Instead of throwing used tea leaves, put them to good use with these hacks

Prachi Jain, chief clinical nutritionist at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, offers a range of creative and practical ways to give used tea leaves a second life. From compost material to natural cleaning agents, here’s how you can make the most of your tea leaves:

*Compost material: Tea leaves are a valuable addition to your compost bin. They provide nitrogen and, when combined with “brown” materials like dry leaves or cardboard, create a balanced compost mix.

*Odour absorber: Dried tea leaves can effectively absorb and neutralise unwanted odours in areas like refrigerators, shoes, or closets.

*Natural cleaning agent: Tea leaves can serve as an abrasive for scrubbing dishes, pots, and pans. The tannins in tea can also help remove stains and grease from surfaces.

*Facial exfoliator: Finely ground, dried tea leaves make a natural exfoliating scrub for your skin. Combine them with honey or yogurt for a DIY face mask.

*Hair rinse: Brewed tea makes an excellent hair rinse, adding shine and softness. After shampooing, cool the tea and pour it over your hair, leaving it for a few minutes before rinsing.

*Natural dye: Tea can be used as a natural dye for fabrics and paper, offering various shades of brown.

*Insect repellent: Sprinkle dried tea leaves in your garden or home to deter insects. The aroma can help keep pests away.

*Flavour enhancer for cooking: Depending on the tea type, used tea leaves can infuse flavour into dishes. They can be used to marinate meats or add a subtle tea flavour to rice while cooking.

*Tea crafts: Let your creativity shine by incorporating dried tea leaves into art projects, such as tea-themed greeting cards, collages, and crafts.

*Homemade potpourri: Mix dried tea leaves with other aromatic herbs and spices to create personalised potpourri for delightful home decor.

Jain advises ensuring the used tea leaves are completely dry before storing or using them for these purposes to prevent mold or moisture issues. Additionally, be mindful that the tea’s flavour may influence the application, so consider the type of tea you’re using in your projects. Embrace the versatility of used tea leaves and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle.

Check out Sanjeev Kapoor’s video below:

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