How do you make a powerful herbal tea?

Herbal tea is a natural way to enjoy the power of plants. We also sell herbs you can brew into tea. You can read how below.

A herbal tea or a herbal infusion?

Colloquially, people often refer to it as (herbal) tea, when it actually refers to an herbal infusion. Traditional tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant and contains caffeine. Only when you make an infusion from this plant is it called a tea. This can be black, green, or white tea. If you make an infusion from other plants, such as chamomile, lemon balm, or pine needles, it's called an herbal infusion.

The Basics of a Powerful Herbal Infusion

For thousands of years, people around the world have used herbal infusions, not only for their rich flavors or for relaxation, but also for their supportive role in health. To create a flavorful and potent herbal infusion, there are a few basic principles:

• Use fresh or dried herbs: dried herbs are more concentrated, so you need less of them.
• Choose pure water: preferably filtered or spring water.
• Use the correct temperature and steeping time: water that is too hot can destroy delicate flavors and properties or make it too bitter, while steeping too short can produce a weak tea.
• Cover your tea while it steeps: do this to prevent the essential oils from evaporating.

How do you prepare an herbal infusion from the soft parts of the plant?

The preparation of soft parts differs from that of the hard parts of a plant. This is due to their firmness. Soft parts include flowers, leaves, shoots, and young branches. These contain little to no woody structures and are often rich in water. Therefore, they release their constituents more quickly. Our Jiaogulan Classic, Teasel leaf and Cistus rose are examples of soft plant parts.

To make an herbal infusion, follow the method below:

1. Bring water to the boil and let it cool slightly to about 85°C.
2. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried herb per cup or a handful of fresh herb.
3. Pour the hot water over the herbs and cover the cup or jar.
4. Let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the desired strength.
5. Strain the herbs and pour into a tea glass.

How do you prepare a decoction of the hard parts of the plant?

The hard parts of the plant require a different preparation because they consist of harder tissue and often contain less water. These are the parts that provide strength and protection to the plant. Think of the root, stem, branches, bark, needles, and seeds. Therefore, the preparation differs from the infusion methods described above. In this case, you extract the most potency through a decoction. You can also do this with our... Scots Pine needles.

To make a decoction of hard plant parts, follow the decoction methods below:

1. Add 1 tablespoon of the herbs per cup of water in a saucepan.
2. Bring the mixture to the boil and then let it simmer for 10 to 20 minutes with the lid on the pan over low heat.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for a little longer for extra flavor.
4. Strain the tea and pour it into a tea glass.

Start your own tea ceremony!

A tea ceremony is a ritual in which drinking herbal tea is elevated to a moment of peace, meditation, and connection. It originated in Asian countries like China and Japan, where it is seen as a way to practice mindfulness and develop a deeper appreciation for the present moment.You too can give this a place in your life.

Take your time to carefully prepare your tea, savor the fragrant aroma, and sip slowly, fully focusing on the moment. It helps to pause, breathe, and calm your thoughts, which can bring a sense of inner peace to your busy life. This is also a time to consciously absorb the plant's benefits.

With these tips you can turn every cup of herbal tea into a little moment of Wellbeing.

Curious about our dried herbs? View the collection: Spices &Teas.

**Health claims pending European approval