✿ Frequently Asked Questions
🌸 Flower Details
Q. What is a tisane (herbal tea)?
A tisane (pronounced tee-zan) is the French word for botanical infusion — what we often call herbal tea here in America. Unlike traditional tea made from Camellia sinensis leaves, a tisane is steeped from flowers, fruits, roots, or herbs. While we started with a line of tisanes, we now have expanded to blooming teas and functional tea blends which some have caffeine and true teas (green tea, black tea and oolong tea).
Q. What does “single origin” mean?
“Single origin” means that each of our flowers comes from one specific region and farm, where the environment, soil, altitude, and climate create a unique character and energy in the bloom.
Just like single-origin coffee or chocolate, The Qi’s single-origin flower teas express the distinct terroir — the spirit of the land — from which they come.
For example:
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Our Shangri-La Rose is grown at 10,000 ft in Yunnan, China, where the high altitude and pure mountain air produce petals that are vibrant, aromatic, and deeply nourishing.
Q. Are your teas organic?
Many of our teas are grown using organic and sustainable farming practices, though not all of our small partner farms have formal certification. We work directly with family-owned farms that follow traditional, chemical-free cultivation methods to preserve the purity and energy of each bloom.
Q. Where are your flowers sourced from?
We partner directly with small family farms across Asia — for example, our Shangri-La Rose is grown at 10,000 ft in Yunnan, China. Each origin is carefully chosen for its unique terroir, traditional farming wisdom, and extraordinary purity.
Q. Do you test your flowers for safety and quality?
Yes. We do independent third-party testing in the U.S. in accordance with USDA National Organic Program (NOP) standards to ensure every bloom you sip is clean, safe, and of the highest quality.
Q. Are your teas vegan and gluten-free?
Yes — all of our flowers and blends are 100 % plant-based, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly.
Q. Do your teas contain any artificial flavors or additives?
No. Every The Qi tea is made with real whole flowers — no added flavoring, coloring, or preservatives.
Q. Do your teas contain caffeine?
Our pure flower teas (tisanes) are naturally caffeine-free. Some of our blooming teas include a touch of green tea, offering gentle energy and antioxidants.
Q. How should I store my flower teas?
Store your flower tisanes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. To extend freshness and preserve aroma, refrigerate them in an airtight container.
Q. How do I store a flower I’ve already steeped once?
You can leave the flower in your cup and cover it to keep it airtight, or transfer it to a lidded glass carafe. Top with fresh water and refrigerate to enjoy your second or third infusion the next day.
Q. What is the shelf life of The Qi flowers?
Our flower teas are best enjoyed within 24 months of harvest (the best by date is listed on each package). They don’t technically expire but may lose vibrancy and aroma over time — just like any natural botanical.
🍵 Enjoying the Flowers
Q. How do I brew and enjoy The Qi flowers?
Pour boiling water (~210 °F) over one whole flower in a small teapot or large glass mug. Let it bloom and steep for 3 minutes before sipping.
For a chilled floral tea, brew as usual and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
For the most visual beauty, use clear glassware so you can fully experience the blooming ritual.
Q. What temperature water should I use?
Use 210 °F / 99 °C for whole-flower teas and blooming teas.
Q. Can I reuse the same flower multiple times?
Yes — each bloom can be steeped up to three times. Simply add fresh hot water and enjoy.
Q. Can I drink your teas cold or iced?
Absolutely. Steep your flower tea as usual, then refrigerate for several hours or pour over ice for a refreshing, naturally sweet floral infusion.
Q. Can I add honey or lemon?
Yes — honey, lemon, or a slice of fruit beautifully complements the natural floral notes.
Q. When will I feel the benefits?
Every body is unique. Some people notice instant calm, glow, or balance, while others experience gradual benefits over time. The mindful ritual itself — pausing, watching the bloom, and taking mindful sips — nurtures emotional and energetic well-being immediately.
Q. Can I drink too much flower tea?
Our caffeine-free flower teas are gentle enough to enjoy several times a day. We recommend 1–3 cups daily as part of your self-care ritual. As with any botanical, balance is key — listen to your body and sip mindfully.
Q. Can I drink flower teas while pregnant or breastfeeding?
While our botanical infusions are made only from flowers, every pregnancy is unique. Please consult your healthcare provider before introducing any new herbs or teas during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Q. Can my child drink flower teas?
Our tisanes are caffeine-free, but please consult your child’s pediatrician before sharing flower tea with them.
