6) How to brew a good cup of Tea
Brewing a good herbal tea is easy. It only requires good tea, good water and a strainer or tea press. Using fresh bulk herbs for teas instead of tea bags makes a great tasting tea. Tea bags are usually older, sometimes stale and most use bleached tea bags (which you wouldn’t want to include in your brew).
To make an herbal infusion (herbs steeped in boiling water) begin by bringing purified water to a boil. Measure out your herbal tea into another glass or ceramic container. Use 1 tsp of bulk tea per 8oz of water. Pour boiling water over the tea, cover it and let it steep for 10 – 20 minutes. Using a small strainer, pour the mixture through the strainer into your cup for drinking. You can also use a tea press by measuring the tea into the tea press, pouring the boiled water into the press, place top on lightly, wait 10 – 20 minutes and press and pour!
A decoction (simmering herbs over heat) is the method of brewing when you are using herbs that are mainly roots and/or barks. Decocting allows for the properties of the herbs to be extracted more effectively. In a covered stainless steel or glass pot, bring the herbs and water to a gentle boil together (using the same measurement: 1 tsp per 8 oz of water). Let simmer lightly for 30 – 45 min., strain and enjoy. You can always make a larger amount and store in the refrigerator for a couple of days. The shelf life for tea is only a couple of days (even in the refrigerator).
I like to strain mine into mason jars and take it with me for the day. It’s a great way to keep it in glass and keep it covered. Remember, it’s not a good idea to pour hot liquids in plastic or even to drink your good quality teas out of plastic. Try to use glass or ceramic whenever possible.
By: Anne Marshall, BA, LMT
Anne Marshall is the owner and resident herbalist at LifeThyme Café & Wellness in City Walk, Palm Coast, Florida www.lifethymewellness.com 386.597.2838
