How to Brew Plane Tree Leaf Tea

Beyond the shade of this stately tree, plane tree leaves have also long been used in folk medicine. Dried plane tree leaves are readily available from herbal shops. If plane leaf tea is sold as a product, make sure the plant is correctly identified and read the preparation instructions on the label. Traditional accounts are not a substitute for medical treatment. The following describes how plane leaf tea is brewed and how it is traditionally used.

Preparing plane leaf tea
For products made with dried leaves, follow the brewing instructions on the product label. A traditionally attributed property is that it may help the body eliminate excess water. The flavor of herbal tea varies with the amount of leaf used and the steeping time. This information is based on traditional use; people with a serious health concern are advised to consult a doctor.

Ingredients for plane leaf tea
To make plane leaf tea, you need one 200 ml measure of water and 1 to 1.5 tablespoons (15 ml) of dried plane tree leaves; the quantities can be increased according to the number of people. Dried leaves can be purchased ready to use from herbal shops or prepared at home by drying them in the shade. Dried leaves are recommended instead of fresh ones because drying intensifies their aroma and produces a more balanced brew. Make sure the leaves are clean, dust-free, and thoroughly dried.

How to brew plane leaf tea
First, boil one 200 ml measure of water and pour it into a cup. Add 1 to 1.5 tablespoons (15 ml) of dried plane tree leaves and steep for about 10 minutes. This is enough time for the leaves to release their aroma and color into the water; covering the cup with a saucer helps keep the aroma from escaping. When steeping is complete, strain the tea to remove the leaves and drink it warm. For a stronger flavor, steep it for a few minutes longer, but do not exceed 15 minutes because the tea may become bitter if steeped too long. Add honey or cinnamon after straining if desired.

Plane leaf tea is discussed here as a beverage prepared according to the product label, not as a treatment for the skin or hair. This use may be repeated several times weekly. Plane leaf tea is prepared only as a beverage; no kitchen recipe for applying it to the skin is provided. These external uses are based on traditional information and are not a substitute for seeing a professional about a serious skin problem.

Points to keep in mind
People with neurological conditions such as epilepsy are advised to consult a doctor before drinking plane leaf tea; there is also no scientific evidence on this point. Caution is also advised during pregnancy or breastfeeding and for people who regularly take medication. Drink the tea in moderation, a daily total of no more than 1–2 cups; excessive consumption of any herbal tea may cause unexpected effects in the body. When trying a new herbal tea, starting with a small amount and observing the body's response is a prudent approach.