Lettuce tea might surprise those who only know this leafy vegetable from salads. Its leaves, beyond being versatile in cooking, are also used in light and aromatic infusions that have been passed down for generations.

In some regions of Brazil, the drink is also called “lettuce infusion” or simply “lettuce water,” reflecting its simplicity and deep roots in popular tradition.

More than just a homemade recipe, lettuce tea is tied to cultural practices and the tradition of transforming everyday foods into comforting drinks filled with memory and gentle flavor.

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🌿 Nutritional Table – Lettuce (100 g, raw, smooth variety)

Component	Amount (per 100 g)	%DV*
Energy	13 kcal	<1%
Carbohydrates	2.2 g	1%
Proteins	1.1 g	2%
Lipids	0.2 g	<1%
Fiber	1.8 g	7%
Calcium	22 mg	2%
Iron	0.3 mg	2%
Magnesium	10 mg	2%
Potassium	162 mg	5%
Vitamin C	3.7 mg	8%
Vitamin A	166 mcg	28%

*Daily values based on a 2,000 kcal diet.
Source: TACO – Brazilian Food Composition Table / NEPA-UNICAMP.

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🍵 Benefits and Culinary Curiosities

Lettuce tea is a simple and light beverage that highlights the versatility of this vegetable.
Instead of being just a salad ingredient, lettuce takes on a new form when prepared as a warm, delicate infusion.

🌱 Wellness Benefits

• A light beverage with very low calories.
• Can support hydration, whether served hot or cold.
• Provides small amounts of calcium and potassium.
• Offers a new and creative way to enjoy lettuce in daily life.

🍃 Curiosities

• Often mentioned in popular traditions, especially among older generations in rural Brazil.
• Can be mixed with mint or chamomile for a more aromatic flavor.
• Any lettuce type (green, smooth, or purple) can be used, each giving a subtle variation in taste.

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🏺 Traditional and Popular Uses

Throughout history, lettuce tea has been part of family customs as a mild beverage, often linked to evening relaxation or after-dinner routines.

In Brazilian folk tradition:

• It was served as a home-style alternative to other herbal teas.
• Commonly prepared in ceramic or enamel pots, reinforcing its homemade character.
• Sometimes combined with lemon or honey to enhance flavor and aroma.

⚠️ These uses are part of cultural heritage and should not be confused with medical recommendations.

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☕ Simple Lettuce Tea Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 to 5 lettuce leaves, washed
• 250 ml (1 cup) of filtered water
• Honey or lemon (optional)

Preparation:

1. Bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the washed lettuce leaves.
3. Turn off the heat and cover, letting steep for 8 minutes.
4. Strain before serving.
5. Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired.

📌 Tip: Use the outer leaves of the lettuce that are often discarded — it’s a great way to avoid waste.

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🌸 Culinary and Cosmetic Uses

🍽️ Culinary Use

• In addition to salads, lettuce can be used in green juices, soups, and mild infusions.
• Lettuce tea can be enjoyed alone or blended with chamomile or mint for a soothing herbal mix.
• It’s a natural and refreshing option to diversify your daily warm drinks.

💧 Cosmetic Use (with Caution)

There are popular reports of lettuce infusion water being used as a gentle skin lotion.
However, there is no scientific evidence confirming cosmetic benefits.
⚠️ Always test on a small skin area first and discontinue use if irritation occurs.

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🌱 Storage and Cultivation

Storage

• Store fresh, clean, and dry lettuce leaves in the refrigerator inside a sealed container or perforated plastic bag.
• Lasts 3 to 5 days under proper conditions.

Cultivation

• Lettuce grows best in light, well-drained, organic-rich soil.
• Prefers mild temperatures and partial sunlight.
• It’s one of the easiest vegetables to grow at home, ready for harvest in 40–60 days.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Does lettuce tea have a strong flavor?
No. It has a very mild and neutral taste.

2. Which lettuce type is best for tea?
Any variety works, but smooth and curly lettuce are the most common.

3. Can lettuce tea be sweetened?
Yes, you can drink it plain or sweetened with honey, sugar, or sweetener.

4. Can children drink lettuce tea?
It’s a mild infusion, but always consult a health professional before offering it to small children.

5. Does lettuce tea replace other teas?
No, it’s simply another light infusion option.

6. Can it be served cold?
Yes, it can be refrigerated and enjoyed chilled.

7. Are there any contraindications?
People allergic to lettuce should avoid it. When in doubt, always consult a healthcare provider.

8. Does lettuce tea help with weight loss?
There’s no evidence that lettuce tea causes weight loss by itself. It can be part of a healthy routine.

9. Can I use organic lettuce for the tea?
Yes — it’s even better, since it avoids pesticide residues.

10. Does lettuce tea have calories?
Almost none when made with just leaves and water.

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✅ Conclusion

Lettuce tea is a simple, soothing infusion deeply rooted in Brazilian family traditions.
More than just a drink, it’s a way to rediscover a familiar vegetable in a new context, celebrating culture, comfort, and daily well-being.

👉 Keep exploring Nutritive Blog and discover other delicious herbal infusions and greens:

• Bay Leaf Tea
• Rosemary Tea
• How to Prepare Herbal Teas Correctly

⚖️ Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical or nutritional advice.
📖 Trusted Source: Brazilian Ministry of Health – Vegetables in Nutrition.

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Prepare your tea the right way

If you plan to use this plant to make tea, use the Nutritive Blog tea infusion timer. Proper infusion time helps preserve active compounds and ensures better results.

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