistle & Sprig's Four Sisters herbal tea blend — our pick for the best herbal tea. This tea is an invitation to relax. Packed with organic chamomile, lavender, peppermint and lemongrass, it's designed for those moments when you need to pause and breathe.
The dominant lavender flavor creates a soft, floral note that immediately eases tension, making it perfect for winding down before bed. Plus, it's caffeine-free, so you can enjoy it without worrying about affecting your sleep.
Four Sisters comes in eco-friendly packaging, with biodegradable sachets and a recyclable cardboard canister, making it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious tea drinkers. At $14 for 13 pyramid tea bags, or $1.08 per cup, it's a bit of a splurge, but we argue that the high-quality ingredients and the deeply relaxing experience it offers make it well worth it.
Tea variety: White | Form: Loose leaf | Caffeine content: Moderate | Steep time: 4 minutes | Flavor profile: Sweet, floral, vanilla
Nepal Tea Collective White Prakash Organic White Tea combines all the benefits of organic farming with exceptional flavor, making it an excellent option for eco-conscious consumers or those who want peace of mind that their tea was grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides or fertilizers.
Made from high-quality organic ingredients, this loose-leaf tea features a delicate blend of sweet, floral and vanilla notes. It's the perfect choice if you're looking for a refined, smooth flavor without any bitterness.
One five-star Amazon reviewer and self-proclaimed lifelong tea drinker says that this tea changed their mind about how flavorful white tea can be. They write, "I tried this tea after ordering the sampler pack (which is fantastic) and fell in love with this tea. It is hard to describe — it tastes like honey and apricots but has a richness and depth to it that was totally unexpected. I've always avoided white tea because I thought it didn't have much flavor, but I found myself quickly ordering this soon after I tried the sample."
Brewing is simple: Just steep 2 grams of leaves in 8 ounces of water for four minutes, and you have a smooth, refreshing cup. At $25 for 100 grams, or 50 cents per cup, it's great value for its organic quality. Plus, with its moderate caffeine content, it provides a gentle boost without the jitters, making it ideal for any time of day.
Tea variety: Black | Form: Loose leaf | Caffeine content: High | Steep time: 5 minutes | Flavor profile: Earthy, caramel
While we tried hard not to feature more than one tea from any single company, the Nepal Tea Collective Kumari Gold Organic Black Tea earned its place as the best loose-leaf tea for its well-rounded flavors and affordability. This organic, single-origin black tea boasts a rich and smooth flavor profile, blending earthy notes with a hint of caramel and honey. Unlike many black teas that can veer into bitterness, Kumari Gold delivers a perfectly balanced taste, making it a great choice if you're seeking a classic black tea.
Besides great taste, this tea stood out for its digestibility. Our tester noted that while many black teas cause her stomach discomfort, this one didn't. Instead, it provided a gentle and satisfying caffeine lift, making it an ideal replacement for your morning coffee. Clear brewing instructions and the option to re-steep the leaves add to its usability, ensuring a consistently enjoyable tea-drinking experience.
At about 50 cents per cup, if you re-steep once, this tea is excellent value for its quality. Online reviewers seem to agree. According to one Amazon reviewer, "The tea itself is great. It's sweet, malty and has a nice natural honey aroma and taste. The leaves are large and intact, with lots of golden tips. You can tell this is a high-quality picking. There are no stems, and there are plenty of downy buds in the tea. It's not the absolute most delicious black tea I've had, but it's probably one of the best-value teas I've found. Considering how fresh it is and the quality and taste, you really can't go wrong with this."
Tea variety: Herbal | Form: Tea bag | Caffeine content: 0 mg | Steep time: 5-8 minutes | Flavor profile: Fruity, earthy
Organic India Tulsi Ashwagandha tea is our top choice if you're looking for a tea that helps you unwind. With its thoughtful combination of ashwagandha and tulsi (holy basil), it's designed to help your body de-stress and find balance.
Ashwagandha is an adaptogen, meaning it may help the body adapt to stress and promote relaxation. When taken in supplement form, it's been shown to reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. Similarly, tulsi extract may help lower stress and support better sleep, though further research is needed. Amiji advises consulting your doctor before adding these herbs to your routine, as they aren't safe for everyone.
This tea's mild, sweet, mango flavor adds to its appeal, providing a pleasant sipping experience that our tester said helped them feel calmer during a busy workday. One Amazon reviewer agrees, saying, "This is my first box, but it won't be my last! I like the taste, and I do find it helps calm me overall." They also note that the tea doesn't upset their stomach like some other teas they've tried.
As with other Organic India teas, this blend is certified USDA Organic, and its ingredients are grown using regenerative farming methods by small-scale family farms. Plus, at about 39 cents a cup, it can fit into most budgets.
