What can be done with dried tea leaves that have been consumed

After being dried, tea leaves can be used for various purposes such as deodorization, cleaning, flower cultivation, making pillows, and insect repellent.

1. Deodorization

Dried tea leaves have strong adsorption capacity and can absorb odors in the air. Putting dried tea leaves into gauze bags and placing them in places such as refrigerators, shoe cabinets, or bathrooms that are prone to odor can effectively remove unpleasant odors. Polyphenols in tea can also inhibit bacterial growth and reduce the source of odors.

2. Cleaning

Dry tea leaves can be used to clean greasy tableware or kitchen countertops. Sprinkle tea residue on the oil stain and gently wipe it. The tea polyphenols and tannic acid in the tea can decompose the oil. The micro particle structure of tea also helps with physical cleaning. After cleaning, simply rinse with clean water, which is environmentally friendly and will not damage the item.

3. Flower Cultivation

Dried tea leaves are natural organic fertilizers that contain essential nutrients for plant growth such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Mixing tea leaves residue with soil can improve soil structure, increase air permeability and water retention. However, it should be noted that tea leaves should be fully fermented before use to avoid direct application that may cause root burning.

4. Making Pillows

Put a large amount of dried tea leaves into cotton cloth and sew them together to make a tea pillow, which has the effect of calming the mind and helping sleep. The aromatic substances in tea can soothe nerves and help relax. Tea pillows have good breathability and are not prone to breeding mites, making them suitable for people who are allergic to synthetic fiber fillers.

5. Insect repellent

Some insects do not like the smell of tea leaves. Sprinkle dried tea leaves on windowsills, doorways, or corners of cabinets to drive away pests such as ants and cockroaches. The caffeine and tannic acid in tea have a repellent effect on some insects and are a natural pest control method. Although tea leaves that have been used have been brewed, they still retain various beneficial ingredients. Dried tea leaves can be turned into treasure and have various practical functions in daily life. However, it should be noted that tea leaves are prone to moisture and mold. Before use, ensure that they are completely dry, and store them in a well ventilated and dry place. For tea leaves with different purposes, it is recommended to collect and process them separately. For example, tea leaves used for cleaning should be stored separately from those used for flower cultivation. Reasonable utilization of discarded tea not only reduces waste generation, but also brings convenience to daily life, making it an environmentally friendly lifestyle worth promoting.