How to make tea from herbs?

The preparation and use of herbal teas is becoming increasingly popular as people’s interest in natural remedies grows. The healing power of the active ingredients found in herbs has long been known, but for these substances to truly take effect, it is essential to apply the correct preparation methods.

It is important that herbal teas are not only effective but also safe. Poor quality or contaminated herbs can not only fail to help but may even be harmful. Therefore, it is crucial for consumers to be aware of what to look for and how to prepare herbal teas for maximum effectiveness.

When making herbal tea, attention must be paid not only to quality but also to the appropriate preparation method. Different parts of the plant have varying active ingredient content, and the recommended procedures vary depending on which part is used.

The Quality of Herbal Teas

The effectiveness of herbal teas is closely related to the quality of the plants used. Pharmacopoeial quality (Ph. Hg.VIII.) ensures that the product truly contains the necessary active ingredients and is free from harmful contaminants such as heavy metals or pesticides.

When purchasing herbal tea, it is advisable to carefully review the information on the packaging. Well-documented products include the area of application, dosage, and preparation method. This helps the consumer know exactly what to expect and how to get the most out of the chosen herbal tea.

Different parts of various herbs also contain different active ingredients. Leaves, flowers, roots, barks, and fruits all contain different therapeutic components, and it is important to choose the right part to achieve the desired effect.

Methods of Preparing Herbal Tea

When preparing herbal teas, three main methods can be applied, depending on which part of the plant is used. The first and most common method is making an infusion, which is most recommended for leaves and flowers. In this case, the herb is poured with boiling water, covered, and allowed to steep for 10-20 minutes, then strained.

The second method is decoction, which is used for tougher plant parts, such as roots or barks. Here, the plant must be boiled for a longer time to ensure that the active ingredients are properly extracted into the water.

The third option is cold water infusion, which is used for plants where the active ingredients break down due to heat. This procedure is particularly important for rose hips, where vitamin C is heat-sensitive. During cold water infusion, the herb should be left in water for an extended period, up to 3-5 hours, and then strained.

Preparing and Flavoring Herbal Tea Blends

When creating herbal tea blends, various herbs can be used, and by combining different parts, the desired effect can be achieved. The infusion method is the most advantageous for preparing tea blends. It is important to consider that tougher parts, such as roots, require a longer steeping time for the active ingredients to be released.

There is also the option to flavor the prepared tea. Sugar or honey can be used, but care should be taken to add honey only when the tea is at a drinkable temperature. Diabetics are advised to avoid sweetening with sugar.

Additional Important Information About Herbal Teas

The packaging of herbal teas usually contains recommended dosage guidelines. It is important for consumers to pay attention to what purposes the teas can be used for, and how much plant material, with what amount of water and method, should be used. Well-documented products help users maximize the beneficial effects of herbal teas.

If there are any questions, it is advisable to consult literature or seek the assistance of a pharmacist. The conscious use of herbal teas can contribute to the maintenance of our health, which is why proper information and the application of appropriate preparation methods are essential.