Tea variety: Yerba maté | Form: Tea bag | Caffeine content: 40 mg | Steep time: 5-10 minutes | Flavor profile: Earthy, herbaceous
Guayaki Yerba Mate is our favorite option for those seeking a natural, sustained energy boost. With 40 milligrams of caffeine per serving, it offers a smooth lift without the jittery side effects typically associated with coffee, making it a great alternative for those who want steady energy throughout the day.
Reviewers seem to agree, with many saying this tea has replaced their morning coffee. One five-star Amazon reviewer says, "I switched from daily coffee to Yerba and I will never go back. I don't get jitters, or a stomach ache like I do with coffee, but plenty of caffeine to get the day started."
Our tester described the flavor as earthy and herbaceous, reminiscent of green tea but with a smoother, less bitter taste. Made from certified organic and Fair Trade ingredients, this tea offers a brew you can feel good about sipping. Plus, at roughly $24 for 75 tea bags, or roughly 32 cents per cup, it provides excellent value.
Tea variety: Herbal | Form: Tea bag | Caffeine content: 0 mg | Steep time: 5-10 minutes | Flavor profile: Sweet, floral
Organic India Tulsi Sweet Rose is our best-value tea for several reasons. Most importantly, it strikes an excellent balance between quality and affordability. The tea features certified organic and ethically sourced ingredients, including holy basil, African basil, chamomile and rose petals. Together, these herbs make the tea a calming option without breaking the bank.
This tea's flavor profile is beautifully sweet and floral, with rose notes that some may find overpowering but others will love. The presence of chamomile adds an extra layer of soothing qualities, making it ideal for winding down in the evenings. This tea is caffeine-free, so it's a perfect bedtime drink that won't interfere with sleep. It's also easy to prepare: Simply steep a bag in boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes.
Priced at just $6.99 for 18 tea bags — around 39 cents per cup — it's one of the few budget-friendly teas offering this level of quality. As one five-star Amazon reviewer succinctly puts it: "Absolutely wonderful tea," adding, "Will be ordering more."
From high-caffeine brews to herbal blends, it can be challenging to know which tea best fits your wellness needs and preferences. Here's a breakdown of some of the most popular types of tea to help you decide:
Green: Green tea is known for its grassy, fresh flavor and high levels of catechins — antioxidants that may support brain function and heart health. Green tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant and contains moderate amounts of caffeine for a gentle energy boost. Unlike some other types of tea, green tea is nonoxidized. Oxidation in tea refers to a natural chemical process in which enzymes in the tea leaves react with oxygen after they are rolled. This process affects the color, flavor and aroma of the tea leaves.
Black: Black tea is also made from the leaves of the C. sinensis plant, but it's fully oxidized, giving it a rich, bold flavor and dark color. It contains more caffeine than other teas and is rich in antioxidants like theaflavins, which may support heart health.
White: White tea is nonoxidized, with a delicate, subtle flavor and lower levels of caffeine.
Matcha: This powdered form of green tea offers a concentrated dose of antioxidants like EGCG. Its creamy, umami flavor pairs with a gentle energy boost thanks to its unique combination of caffeine and L-theanine, an amino acid known for its calming effects and potential to promote relaxation without causing drowsiness.
Oolong: This partially oxidized tea offers a balance between black and green tea in terms of flavor and caffeine content.
Chai: This spiced black tea is traditionally mixed with milk and a sweetener. It's infused with spices like cinnamon, cardamom and ginger and is known for its warming, aromatic properties.
Herbal: These naturally caffeine-free teas contain herbs, flowers and fruits rather than C. sinensis leaves. They offer various flavors and potential health benefits, from calming chamomile to gut-soothing ginger.
Flavored: These products offer a combination of tea leaves with added fruits, flowers or spices to enhance the taste. Some may even include sweeteners, like stevia or sugar. Popular varieties include vanilla black tea and jasmine green tea.
Functional: These wellness teas are made with ingredients such as adaptogens, herbs or vitamins to target specific health benefits, such as stress relief, better sleep or enhanced immunity. Adaptogens are natural substances that may help the body adapt to stress and maintain balance, promoting overall well-being. However, many adaptogens are not safe for certain populations and should be discussed with a doctor before taking.
Maddie Miles, a board-certified herbalist and CEO of Peace Love Hormones, suggests several key factors when purchasing tea. First, consider the caffeine content. "If you're sensitive to caffeine or looking to reduce your intake, there are plenty of great herbal teas that are naturally caffeine-free," she explains.
Miles also advises choosing reputable brands that are transparent about their sourcing and production practices. And, if you're after specific health benefits, "ensure the wellness benefits align with your personal health goals," she adds.
