How to make a nice cup of herbal tea

Brewing time

To make a nice cup of herbal tea, brewing time is crucial. All essential oils, flavours and active substances must be absorbed by the water. In general, you can let herbal teas brew for as long as you like, but a few herbs, e.g., chamomile flowers, may give off a bitter taste if you let the tea brew for too long.

Typical brewing time is 5-10 minutes - always look at the directions on each product. Regardless of tea type, preparation and brewing time, always put a lid on your pot when you brew tea to preserve the aroma, intensity and taste.

Water temperature

Unlike green teas, herbal teas require boiling water. Roots and bark must boil for some time. 

If your water has a high limestone content, use mineral water.

Use herbal tea as iced tea

You can also enjoy your herbal tea cold as part of your daily intake of liquids. Cold mint and roselle tea taste great with a bit of honey.

The teapot

Use a ceramics or porcelain pot - they are both porous materials that allow the tea to breathe. Warm up the pot before use to increase the time your tea stays hot.

Do NOT put a teapot in your dishwasher. Do NOT use detergent - just rinse after use.