Herbal Teas, Infusions, & Decoctions
Herbal teas, also known as tisanes, are beverages made from the infusion or decoction of herbs, spices, flowers, and other plant materials. Unlike true teas like green, black, or oolong, which are derived from the Camellia sinensis plant, herbal teas do not contain caffeine. Instead, they offer a diverse range of flavors, aromas, and health-promoting properties.
Infusions: A Gentle Brew: Infusions involve steeping herbs in hot water to extract their flavors and active compounds. This gentle method is ideal for delicate herbs like chamomile, lavender, and peppermint. Each herb releases its unique essence, resulting in a soothing and aromatic brew. Whether you seek relaxation, digestion aid, or a boost to your immune system, there's an infusion to suit every need.
Chamomile: Renowned for its calming properties, chamomile infusion is a popular choice for winding down after a hectic day. It promotes relaxation, eases stress and anxiety, and aids in digestion.
Lavender: With its floral aroma and gentle flavor, lavender infusion offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It may help alleviate insomnia, reduce inflammation, and soothe headaches.
Peppermint: Refreshing and invigorating, peppermint infusion is perfect for revitalizing the senses. It aids digestion, relieves nausea, and provides relief from congestion and cold symptoms.
Decoctions: Harnessing the Power of Roots and Bark: Decoctions involve boiling tougher plant materials like roots, bark, and seeds to extract their medicinal properties. This method is ideal for extracting potent compounds that may not readily release through steeping. From immune-boosting blends to nourishing tonics, decoctions offer a concentrated dose of nature's goodness.
Ginger: Warm and spicy, ginger decoction is a versatile remedy for various ailments. It aids digestion, relieves nausea, soothes sore muscles, and boosts circulation.
Cinnamon: Rich in antioxidants, cinnamon decoction helps regulate blood sugar levels, improve heart health, and enhance cognitive function. Its sweet and woody flavor adds depth to herbal blends.
Dandelion Root: Often overlooked, dandelion root decoction is a powerhouse of nutrients. It supports liver detoxification, aids digestion, and promotes radiant skin. Its earthy flavor pairs well with warming spices like ginger and turmeric.
Moving on to my most beloved method….
Daily Nourishing Herbal Infusions
This is a topic that you will consistently hear or read me discuss. Herbal Infusions are an amazingly nutritive way to imbue your life with hydration, vitamins, and minerals-as well as receive the beneficial constituents of the plants you are infusing.
What is a nourishing herbal infusion?
NHI's are the simplest way to receive potent plant medicine. It's a very easy process. We simply add herbs to a quart jar, cover with boiling water, and steep for a long period of time. I prefer to steep my infusions overnight, but you don't have to. Anywhere from 20 minutes-8 hours is perfectly fine.
How do I know what herbs to use?
We will be going over this information throughout the year, but essentially you will want to work with herbs that are nutritive and mildish in flavor. Stay away from bitter herbs or really aromatic herbs here-long steeping time for something as simple as chamomile turns it from a lovely beverage to something quite unsavory.
I usually work with any herbs from this list:
stinging nettles
raspberry leaf
oatstraw
elderberry
rosehips
burdock root
marshmallow root
chickweed
violet leaf
hibiscus
linden flower
Can I blend herbs together?
Sure you can! But I would strongly recommend beginning with simples (one herb). This way you get to know that herb on an intimate level. The synergy of herbal blends are amazing, but focusing on one at a time really deepens your relationship with it.
I've steeped my herbs. Now what?
At this point, I strain off the liquid and compost the herbs. I usually strain it off into a quart jar and then drink throughout the day. But, if you only want to drink a small cup at a time, you should store it in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage. Most infusions will keep for 24-48 hours in the fridge.
How often do I drink them?
Well, they are called daily nourishing infusions! I try to make it a point to drink one every day. Before bed I steep and allow it to steep all night. I wake in the morning, strain, and usually drink it by noon. Once you get into the habit, it will become second nature. Make this a part of your daily evening ritual. Fill your jar, boil your water, brush your teeth/wash your face, pour the water over your herbs, cap, and go to bed!
Interested in purchasing some of our herbal teas?
