Herbal infusions, also known as tisanes, are beverages made by steeping herbs, fruits, flowers, roots, or other plant materials in hot water. Unlike true teas, which come from the Camellia sinensis plant, infusions can be made from a wide variety of plants and are typically caffeine-free.
Origin: Various, worldwide
Plant: Various herbs, flowers, roots, and spices
Processing: Typically dried and blended
Popular Types:
- Chamomile: Made from daisy-like flowers, known for its calming properties
- Peppermint: Made from peppermint leaves, offers a cooling and refreshing taste
- Ginger: Made from the root of the ginger plant, known for its spicy and warming qualities
- Hibiscus: Made from hibiscus flowers, provides a tart and fruity flavor
- Lemongrass: Made from the leaves of the lemongrass plant, offers a lemony and herbaceous taste
- Lavender: Made from lavender buds, known for its floral and relaxing properties
Flavor Profiles: Herbal infusions can have a wide range of flavors depending on their ingredients. They can be floral, fruity, spicy, earthy, or minty. Many herbal blends combine multiple ingredients to create complex and balanced flavor profiles.
Health Benefits: The potential health benefits of herbal infusions vary widely depending on their ingredients. Some common benefits include:
- Relaxation and stress relief (e.g., chamomile, lavender)
- Digestive aid (e.g., peppermint, ginger)
- Immune system support (e.g., echinacea, elderberry)
- Antioxidant properties (e.g., hibiscus, rooibos)
- Sleep promotion (e.g., valerian root, passionflower)
Preparation: Most herbal infusions are prepared by steeping the dried herbs in boiling water (212°F / 100°C) for 5-10 minutes. However, more delicate herbs may require lower temperatures or shorter steeping times. Always refer to specific preparation instructions for each blend.
