In recent years, the issue of microplastics—tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size—has garnered significant attention due to their pervasive presence in the environment and potential health risks. One surprising source of microplastic exposure is the consumption of tea brewed using certain tea bags. This article delves into what microplastics are, the dangers associated with their ingestion, natural methods to aid their excretion from the body, how to identify tea bags free from microplastics, and highlights brands that have been found to contain these particles.

What Are Microplastics?

Microplastics are minuscule plastic fragments that result from the breakdown of larger plastic products or are manufactured intentionally for specific industrial applications. They are categorized into two main types:

  • Primary Microplastics: These are intentionally produced small plastics, such as microbeads used in personal care products like exfoliants and toothpaste.
  • Secondary Microplastics: These originate from the degradation of larger plastic items, such as bottles and bags, due to environmental factors like sunlight and mechanical abrasion.

Due to their small size, microplastics can infiltrate various ecosystems, leading to widespread environmental contamination.

Microplastics Tea Bags Warning of Dangers of Consuming Microplastics

The ingestion of microplastics poses several potential health risks:

  1. Physical Obstruction: Microplastics can accumulate in the gastrointestinal tract, potentially leading to inflammation or physical blockage.
  2. Chemical Exposure: Plastics often contain additives like phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), which are known endocrine disruptors. These chemicals can leach out and interfere with hormonal functions, potentially leading to reproductive issues and metabolic disorders.
  3. Carrier of Pathogens: Microplastics can adsorb harmful bacteria and pollutants from the environment, acting as vectors for pathogens and toxic substances.

Recent studies have raised concerns about the accumulation of microplastics in human tissues. For instance, research has detected microplastics in human organs, including the brain, with potential links to neurological conditions.

Identifying Tea Bags Without Microplastics

To minimize microplastic exposure from tea bags, consider the following tips:

  1. Choose Loose-Leaf Tea: Opting for loose-leaf tea lets you avoid tea bags altogether. Using stainless steel or glass infusers can further reduce plastic exposure.
  2. Select Plastic-Free Tea Bags: Some brands offer tea bags made from natural fibers without plastic sealing. Look for certifications or labels indicating “plastic-free,” “biodegradable,“ or “compostable.”
  3. Avoid Pyramid-Shaped Bags: Pyramid-shaped tea bags are often made from nylon or polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which can release microplastics when exposed to hot water.

metal tea infuser

Brands with Plastic-Free Tea Bags

Several tea brands have made commendable efforts to eliminate plastic from their tea bags. Brands like Pukka Herbs, Clipper, Yogi Tea, and Bigelow have taken steps to offer tea bags that are free from microplastics, providing hope for a future with less plastic pollution in our tea. Using loose leaf tea is also an effective way to avoid the dangers of microplastics in tea bags. All you need is a simple, inexpensive metal tea strainer.

  • Pukka Herbs: Their tea bags are free from plastics and are held together with organic cotton, making them fully compostable.
  • Clipper: This brand offers plastic-free tea bags and has been recognized for its sustainable practices.
  • Yogi Tea: Known for its natural ingredients, Yogi Tea’s bags do not contain microplastics.
  • Bigelow: This brand has been identified as offering tea bags without microplastics.

Brands with Tea Bags Containing Microplastics

Conversely, some popular tea brands have been found to use tea bags that may release microplastics:

  • Tazo: Their tea bags have been reported to contain plastic materials.
  • Teavana (Starbucks): These tea bags are made from plastic substances.
  • Celestial Seasonings: This brand’s tea bags have been identified as containing plastic.
  • Mighty Leaf Teas (owned by Peet’s): Their tea bags have been found to contain plastic materials.
  • Tetley: Some of their tea bags contain plastic components.
  • Twinings: Certain tea bags from this brand have been reported to contain plastic.
  • Lipton: Found to contain plastic materials.

It’s important to note that many of these brands are actively working towards eliminating plastic from their products. Check the latest packaging information or contact the companies directly for the most current details.

Ways to Reduce Microplastic Exposure

While avoiding microplastics entirely is impossible, reducing exposure can make a difference. Here are science-backed strategies to limit intake:

1. Avoid Bottled Water

A Environmental Science & Technology study found that switching from bottled water to tap water reduces annual microplastic intake from 90,000 to just 4,000 particles.  Additionally, boiling and filtering bottled water through a coffee filter can remove up to 90% of microplastics. If possible, drink and cook with only filtered water. There are many affordable and highly effective home water filtering products. An under the sink water filter system is the most efficient and easier to use when cooking as well. There are also excellent counter top models.

