Storm in a teacup: Top 8 loose-leaf teas

THE health properties of tea have long been advertised. “It maketh the body active and lusty” a 1660 promotion suggested. However, before you dunk your teabag into a mug of steaming water, spare a thought for the environment. Some have polypropylene to help to seal them and it doesn’t decompose.

Loose tea is a simple alternative. If enough tea leaves could be grown, as Theresa Storey of Green Apron in Limerick has shown, we would be able to support local. She is unlikely to produce enough to meet national demand, but she has made a brave and interesting start.