When it comes to tea type, Miles recommends loose-leaf tea, saying, "Loose-leaf tea is often considered superior because it provides better flavor and a more medicinal infusion." Why? It typically has larger, less processed leaves, meaning they retain more of their natural oils and flavors.
We tested over 70 varieties from 18 different brands, evaluating each using a detailed set of criteria. These factors included tea variety and form, flavor profile and aftertaste, caffeine content, standout qualities and value for money. This thorough process ensured our recommendations cater to a wide range of preferences and needs.
We also consulted a board-certified herbalist, a medical doctor and three registered dietitians to gather expert insights on the potential health benefits of tea and select the best one. Our writer and primary tester is also a registered dietitian, adding another layer of expertise to our evaluation process.
Miles explains that loose-leaf tea is typically superior because the leaves are larger and less processed, allowing them to retain more natural oils and flavors. On the other hand, "tea bags often contain lower-grade leaves that are chopped into smaller pieces," she says, "which can result in a less favorable taste and medicinal properties."
"Tea contains powerful components that [may] support heart health, gut health and relaxation," says Alyssa Simpson, a digestive health dietitian in Phoenix. She explains that certain teas offer unique benefits. For example, green tea contains catechins, which may be protective of heart health, while polyphenols in green and black tea have been linked to a reduced risk of cognitive decline. However, certified intuitive eating counselor Elizabeth Harris notes that most studies on the benefits of tea are observational, and further research is needed to confirm these potential benefits.
"The tannins in tea may interfere with iron absorption," says Simpson, which may be a significant downside for those with iron deficiency anemia. However, she explains this can be mitigated by drinking tea between meals rather than with them. Also, "people sensitive to caffeine or with acid reflux may need to opt for herbal, caffeine-free teas to avoid exacerbating their symptoms," she adds.
Caution should also be used when it comes to herbal teas, as they may contain ingredients that are unsafe for people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, have certain health conditions or are taking prescription medications. In these cases, folks should talk with a health care professional before adding an herbal tea to their wellness regimen.
"The key to keeping dried herbs and tea fresh is to keep them in an airtight container away from light, heat and moisture — think cool, dark and dry," says Miles. She emphasizes that tea can quickly lose its flavor when exposed to these elements, making proper storage crucial. For preserving freshness, she recommends using a sealed glass jar.
Miles says brewing the perfect cup of tea depends on water temperature, steeping time and the herbs used. "Generally, delicate green and white teas should be brewed with water just below boiling — around 160-180°F," she explains. In contrast, "black tea can handle higher temperatures of around 200°F." She notes that herbal teas can vary, but a good rule of thumb is to steep them for 5 to 7 minutes to extract their flavor and medicinal properties fully. Finally, Miles adds, "The perfect cup of tea isn't just about the recipe — it's about the intention and mindfulness you bring to the moment."
With 18 companies sending us teas to try, we sampled a lot of teas — over 70! And that doesn't even include all of the teas we tested for other roundups, including 16 black teas, 20 green teas, 12 matcha powders, 13 teas for sleep and 11 teas for stress and anxiety. So, in total, it was closer to 150 options, although there was some overlap between some categories.
Here are some other teas we tried, what we liked about them and what prevented them from making this "best tea" list:
Adagio Teas: We sampled Peppermint, Earl Grey Bravo, Peach Oolong, White Peach, Coconut and Masala Chai. The peppermint was very minty and earthy, which may not appeal to everyone. The Earl Grey Bravo was pleasant, but it didn't stand out as much as other Earl Greys we sampled. The Coconut tea, while enjoyably coconut-forward, was too bitter. Both the Peach Oolong and White Peach were enjoyable, but their mild flavors left us wanting more. Our favorite was the Masala Chai, which boasted a lovely balance of spices. However, a faint mouth-drying sensation lingered after drinking it, preventing it from being our top choice for chai.
Herbs & Kettles: We tried Assam Black Gold, Darjeeling Golden Summer Muscatel and Vanilla Lavender Chai. While we enjoyed all three, they lost points because they lacked a stronger flavor.
Hollywood Hair Bar: This Hair Tea stood out because it can be consumed or applied topically. It had an earthy, sweet flavor that was too overpowering for our palate. However, we're considering trying it as a conditioning hair rinse, as suggested by the company.
Leaves of Leisure: We sampled Snow Angel, Picnic in the Park, Bath Time, Sun Soaked and Autumn Breeze. Snow Angel, a refreshing mint tea, was delightful, though not our favorite. Bath Time was too heavy on the lemongrass and rosemary, while Sun Soaked and Picnic in the Park were enjoyable but not our top picks for fruity teas. Autumn Breeze had a lovely blend of spices but was a bit too sweet for our liking.
