For centuries, herbal teas have been one of the simplest and most effective ways to enjoy the healing power of plants. Unlike capsules or extracts, tea engages all the senses—aroma, taste, warmth—while gently delivering plant compounds to the body. But not all herbal teas are brewed the same way. Leaves, flowers, roots, and barks each require different preparation to unlock their benefits.
If you’ve ever wondered why your chamomile tea tastes weak or why your ginger doesn’t feel strong enough, the answer may lie in your brewing method. This guide will walk you through the best ways to brew herbs so you get maximum potency and flavor from every cup.
The Basics of Herbal Tea Brewing
When preparing herbal teas, there are two main methods: infusions and decoctions. The method you choose depends on the part of the plant you’re working with.
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Infusions are best for delicate plant parts like flowers, leaves, and soft stems.
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Decoctions are used for tougher plant materials such as roots, barks, seeds, and rhizomes.
Understanding this difference ensures you extract the right compounds without damaging the herb.
Infusions – For Leaves, Flowers, and Soft Herbs
Infusions are what most people think of when they hear the word “tea.” They’re quick, simple, and preserve the delicate flavors of aromatic herbs.
How to Make an Infusion:
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Use 1–2 teaspoons of dried herbs (or 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs) per cup of water.
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Bring water to a boil, then pour over the herbs.
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Cover the cup or teapot to keep in the volatile oils.
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Steep 5–15 minutes, depending on the herb.
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Strain and enjoy.
Examples of Herbs for Infusion:
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Chamomile – soothing and relaxing
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Peppermint – cooling and digestive
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Lavender – calming and aromatic
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Goji berries – lightly sweet and nourishing
Decoctions – For Roots, Barks, and Seeds
Decoctions are a stronger method that extracts the dense compounds found in harder plant materials.
How to Make a Decoction:
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Use 1–2 teaspoons of dried herb per cup of water.
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Place herbs and water in a small pot.
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Simmer gently for 20–40 minutes.
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Strain and drink warm.
Examples of Herbs for Decoction:
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Coptis root – bitter, cleansing
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Astragalus – energy and immune tonic
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Licorice root – harmonizer and sweetener
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Ginger root – warming and digestive
Combining Herbs into Blends
Many herbal teas combine multiple herbs to create balance in both flavor and function. This is especially true in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda, where herbs are rarely used alone.
Popular Combinations:
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Relaxation Blend: chamomile + lavender + lemon balm
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Immune Support Blend: astragalus + ginger + licorice
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Energy & Focus Blend: ginseng + peppermint + schisandra
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Detox Blend: coptis + dandelion root + burdock root
When blending, it’s important to pair strong herbs (like bitter roots) with sweeter or aromatic herbs for balance.
Tips for Brewing the Perfect Herbal Tea
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Use filtered water: The quality of your water affects the final taste.
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Cover your tea while brewing: Prevents delicate oils from escaping.
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Adjust steeping time: Longer steeping = stronger tea, but may also increase bitterness.
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Experiment with dosage: Start with the standard amount and adjust to taste and need.
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Drink consistently: Herbal teas often work best when enjoyed daily over time.
When to Drink Herbal Teas
Different herbs shine at different times of day:
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Morning: Ginseng, ginger, peppermint, or schisandra for energy and focus.
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Afternoon: Goji berry or turmeric blends for gentle nourishment.
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Evening: Chamomile, lavender, or passionflower for calming the mind.
Safety Notes
Not all herbs are safe for everyone. Some may interact with medications, while others should be avoided during pregnancy or certain conditions. Always research your herbs and consult with a qualified practitioner if unsure.
Final Thoughts
Herbal teas are more than just warm drinks—they are time-tested remedies that support the body and mind. Whether you’re sipping a calming lavender infusion at night or a robust astragalus decoction during the day, brewing herbs the right way ensures you enjoy their full potential.
Start experimenting with single herbs, then move into blends that match your wellness goals. With a little practice, you’ll unlock a whole world of flavor and function in your teacup.
Looking for high-quality dried herbs for your teas? Explore our collection at LAHerb.com and start brewing with confidence.
