Our herbal tea guide. From infusion to tea, the details that make the difference

Heat the water, leave the necessary time to infuse, without being in a hurry, drink your herbal tea in small sips. It seems obvious, but behind this small routine there is a world.  That of herbal teas and infusions is a multifaceted and still unexplored universe, which does not enjoy the millennial tradition and literature of the tea sector, but which has a story to tell. A story made of procedures, necessary slowness and precise characteristics. Ingredients, time and respect are all important elements of Wilden’s philosophy.

In this article we will explain how to prepare a herbal tea. Let’s start from the basics: what is the right way to prepare a herbal tea? What is the difference between infusion and herbal tea? And what role does tea play? 

Infusions, herbal teas and tea: differences 

Herbal infusions are the easiest way to consume and benefit from the oils and flavors of herbs. When we talk about infusion we refer to the maceration (soaking) process of herbs in water. A time directly proportional to the degree of water absorption of oils and flavors. The drink resulting from the infusion is therefore a perfect balance of taste and beneficial effects. Herbal tea is certainly a form of infusion, as it is created by infusing the herb leaves in hot water, but the resulting drink is lighter – but not less tasty – due to the soaking period, which remains rather short.

The real infusions, those that draw on an alchemical and almost magical knowledge, handed down in memory in the form of curative dips, are generally prepared using roots, buds, leaves and flowers of the plant. A substantial difference of the infusions (and therefore the herbal teas) from the teas is that the latter use only the leaves in the maceration process. Herbal tea can therefore be considered a shorter infusion, while real infusions are sometimes called “long infusions” to distinguish them from teas. Finally, a common feature of herbal teas and infusions is the absence of caffeine. That’s why these drinks are tonic and energetic, without interfering with the circadian rhythms.

Whether you prefer loose herbs or herbal teas, make sure that the dried plants in the bag or filter are relatively whole and have a vibrant color. The more intact the herbs, the greater the content of oils and biochemical compounds contained, which means that the health benefits and flavor you will get from the herbs will be more evident.

Now that we know what it is, let’s prepare a cup of herbal tea!

• Heat the water. The hotter it is, the more effective the infusion will be.
• Pour into the cup and let your herbal tea rest for as long as necessary (follow the instructions on the sachet).
• If possible, cover the infusion, so that the aromas and flavors do not evaporate
• Let it cool down. Nobody likes to drink a hot drink
• Enjoy your herbal tea

The elements that contribute to balance a herbal tea are many: the teapot, the water and above all, the herbal tea. Finding time for a herbal tea is an act of love towards our body and an action to contrast the daily imposed speed. For this reason, even before enjoying a herbal tea, it is important to learn to recognize and appreciate its benefits, starting right from its preparation.