How to Brew Herbal Tea
Herbal tea is made from herbs, spices, and other natural ingredients, not leaves from the Camellia sinensis plant. However, it is a type of tea because it follows the same three-step process to create a beverage with health benefits.
Herbal teas are generally classified by the main ingredient: mint, ginger, raspberry, etc. Wide varieties and flavors are available; each has its preparation method. Whether you prefer dried or fresh herbs depends on your tastes and how you use your herbal teas.
Some are better suited to drinking hot, while others taste the best cold. Here's everything you need to know about how to brew herbal tea.
What You'll Need
- Some dried herbs, loose-leaf tea, or a few fresh leaves
- A teapot or kettle (with hot water)- One cup or mug for each serving- Milk, sugar, and lemon, if desired
- A timer
- Clean water, a clean, dry spoon, and a clean, dry surface to work on
Dried Herbs
Dried herbs, such as peppermint, lavender, and rosemary, are the most common ingredients in herbal teas. They are best stored in airtight jars, away from direct sunlight and excessive heat and moisture.
When you're ready to brew, allow them to come to room temperature before using. If you use dried herbs, remember that you'll need more than fresh herbs to achieve the same result. You can compensate by using a longer steeping time.
Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs, such as rose petals, lemon zest, and mint leaves, are more potent than dried herbs and can be used in smaller quantities. They can also be preserved in jars with liquid or sugar for future use.
Fresh herbs also have a short shelf-life, so work with a small quantity at a time and use them within a few days. They lose their spiciness and freshness when refrigerated, so try to use them immediately.
Brewing Process
- Choose a teapot with a loose-fitting lid to allow the aroma and flavor to infuse the room while you're brewing your tea. Alternatively, you can use a large bowl or pitcher covered with a towel to prevent the leaves from escaping.
- Use fresh water, as the flavor will be affected by the chlorine in tap water. - Measure out the desired amount of herbs, following the guidelines above. For fresh herbs, use about one tablespoon of fresh leaves for each cup of water. For dried herbs, use one teaspoon per cup of water.
- Bring your water to a boil.
- Add the herbs either to the teapot, bowl, or pitcher. Cover the container with a lid and let the tea steep for five to 10 minutes, depending on how strong you like your tea and which herbal variety you use.
- Remove the herbs and enjoy!
How to Make Black Tea with Dried Herbs
Black tea is made with dried herbs and an extended steeping time. You can add milk and sugar to taste. Black tea with dried herbs is a common ingredient in herbal iced teas.
- Heat water to boiling.
- Add one teaspoon of dried herbs per cup.
- Steep the tea for five minutes.
- Remove tea leaves and serve hot or cold.
How to Make Green Tea with Dried Herbs
Green tea is made with dried herbs but has a shorter steeping time. You can add milk and sugar to taste.
- Heat water to boiling.
- Add one teaspoon of dried herbs per cup.
- Steep the tea for two minutes.
- Remove tea leaves and serve hot or cold.
How to Make Black Tea with Fresh Herbs
Black tea is made with fresh herbs and an extended steeping time. You can add milk and sugar to taste.
- Heat water to boiling.
- Add one teaspoon of fresh herbs per cup.
- Steep the tea for five minutes.
- Remove tea leaves and serve hot or cold.
How to Make Green Tea with Fresh Herbs
Green tea is made with fresh herbs and a shorter steeping time. You can add milk and sugar to taste.
- Heat water to boiling.
- Add one teaspoon of fresh herbs per cup.
- Steep the tea for two minutes.
- Remove tea leaves and serve hot or cold.
Bottom line
The health benefits of drinking herbal teas are numerous. All you need are the right ingredients and a little know-how. With these instructions on how to brew herbal tea, you can try a new variety each day and enjoy the many benefits of a healthier lifestyle.