Many medicinal herbs are ideal to consume as a tea or 'herbal infusion.' Arial herbs, (or the plants where you use the above ground parts), are preferred for teas.
These are medicinal herbs inclusive of, but not limited too: Mullein, Tulsi, Passionflower, Hibiscus, Lemon Balm, most in the mint family, Nettles, Yarrow, Meadowsweet, Cats Whiskers. These and many more arial plants give medicinal chemical compounds in a water extraction, aka, a cup of tea.
These herbs can be utilised freshly picked from the garden or dried. There is often a slight difference in taste between fresh and dried herbs and often it comes down to availability and personal preference.
With purchased herbal medicine infusions; such as our herbal teas, usually a guide is given as to the amount of herb and water and that should be used.
These are informed guides to be individually worked with. This is because just as humans are all different shapes and sizes, so is the amount of herbal tea you may require. For example, a small person would require a less potent tea than a larger person. Someone very unwell would require a stronger tea than someone with a slight sniffle.
TO MAKE A HERBAL INFUSION:
Ratios for a fresh herb: 2tbs-4tbs infused with one mug of water, dependant on the herb and your desired strength. Fresh herbs contain water and as such more of the herb is required.
Often you can use the herbs twice, to make a second weaker infusion and ensure that you are utilising all of the plant goodness available.
Herbal tea should be looked at as ‘natural medicine’ and ‘supportive tonics’ and consumed as such. You wouldn’t take a painkiller or antihistamine if your body did not require it and the same should be said of certain herbs. It is important to learn about the 'supportive tonics' versus the 'sometimes' herbs.
Natural medicine is to be worked with to establish what feels right and helpful for you. It is a constant process of reassessment, establishing what your body requires, and putting the autonomy of your health and wellbeing back into your hands.
We encourage you to empower yourself and hope that you find the journey of learning and connecting with nature enjoyable.