Tea has long been a comforting and nourishing ritual during pregnancy and the postpartum period. A warm cup in your hands can support hydration, relaxation, and overall well-being, something I’ve witnessed firsthand over decades of working with women and families.
In recent years, we’ve learned something many of us weren’t aware of: some tea bags may release tiny microplastic particles into your tea during the brewing process. While this can feel surprising, it also offers an opportunity to make a simple, supportive shift.
During pregnancy, many women begin making more intentional choices to support both their health and their baby’s, often becoming more mindful of what they consume and exploring simple shifts, like choosing loose leaf tea over tea bags.
What Are Microplastics in Tea Bags?
Microplastics are very small plastic particles that can be released when certain materials are exposed to heat. Some commercially produced tea bags, particularly those made with plastic-based fibers or sealed with plastic—have been found to release these particles into hot water during steeping.
Not all tea bags contain plastics, but it can be difficult to know which ones do. For those of us who drink tea daily—especially during pregnancy and postpartum—this is worth mindful consideration.
Why Loose Leaf Tea is a Beautiful Alternative
Loose leaf tea offers a simple and nourishing way to enjoy herbs without this concern.
When herbs are loose, they have space to fully unfurl in the water. Unlike finely cut bagged tea, whole or larger-cut herbs retain their potency longer and release their beneficial properties more completely. This allows their natural oils, minerals, and supportive qualities to infuse more fully.
The result is a tea that is richer in flavor, more nourishing, and more aligned with traditional herbal preparation.
Choosing loose leaf tea also helps you avoid potential microplastics found in some tea bags, making it a cleaner option for regular use.
A Simple Way to Brew Loose Leaf Tea
Brewing loose leaf tea can become a gentle ritual:
Add 1–2 teaspoons of loose herbs to a tea infuser or directly into your cup or teapot
For Wholistic Woman Teas like the Pregnancy & Postpartum Support Tea we often recommend 2 tablespoons per cup of hot water to maximize the medicinal benefits of the herbs
Pour hot water over the herbs
Cover and steep for 10–15 minutes (or 20–30 minutes or longer for deeper extraction)
Strain if needed, and enjoy
You may add honey for taste and comfort, especially during pregnancy, labor, or postpartum recovery.
Supporting Pregnancy and Postpartum Naturally
Herbal tea can be a beautiful way to support the body during these important seasons of life.
In my midwifery practice, I often recommended up to 1 quart (about 4 cups) of nourishing herbal tea daily throughout pregnancy and postpartum, depending on individual needs. Always check with your care provider.
Herbs such as red raspberry leaf have traditionally been used to support uterine tone, digestion, and gentle nourishment. Other herbs may help support blood building, provide bioavailable vitamins and minerals, and aid in relaxation, emotional balance, and overall recovery.
Beyond the physical benefits, tea offers something just as important—a moment to pause, breathe, and reconnect with yourself.
Creating a Daily Tea Ritual
Choosing loose leaf tea invites a slower, more intentional experience. It becomes less about convenience and more about care.
Whether it’s a quiet cup in the morning, a soothing blend during labor, or a moment of rest in the early postpartum days, tea can be a steady companion.
If you’re exploring ways to support your body naturally, I invite you to learn more about our Pregnancy & Postpartum Support Tea blends and visit our FAQ page for additional guidance on choosing and preparing your tea.
A Gentle Closing Thought
We don’t need to approach the topic of microplastics in tea bags with fear—only awareness. There are tea companies that use bags designed to avoid releasing microplastics.
However, choosing loose leaf tea is a simple, meaningful step toward reducing unnecessary exposure while deepening the nourishment and enjoyment of your tea.
And if you compost, your steeped herbs can return beautifully to the earth.
Small, thoughtful choices like this quietly support your health, your baby, and your overall well-being.