How do you make a powerful herbal tea?

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

A herbal tea or a herbal infusion?

Colloquially, people often speak of (herbal) tea, while a herbal infusion is actually meant. Traditional tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant and contains caffeine. Only when you make an infusion from this plant do you speak of 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, then we speak of a herbal infusion.

The basic principles of a powerful herbal infusion

For thousands of years, people all over the world have been using herbal infusions. This is not only for the rich flavors or for relaxation, but also for their supportive role in health. To make 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 brewing time: water that is too hot can destroy delicate flavors and properties or make it too bitter, while brewing for too short a time can result in a weak tea.
• Cover your tea while steeping: do this so that the essential oils do not evaporate.

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 has to do with their firmness. Soft parts are flowers, leaves, shoots, and young branches. These contain little to no woody structures and are often rich in water. As a result, they release their active ingredients more quickly. Our Jiaogulan Classic, Teasel leaf and Cistus rose are examples of soft plant parts.

To make a herbal infusion, follow the method below:

1. Bring water to a boil and let it cool slightly to approximately 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 pot.
4. Let steep for 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the desired strength.
5. Strain the herbs and pour into a teacup.

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

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

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

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

Start your own tea ceremony!

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

Take the time to carefully prepare your tea, enjoy the fragrant aroma, and drink slowly while 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 moment to consciously absorb the benefits of the plant.

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

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

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