Got cherry stems? Don’t toss them! These overlooked parts of the fruit can be transformed into a soothing, naturally caffeine-free herbal tea. Find out how to make cherry stem tea, why it’s worth drinking, and how to dry your own cherry stems at home.
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In This Post:
First—a little story.
The Gift of Cherry Stems
"This is for you."
My mother handed me a pretty jar filled with something light and papery.
“Dried cherry stems,” she said with a smile.
“Uh-huh, thanks,” I replied, still unsure. “What do you make with them?”
“Tea, of course. What else?”
And just like that, I was a cherry stem tea drinker.
It tastes surprisingly nice—light, earthy, a little fruity, a tiny bit bitter (in a good, grown-up way). Sometimes I throw in dried grapefruit peel or a bit of sage if I’m feeling fancy. But even on its own, it’s cozy and calm and kind of… grounding.
What Is Cherry Stem Tea?
It’s really just what it sounds like: a tea made from the dried stems of cherries (yes, the little sticks you usually throw away). You brew it just like any herbal tea: hot water + dried cherry stems = soothing wellness in a cup.
In some cultures, especially in France and parts of Eastern Europe (for instance, in Romania, where I grew up), it’s considered a home remedy for various minor ailments.
Health Benefits
While it’s not a miracle cure, cherry stem tea is often used in folk medicine for its:
- Diuretic effects – May help flush out excess water and support kidney function
- Detox properties – Traditionally used to support liver and urinary tract health like many other herbal teas
- Anti-inflammatory – Thanks to natural tannins
- Mucolytic effect – Can help thin mucus when you’ve got a stubborn cough
How to Dry Cherry Stems ...
... so you can be that person who makes their own herbal tea.
It’s honestly so easy, and also kind of satisfying.
- Eat some organic cherries (I know, what a chore).
- Wash the cherries first, then pat them dry.
- Pluck off the stems and spread them out on a plate, tray, or dish towel.
- Let them air-dry for about a week, until they feel dry and papery.
- Store your dried cherry stems in a cute jar or tin.
How to Make a Cup of Tea
Okay, tea time. Here is how to do it:
- Take 10–15 dried cherry stems.
- Pour 1 cup (250 ml) of hot water over them.
- Let steep for 10–15 minutes.
- Strain and enjoy.
The tea tastes surprisingly pleasant! Think: light and earthy, with a touch of bitterness and a very subtle cherry note. It’s a gentle tea, not overpowering—and it feels especially nice in the evening or after a rich meal.
You can drink it plain or play around with flavors. I love adding dried orange peel, sage, or a slice of ginger.
I’m always curious. How did it go? Tried making cherry stem tea? I wanna hear all about it. How did you serve it? Did you like it? Drop the details below because we all love a good kitchen win or a lesson learned.
Wishing you planty of tea-licious delights,
Ramona
♥
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