Muse Encounters with Lisa Hilbert, Tea Tonic Founder

Lisa Hilbert is an accredited naturopath and herbalist, and founder of iconic Australian herbal tea brand, Tea Tonic.

Founded in 1998, Lisa wanted to share her love of tea with the world. Most of all, she wanted help others incorporate wellness into their day. Knowing the risks associated with drinking heavily processed tea, Lisa was committed to using the highest quality, pure ingredients – organic plants and herbs that would cure ailments, promote good health and taste delicious.

We had the pleasure of catching up with Lisa to chat about her story, how her background in naturopathy has influenced Tea Tonic and her fondest scent memories. 


Tell us about your journey to starting Tea Tonic.

The Tea Tonic story began whilst studying Naturopathy. I have always had a passion for herbs and how easily people can add herbal teas to their daily routine to support overall health. 

Personally, I suffered with persistent skin issues from a young age, including random rashes, eczema, and extreme sensitivity which led me to create Complexion Tea, which was specifically designed to support skin health by cleansing the blood, liver and lymphatics. 

From there I created Well Being Tea to help promote a more alkaline system and Relaxation Tea which is a soothing blend that stood out as the first on the market without chamomile, 26 years ago. Both of these areas I found addressed key health issues for many people.

Initially, I sold these teas at local markets, where I found that offering samples allowed people to experience their unique flavours and benefits firsthand. Eventually, I expanded into health food stores, sharing my blends with an even wider audience until today where the range has grown to 44 functional blends which I continue to sample to at exhibitions all around Australia. 

How does your background in naturopathy influence your ethos, and product range?

Naturopathy is the foundation to everything we do. Tea Tonic was founded on a naturopathic blend of organic herbs and every decision is based on this. When I purchased my first teabag machine, I was determined that we only use unbleached teabag paper to make sure our teabags are the most natural option for people who don't choose loose leaf tea. We source only the very best quality organic ingredients and these ensure that our supply chain is completely ethical from farm to teacup. 

Our product range has evolved slowly and organically over the past 26 years to meet our customer demands. As we love to sample and talk directly with our end consumer it gives us the opportunity to listen to their needs. It is a lot of fun creating the range, however I will not bring a new tea into the Tea Tonic family just for the sake of it. Each tea that is released must have a true purpose to exist within the range and its own distinct character using specific medicinal herbs to achieve its desired result. 

Collaboration, teamwork and transparency form the vital backbone of how Tea Tonic works best. This holistic approach aligns perfectly with the ethos of naturopathic philosophy, enabling us to create all products with integrity and care.

What does a typical day at Tea Tonic HQ look like for you?

As I travel a lot with my work, I often start the day checking how each staff member is progressing. My team are all very strong and experienced, which makes for great discussion. I value all their opinions in the decisions that are being made, from new flavours to the direction Tea Tonic is taking.

I mainly wear sneakers at work, as I like to walk the factory floor and be hands on when deadlines are tight. Quality is everything to us, so before each new batch of tea is packed, we taste it to ensure it meets our quality standards. The kettle is always on, and tea is constantly being brewed!

Of course, there are a number of Zoom and face to face meetings, often accompanied by even more tea. It's the perfect way to keep the creativity and collaboration flowing. 

 

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Trust your instinct without doubt. 

What is your fondest scent memory, and why?

Jasmin, tea tree, and warm salt air - it reminds me of playing with childhood friends over the long summer holidays near the beach.

What is your favourite scent type to wear and why? 

Floral with a hint of green tea under notes. I find that it’s a ‘grown up memory’ of those long summer holidays playing happily with a free spirit. 

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Shop The Scent

Shop like Lisa Hilbert with our stunning summery salt air scent - Isle of Blanc