Magic Hour: In addition to the mint tea that made our list, we tested Ruby Moon, Child's Pose, Lucid Dreams, Queen of the South, Queen of the Tropics and Aquamarine Dream. The teas were overall soothing to drink, with Aquamarine Dream being a top contender as the best tea for stress and anxiety. Its mild, sweet, fruity flavor profile, enhanced by natural pineapple and blueberry flavors, provided a pleasant sipping experience. Ultimately, Organic India Tulsi Ashwagandha Tea provided a better overall value, though you can't go wrong either way.
Moosa: We tried three other Moosa flavors: Immune Citric, Passion and Tropical Medley. We felt Immune Citric would be perfect with a dash of honey if you're fighting a cold, while the Tropical Medley was a little too pineapple-heavy. Passion was pleasant, though adding honey could have enhanced its flavor.
Nepal Tea Collective: We also tried Everest Black, Nepali Breakfast Organic Chai and Kathmandu Cosmos. Everest Black was relatively strong, Kathmandu Cosmos was too lemongrass-dominant and Nepali Breakfast Organic Chai was mild and didn't taste much like chai.
Numi: In addition to the Sweet Slumber tea that made our list, we tried three of Numi's green teas: Hojicha, Yuzu Bancha and Kukicha. Hojicha was rich and grassy, but we didn't like it as much as our top choice. Both Kukicha and Yuzu Bancha would benefit from more robust flavors.
Organic India: In addition to our best-value tea and best tea for stress and anxiety, we tested Tulsi Turmeric Ginger, Tulsi Sleep, Tulsi Ashwagandha, Tulsi Masala Chai and Tulsi Original. The only one we didn't like was the Tulsi Original, which was too sweet. The others are great-value teas.
Rise Yaupon: We loved the flavors Chocolate Mint-Up, America's Classic, Healthy Kick and Strawberry Zen, but we wished they had a bit more oomph.
Shaklee: We tried the Energizing Tea in pomegranate flavor and enjoyed it — it gave us a boost. However, the taste was a bit too subtle for our liking. We also sampled the Rest & Rewind in mint flavor, which did help us relax, but the minty taste was somewhat overpowering.
Sip Herbals: These unique beverages are designed as caffeine-free coffee substitutes and taste nothing like traditional tea. While we enjoyed the Cinnamon Roll, French Vanilla and Dirty Chai flavors, we think they would appeal more to coffee drinkers looking to cut back, as they closely resemble the taste of coffee.
Stash: Stash sent us two tea concentrates to try. The first, Double Spice Chai Latte, was delicious but a bit too sweet. The second, Earl's Delight Latte, had a strong almond flavor that wasn't to our taste, though some might enjoy it.
Teapigs: We tried four teas from Teapigs. The Lychee and Rose Cold Brew was delightful, but we couldn't include it in our list for comparison since it was the only cold brew we tried. We liked the Chai, but it wasn't our top choice among all the chai teas we sampled. The sweetness of the Licorice and Peppermint made it hard to enjoy, so it wasn't a top pick. The Darjeeling Earl Gray was one of our favorites, featuring a delicate floral taste that was satisfying from start to finish, but we acknowledge that the floral notes might not be as widely appealing as the smooth, honeylike flavor of our top black tea pick.
Thistle & Sprig: This brand sent us three additional teas to sample: Moonlit Mint, Georgia Grey and Farmhouse Lavender. We loved Moonlit Mint, but it wasn't the best mint tea we tried. Georgia Grey had a rich flavor but was too rosemary-forward for our taste. Farmhouse Lavender was heavy on hibiscus, which some might enjoy, but it wasn't to our tester's liking.
Upton Tea Imports: We also sampled Magnolia Blossom Oolong, Extra Bergamot Earl Grey and Season's Pick China Sencha. While we loved the Magnolia Blossom Oolong, we didn't include it on the list as there was only one other oolong for comparison. The Extra Bergamot Earl Grey was enjoyable but didn't stand out as much as other Earl Grey options we sampled. The Season's Pick China Sencha would have been our pick as the best green tea, but unfortunately, it's out of stock.
Danielle VenHuizen, a Seattle dietitian and owner of Food Sense Nutrition
Insiyah Amiji, MD, pediatric expert and adviser at Baby Toddler Kids
Maddie Miles, a board-certified herbalist and CEO of Peace Love Hormones
Alyssa Simpson, RDN, CGN, CLT, digestive health dietitian in Phoenix
Elizabeth Harris, MS, RDN, LDN, certified intuitive eating counselor
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
