Chamomile tea, a widely favored herbal infusion, is recognized for its gentle, apple-like flavor and soothing properties. While often enjoyed as a warm beverage, it is entirely permissible and refreshing to drink chamomile tea cold. This versatile herbal drink can be a delightful and cooling alternative without compromising its inherent qualities.
Does Temperature Affect Chamomile’s Properties?
The beneficial properties of chamomile tea primarily stem from its rich composition of active compounds, notably flavonoids such as apigenin, luteolin, quercetin, and rutin, alongside various terpenoids. Apigenin is particularly recognized as a prominent bioactive flavonoid in chamomile.
Research indicates that apigenin-7-O-glucoside, the main form of apigenin found in chamomile infusions, demonstrates considerable stability even when subjected to thermal processing. This specific flavonoid is very stable at temperatures up to 100 °C for several hours, regardless of the pH level. Although some isolated forms of apigenin might show degradation under extreme heat or in the presence of certain metals, apigenin in its natural form within the tea is generally stable.
Therefore, preparing chamomile tea using hot water and then chilling it, or opting for a cold brew, does not significantly diminish its core therapeutic components. The health benefits, including its ability to promote relaxation and act as an anti-inflammatory agent, are largely retained regardless of whether the tea is consumed hot or cold. Antioxidants, for instance, are known to be well-preserved at lower temperatures. While the aroma and taste profile might subtly shift when chilled, the underlying chemical integrity that provides its beneficial effects remains intact.
Preparing and Enjoying Cold Chamomile
Creating cold chamomile tea can be achieved through a couple of straightforward methods, each offering a slightly different outcome in flavor and preparation time. The most common approach involves hot brewing the tea first, similar to how one would prepare a hot cup. For this method, steep chamomile flowers or tea bags in hot water for approximately 5 to 10 minutes, often brewing it stronger than usual to prevent a diluted taste once ice is added. After steeping, the tea is strained, allowed to cool to room temperature, and then refrigerated until thoroughly chilled.
Alternatively, cold brewing offers a smoother, often less bitter flavor profile, though it requires more time. To cold brew, combine chamomile (loose flowers or tea bags) with cold water in a pitcher or jar and refrigerate it for about 4 to 12 hours, or even overnight. This extended steeping time in cold water allows for a gradual extraction of flavors. Some suggest using more chamomile for cold brewing to ensure a robust flavor, as it can sometimes taste watery if not prepared adequately.
Once prepared, cold chamomile tea can be customized with various additions to enhance its natural sweet, apple-like notes. Common enhancements include a squeeze of lemon, a drizzle of honey or agave nectar, or a sprig of fresh mint. Other options include incorporating ginger, cinnamon, or even berries for a more complex flavor. Brewed chamomile tea should be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator and can maintain its freshness for up to 5 days.