Q. Will the flower teas interfere with my medications?
If you’re taking any medications, please speak with your doctor before enjoying herbal teas or botanical infusions, as individual interactions can vary.
Q. When is the best time to enjoy flower tea?
Because all of our flower tisanes are naturally caffeine-free, you can sip anytime — morning, afternoon, or night.
At The Qi, we love a mid-afternoon reset or an evening wind-down. Rose and Blue Lotus are especially soothing before bed, helping promote deeper rest and relaxation.
Q. How can I get the most out of The Qi flower ritual?
We recommend steeping one flower per day, up to three times. Each steep reveals new aroma and color. The magic lies in slowing down — watching the bloom unfurl, breathing in its scent, and being fully present. That mindful moment is where healing and beauty meet.
Q. Can I blend different flowers together?
Yes! Create your own blooming tea blend by mixing different flowers. Try Rose + Chrysanthemum for balance or Blue Lotus + Rose for tranquility. There are no rules — just beauty and curiosity.
Q. What else can I do with The Qi flowers?
Our edible flowers are incredibly versatile. Beyond tea, use them for:
– Facial steams and ritual baths
– Baking and desserts
– DIY beauty rituals and masks
– Cocktail and mocktail garnishes
Visit our BLOG for recipes and creative ways to infuse your life with flowers.
💫 Health & Wellness
Q. What are the benefits of flower teas?
Each flower offers unique benefits rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM):
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Rose – supports skin, mood, and circulation
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Chrysanthemum – cools, calms, and supports eye health
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Blue Lotus – promotes relaxation and emotional balance
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Jasmine & Lily – open the heart and soothe the mind
Q. Are your teas safe for daily consumption?
Yes. Our teas are gentle enough for daily enjoyment and safe for long-term use.
Q. Are your teas suitable for people with allergies?
Our teas are made from single-ingredient flowers with no additives, but please avoid them if you have known allergies to specific botanicals or pollens.
🎁 Gifting & Packaging
Q. Can I include a gift note?
Yes! Add a personalized note at checkout — If you already checked out without a note, unfortunately, we would not be able to add it in.
Q. Do you offer gift sets or bundles?
Yes. Explore our curated flower tea gift sets and wellness bundles, designed for birthdays, weddings, and everyday moments of care.
Q. Is your packaging sustainable?
We use recyclable boxes and while our inner wrappers are not at the moment. We thrive and are work on more sustainable solutions.
🛍 Orders & Subscriptions
Q. How many servings are in each box?
Each flower can be steeped up to three times, creating roughly three cups per bloom. A box of nine flowers yields up to 27 cups of tea.
Q. Do you offer subscriptions?
Yes! Subscribe to your favorite flower teas and save 10 %. You can pause, skip, or cancel anytime directly from your account.
Q. How can I track my order?
Once shipped, you’ll receive a confirmation email with tracking details. You can also view your order status anytime through your account page.
Q. What if my order arrives damaged or missing items?
Please email hello@the-qi.com with your order number and a photo. We’ll make it right immediately.
🚚 Shipping & Delivery
Q. When will I receive my order?
For U.S. Orders
Orders are processed within 3–7 business days and ship via UPS Ground. Delivery times vary by location.
All orders include tracking confirmation. Please double-check your shipping address before completing checkout — we cannot reroute packages once shipped.
Standard shipping does not include insurance.
For International Orders
International orders ship via USPS First Class Mail and typically arrive within 7–20 business days, though customs may occasionally extend delivery times.
Tracking updates may be limited once the package leaves the U.S.
Customs duties and import taxes are the buyer’s responsibility.
We cannot mark packages as gifts or alter declared values.
Standard shipping does not include insurance.
💫 Returns & Exchanges
Q. What’s your return and refund policy?
We want you to love your blooms. If you’re not completely happy, we accept returns or exchanges within 30 days of purchase.
Please email hello@the-qi.com to begin your return or exchange.
🌎 Brand & Mission
Q. What does “The Qi” mean?
“The Qi” (pronounced chee) means vital life energy in Chinese — the essence that flows through all living things. Our mission is to help you reconnect with this life force through the beauty and ritual of flowers.
Q. What inspired The Qi?
The Qi was born from founder Lisa Li’s healing journey and her love for the ancient art of flower tea. Each bloom is a reminder to slow down, reconnect with nature, and feel alive.
Q. Do you have a physical location or tea room?
Yes! Visit The Qi Studio in Flatiron, NYC — a calming space for tea tastings, community events, and collaborations.
Privacy
Please see our privacy policy here: The Qi Privacy Policy