How do you put a powerful herbal tea ?

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

A herbal tea or a herbal infusion?

In popular language, people often talk about (herbal) tea, while it actually means a herbal infusion. Traditional tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant and contains caffeine. Only if you make an infusion from this plant do you speak of a tea. This can be a black, green or white tea. If you make an infusion from other plants, such as chamomile, lemon balm or pine needles, we speak of a herbal infusion.

The Basics of a Powerful Herbal Infusion

For thousands of years, people all over the world have been using herbal infusions. Not only for their rich flavors or for relaxation, but also for their supportive role in health. To make a flavorful and powerful 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 briefly can produce a weak tea.
• Cover your tea while it is steeping: do this so that the essential oils do not evaporate.

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

The preparation of soft parts is different from that of the hard parts of a plant. This has to do with the 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 contents 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 plant parts?

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. The preparation therefore also differs from the infusion methods as described above. In this case, you extract the most power via a decoction. You can also do this from 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 to the boil and 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 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 has its origins 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 your time to carefully prepare your tea, enjoy the fragrant aroma, and sip 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 can turn every cup of herbal tea into a little moment of Wellbeing.

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