It’s time to spill the tea on a wellness trend that’s coming in hot: tea cycling. (And, no, it’s not about sipping Earl Grey while snacking on dainty scones!). Here, Melanie Hartskeerl, resident Naturopath at Wildsoul Wellness explains why this wellness trend is the real deal. And, not just another storm in a teacup…
A tea-rific wellness trend
According to Melanie, tea cycling is about syncing your herbal tea consumption with the phases of your menstrual cycle. “Women are becoming increasingly aware of their bodies’ natural rhythms and recognising the importance of tailoring self care practices,” she explains. Just as many women adjust their workouts or diets based on their cycles, tea cycling involves drinking specific herbal blends to support the hormonal and physiological changes that occur throughout the month.
Think of it as personalised tea therapy. One blend for soothing cramps during menstruation, another to energise you during the follicular phase, and yet another to calm mood swings in the luteal phase. It’s a natural, holistic approach to achieving hormonal harmony.
The health benefits of tea cycling
Tea cycling isn’t just a fleeting trend. It’s rooted in centuries of traditional medicine. Herbal teas have long been celebrated for their ability to support health. And, now, they’re being repurposed in a more targeted way.
“Herbal teas offer gentle yet powerful benefits,” says Melanie. “They’re cost-effective, easy to incorporate, and can address common hormonal imbalances like PMS, bloating, and mood swings.” For example:
Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5): Soothing herbs like chamomile and ginger can ease cramps and inflammation.
Follicular Phase (Days 6-14): Energising herbs such as nettle and red clover provide nourishment and vitality.
Ovulatory Phase (Days 14-16): Antioxidant-rich herbs like hibiscus support detoxification and reduce stress.
Luteal Phase (Days 17-28): Adaptogenic herbs like withania and licorice root help tackle PMS symptoms.
By addressing your body’s unique needs during each phase, tea cycling promotes balance, reduces discomfort, and enhances overall well-being. And, as Melanie notes, it’s not just for menstruation – peri- and post-menopausal women can also benefit from tailored blends.
Is this trend the real deal, or just another storm in a tea cup …?
Melanie predicts tea cycling will be the talk of the wellness world this year. “Tea cycling has the potential to be a significant wellness trend in 2025 due to its alignment with several key health and self care movements,” she says.
It is a method that aligns with the broader consumer shift toward holistic health solutions. And, Instead of merely treating symptoms, tea cycling supports hormonal balance by drawing on herbal teas that have been used for centuries in traditional medicine. “By addressing the root causes, tea cycling fosters long-term balance rather than offering a quick fix,” Melanie notes.
Tea cycling also emphasises empowerment through education. Melanie highlights its role in encouraging individuals to learn about their cycles, understand their symptoms, and take charge of their health. This aligns with a growing emphasis on health literacy, particularly among women, as they seek to improve their overall well-being.
Accessibility is another strength of tea cycling. Herbal teas are an affordable and widely available form of self-care, making them easy to incorporate into daily routines. For those seeking cost-effective yet impactful wellness practices, tea cycling is an appealing option.
As awareness of hormonal health issues such as PMS, PCOS, and perimenopause grows, many women are turning to natural ways to manage their cycles and improve their quality of life. Tea cycling offers a gentle, non-invasive solution. “Herbal teas tailored to each stage of the cycle can provide targeted benefits. These include easing menstrual cramps, promoting energy, or balancing hormones,” Melanie explains.
Additionally, tea cycling taps into the growing trend of functional beverages. That is, drinks designed not only for enjoyment but also for specific health benefits. Herbal teas customised for different phases of the menstrual cycle align perfectly with this demand for purposeful, health-enhancing options.
As Melanie explains tea cycling can also adapt to seasonal or hormonal changes, providing targeted support for immunity, digestion, or the nervous system. “This intentional approach to tea blending offers a natural and holistic way to nurture the body’s needs. No matter the time or season,” she says. By blending ancient practices with modern wellness values, tea cycling offers a meaningful and accessible way to prioritise hormonal health and overall well-being in 2025.
How to cross your Teas and get started
If you’re ready to give tea cycling a whirl, Melanie suggests starting simple. Begin with a few gentle, easy to drink teas tailored to your most noticeable symptoms – maybe a calming chamomile blend for cramps or a mood boosting herbal mix for PMS. “Listen to your body and adjust your teas as needed,” she advises. And, while most herbal teas are mild and well-tolerated, consulting a naturopath for personalised guidance can help you get the most out of your tea cycling journey.
Beyond its physical benefits, tea cycling is an opportunity to slow down and practice mindfulness. Brew a cup of your chosen blend, take a moment to breathe, and connect with your body. As Melanie points out, “Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha or calming teas like chamomile are perfect for grounding moments of stress or anxiety.” Whether paired with meditation or simply enjoyed as a daily ritual, tea cycling offers a moment of calm in the chaos.
So, are you ready to embrace this brew-tiful trend? With its blend of ancient wisdom and modern wellness vibes, tea cycling is more than just a fad – it’s a revolution in how we care for our bodies. And that’s the tea!
