An herbal tea, or tisane, is made by steeping plants in hot water. It is simple, inexpensive and a pleasant way to add flavour and variety to your water.
- Leaves and flowers are steeped; roots and bark are simmered.
- Use about 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried herb per cup.
- Cover while steeping to keep the aroma in.
- Check with a professional if you are pregnant, nursing or take medicines.
Infuse or simmer?
Infusion is for delicate parts: leaves, flowers and soft herbs. Pour just-boiled water over the herb, cover, and steep for 5 to 10 minutes.
Decoction is for tough parts: roots, bark and seeds. Simmer in water for 10 to 20 minutes, then strain.
Method
- Measure 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried herb into a cup or teapot.
- Add about 250 ml of hot water.
- Cover and steep for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Strain, and sweeten with honey or add lemon if you like.
A few teas to try
- Linden leaf: soft and gently sweet, popular in evening blends.
- Birch leaf: a mild, fresh, slightly woody tea.
- Plantain leaf: a traditional, earthy leaf tea.
- Chicory root: traditionally roasted and simmered as a coffee-style drink.
- Catnip: a mild herb often used in relaxing blends.
- Peppermint and spearmint: cool and refreshing, hot or iced.
Making iced herbal tea
Make a stronger brew, cool it, and pour over ice. Add lemon, a few mint leaves or a splash of juice.
Storing herbs for tea
Keep them in a sealed jar away from light and heat. Whole leaves stay fragrant longer than crushed ones. See our storage guide.
Safety
Natural does not mean right for everyone. Some herbs are not recommended in pregnancy or breastfeeding, and some can interact with medicines. Try one herb at a time, and stop if you notice a reaction.
Products mentioned in this article
Linden Leaf Herb
From ₦7,000
100g to 1kg
Choose size
Birch Leaf
From ₦7,000
100g to 1kg
Choose size
Plantain Leaf
From ₦4,000
100g to 1kg
Choose size
Chicory Root
From ₦6,000
100g to 1kg
Choose size
Catnip Herb Powder
From ₦5,000
100g to 1kg
Choose size
Peppermint Leaf
From ₦4,000
100g to 1kg
Choose sizeSpearmint Leaf
From ₦4,500
100g to 1kg
Choose sizeFrequently asked questions
How long should I steep herbal tea?
About 5 to 10 minutes for leaves and flowers, longer for roots and bark.
Can I reuse the herbs?
You can steep leaves a second time for a milder cup.
Is herbal tea caffeine-free?
Most herbal teas are, but check the herb. Green tea, for example, is not.
Please note: this article is for general information and is not medical advice. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medicines or have a medical condition, speak to a qualified healthcare professional before using herbs or supplements.
