Herbal teas are not really teas at all. Tea experts classify herbal teas as an "herbal infusion" because true teas--commonly known as black, green and white tea--come from the same tea plant, Camellia sinensis. Herbal infusions are made of any herb and can steep up to several hours depending on the herb and strength desired. Common plants used to make herbal tea include chamomile flowers, mint leaves, orange peel, licorice root, fennel seed, cinnamon bark and dried blueberries.
History
Herbal teas have a long history around the world as a remedy for many ailments including stress, infection and the common cold. Ancient Chinese medicinal practices and Ayurvedic remedies from India have employed herbal teas as medicinal remedies for thousands of years. These cultural medicinal traditions have only recently received scientific attention to evaluate medicinal claims through clinical trials.
Bags and Balls
Herbal tea blends and singular herbs are available in tea bags or as loose tea. Tea bags require the least amount of effort, no clean up and provide the easiest way to make the perfect cup of herbal tea every time. Place loose tea in a reusable bag, in a tea ball or loose in the cup. Reusable tea bags come in muslin, cotton mesh or plastic. A tea ball is stainless steel and has a screw top. You can also place loose tea in your cup to make herbal tea. Pour it through a strainer after steeping and before drinking.
Preparation
Prepare your herbal tea from fresh or dried plant material. For the highest quality tea grow your own plants, or buy tea from a specialized retailer. The University Of Wisconsin Department of Integrative Medicine advises using 1 cup of boiling water per tea bag or 2 tbsp. of crushed, dried herbs. Different herbs require varying steeping times. Follow the directions provided on the package or by your health practitioner.
Shelf-Life
Store your herbal tea ingredients in air tight containers for optimal shelf life. The University Of Wisconsin Department of Integrative Medicine advises consuming tea bags within three months. Plant material stored in an airtight container is best before 12 months. Although the herbal tea may maintain its flavor, the medicinal properties decrease with age.
Precautions
As with any medicine or food, you may have an allergic reaction to herbal teas. This reaction, including a rash or a headache, may appear upon your first use or manifest over time. The University of Michigan Health System warns herbs may interact negatively, interfere with the efficacy or intensify the effects of prescription and over-the-counter medications. Consult with your doctor before drinking herbal tea if you are pregnant, have a pre-existing health condition or take any medications.
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