Quick answer: For most healthy adults, drinking a few cups of ordinary herbal tea a day, such as lemongrass, hibiscus, peppermint or chamomile, is a normal part of a varied diet, and it counts towards the fluid you need. It’s sensible to vary the teas you drink, follow the directions on the packet, and check with your GP or pharmacist first if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medicine or have a health condition.
Does herbal tea count as water?
Yes. The NHS recommends 6 to 8 glasses of fluid a day, and says water, lower-fat milk and sugar-free drinks, including tea and coffee, all count. Herbal tea without sugar is a good way to add variety. Watch the sugar or honey you add, though, as that can add up over several cups.
How many cups a day?
There’s no single number that suits everyone or every herb. For everyday herbal teas, many people drink two to four cups a day. Follow the directions on each product, and if a packet suggests a maximum, keep to it.
Why variety is a good idea
Switching between different herbal teas, rather than drinking a large amount of one herb every day, is a sensible habit. It also makes tea more interesting. Try a bright tea in the morning, a fruity one in the afternoon and a warm one in the evening. See types of herbal tea.
Who should check first?
- If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
- If you take any medicines, because some herbs can interact with them.
- If you have a health condition, such as kidney or liver problems.
- If you have allergies, for example to plants in the daisy family (which includes chamomile).
- Before giving herbal tea to children.
In these cases, speak to your GP or a pharmacist before drinking herbal tea regularly.
Are there herbs I shouldn’t mix?
Everyday culinary herbs like mint, lemongrass and ginger are commonly combined. Stronger medicinal herbs and supplements are different and shouldn’t be mixed casually. If you’re unsure about a particular herb or blend, ask a pharmacist.
Tips for a daily herbal tea habit
- Keep it simple: one bag per mug, freshly boiled water, 5 minutes.
- Go easy on sugar and honey.
- Store tea sealed so it stays fresh.
- Try iced herbal tea in summer.
A word on health claims
You’ll see lots of claims online about what herbal teas do for your body. In the UK, foods and drinks can only make health claims that have been officially authorised, so K&M Herbs describes its teas by taste, ingredients and how to brew them. Enjoy herbal tea because you like it.
Herbal tea in the evening
Because most herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free, many people make one their evening drink instead of tea or coffee. If you find you’re getting up in the night, try having your last cup a little earlier. Read how much caffeine is in tea.
Making it a habit
Keep a few favourite teas where you’ll see them, and pair a cup with something you already do each day, such as breakfast or your afternoon break. A flask of herbal tea at work makes it easy to drink more fluid without thinking about it.
Frequently asked questions
Is it OK to drink herbal tea every day?
For most healthy adults, a few cups of everyday herbal tea is fine. Check with your GP or pharmacist if you’re pregnant, take medicine or have a health condition.
Does herbal tea count towards my water intake?
Yes. The NHS says tea counts towards your daily fluid.
Is herbal tea better than water?
Water is the simplest choice, but unsweetened herbal tea counts too and adds flavour.
Who should not drink herbal tea?
Anyone pregnant, breastfeeding, on medication or with a health condition should check with a GP or pharmacist first.
Shop the teas in this article
- Lemongrass tea bags – £8
- Hibiscus Tea Bags – £8
- Soursop Leaf Teabags – £8
- Gift Pack – £14.80