2. Reduce Indoor Microplastic Pollution

Most exposure occurs inside our homes, where plastics constantly shed fibers. To minimize inhalation:

  • Vacuum regularly to remove airborne microplastics.
  • Avoid polyester and nylon textiles in bedding, furniture, and clothing.
  • Use a microfiber-catching laundry filter to trap synthetic fibers from shedding during washing.

3. Avoid Plastic Kitchenware

Heating food in plastic containers releases plastic particles and chemical contaminants. Avoid plastic by using these healthier alternatives:

  • Glass, stainless steel, or bamboo for cooking and food storage.
  • Wood or metal utensils instead of plastic spoons, straws, or cutting boards.

4. Reduce Plastic in Personal Care Products

Many beauty and hygiene products also contain microbeads, tiny plastic particles found in exfoliants, toothpaste, and makeup. Because of the this, the U.S. has banned rinse-off microbeads, but they still exist in other products.

To avoid unnecessary exposure:

  • Choose natural, chemical-free skincare without synthetic additives.
  • Reduce plastic-packaged beauty products to cut down on environmental plastic waste.

Can the Body Remove Microplastics?

While research on how the human body eliminates microplastics is still emerging, certain natural strategies may support detoxification:

  1. Hydration: Water aids kidney function and helps flush out toxins.
  2. Dietary Fiber: Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables support regular bowel movements, which may expel ingested microplastics.
  3. Probiotics: Beneficial bacteria may help bind and remove microplastics from the gut.
  4. Activated Charcoal: Some studies suggest charcoal may bind to microplastics in the digestive tract.
  5. Regular Exercise: Sweating can assist with toxin elimination.

The Science Behind Foot Soak Detox and Well-being

While studies on ionic footbaths specifically are limited, broader research supports the therapeutic value of foot soaks for relaxation and stress relief:

  • Heavy Metal Reduction—The Journal of Environmental and Public Health suggested that ionic footbaths may reduce toxic metal levels in the body. While the study was small, the findings indicate that this therapy could assist in eliminating certain harmful substances.
  • Relaxation and Stress Relief – A Journal of Clinical Nursing study examined the effects of warm foot baths on individuals with sleep disturbances. Participants who soaked their feet in warm water before bed experienced significant improvements in relaxation and sleep quality, reinforcing the calming benefits of foot soaks.
  • General Wellness Benefits – Research on hydrotherapy and spa treatments suggests that warm water exposure can improve circulation, reduce muscle tension, and lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. While not exclusive to ionic footbaths, these findings highlight the potential advantages of incorporating regular foot soaks into a holistic wellness routine.

However, while ionic footbaths require further scientific validation, the available research on warm water therapy, relaxation techniques, and detoxification suggests that they serve as supportive wellness tools. Whether you want to reduce your toxic load or unwind, ionic footbaths offer a safe, non-invasive, and potentially beneficial addition to a self-care regimen.

Ready to take the next step in your wellness journey?

Schedule your ionic footbath detox with us today and enjoy $10 off your first visit! If you’re experiencing back pain, neck pain, or headaches, we’re here to help! Don’t let pain keep you from living your life to the fullest. Schedule an appointment today and see why Dr. James Doran is the Chiropractor Denver chooses for pain relief and improved performance. 

Medical Journal References:

1.Objective Assessment of an Ionic Footbath (IonCleanse): Testing Its Ability to Remove Potentially Toxic Elements from the Body

Kennedy, D. A., Cooley, K., Einarson, T. R., Green, R., & Seely, D. (2012). Objective assessment of an ionic footbath (IonCleanse): Testing its ability to remove potentially toxic elements from the body. Journal of Environmental and Public Health, 2012.

2. The Effect of Foot Bath on Sleep Quality in the Elderly: A Systematic Review

Kim, S., Park, J. H., & Kang, S. W. (2024). The effect of foot bath on sleep quality in the elderly: A systematic review. International Journal of Nursing Studies Advances. 

3. Improving Sleep Quality in Older Adults: Foot Reflexology or Warm Foot-Bath?

Özdemir, L., & Karabulut, N. (2022). Improving sleep quality in older adults: Foot reflexology or warm foot-bath? Geriatric Nursing.