Although many devoted tea-drinkers find great pleasure in sipping these aromatic cups, “herbal teas” are not officially teas. In the world of tea, only teas made from the Camellia sinensis plant is considered real tea.
Rather, “herbal teas” are single or blended infusions of leaves, fruits, bark roots or flowers of almost any edible, non-tea plant. In Europe, herb teas or blends are commonly known as tisanes.
Something Interesting to Consider…
Within the herbal family is the wonder herb rooibos or Red Tea. Known for its high levels of health-boosting polyphenols and flavonoids, Red Tea is a South African herb cultivated only in the mountains and valleys of the Cedarberg region near Cape Town. Sip and you’ll taste a faintly sweet cup with a mellow character and no bitterness.
Caffeine
Herbal teas are mostly caffeine-free. However, certain herbs such as Yerba Maté contain caffeine.
Steeping is Easy
Heat fresh, filtered water to a rolling boil.
Add one teaspoon of herbs or one tea bag per six-ounce cup – the size of a traditional tea cup rather than a mug.
Pour the water over the herbs and infuse.
Steep herbs 5-7 minutes for herbal tea bags as well as full-leaf herbal teas.
Experiment to find your favored steeping time. Enjoy Sip by Sip.
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