Anett Elek Photography
Cup & Treat
Did You know that all types of tea come from the same basic plant? The Camellia Sinensis plant. Yes that is right. And do You know that a herbal tea is not really a tea. It is a tisane /təˈzan/.
Tisanes are beverages made from the infusion or decoction of herbs, spices, or other plant material in hot water. They do not usually contain caffeine.
Welcome here, to this page, I am a freelance photographer who got into some tea / herbal staff...
Where do I source my herbs?
(This is not an endorsement of any company.) I try to grow some fresh herbs in my pots, like mint for example but I order my herbs online from companies like FeelGood Organics, Frontier Co-Op, Davidson's, Starvest Botanicals, Mountain Rose Herbs. When I order I aim products with the organic sign.
Is there any harm in drinking herbal teas on a daily basis?
For the most part herbs are very safe... use in moderation / common sense. If you consume massive doses from herbals that is the only trouble you'd have or if you are allergic to it. If you are not sure ask your pharmacist or your doctor.
Why should I cover my steeping tisane?
When we are hot brewing our herbs it is recommended to cover your tea cup so that the steam doesn’t escape. Why this is important? Because the herbs contain essential oils. When you do not cover your tea cup these essential oils will evaporate out of your herbal tea with it’s steam.
Is there a difference between hot brewing and cold brewing?
Absolutely. Most of us know what is hot brewing but not everyone knows about cold brewing. I am cold brewing 80% of my tisanes. (Yep! It is my thing I guess.) Certain spices / herbs just need that hot brew and because it has sometimes better / different health benefits; but what about the others? I suggest you to try both with the same tisane. Make a cold brew and a hot brew and then put the glasses in front of you and sip it slowly. You will feel and see the difference. Then you can decide which one you like better. For cold brewing all you have to do is mix your herbs with the water before you go to sleep and "voila" when you wake up your tea is ready. If you brew your tisane by day - specially if you live under hot climate - I suggest put your brewing vessel in the fridge min. for 4 hours or longer no problem it will not have a bitter taste even after 8 hours. If you would like to brew faster you can leave it outside on the kitchen counter, as the temperature is warmer compare to the fridge, after 1, max. 2 hours your tisane is ready. Do not leave too long outside your tisane if you are not going to drink it because it promotes the growth of bacteria. So if you did not drink your tisane, just keep refrigerated!
How soon I can see result?
Herbals do not work like the prescription drugs. Assume you may need between six weeks to six months for herbal remedies to sufficiently support the body long enough to help your body start to heal a chronic health condition. It is a lifestyle, rather than a quick fix but begin to support your body herbally for a healthier future.
Health Care Disclaimer:
The choice to self-treat with herbal remedies or other natural remedies is a personal one. The health care information presented here should not take the place of personal medical advice from your health care professional. Please consult with your healthcare professional before adding herbal remedies to your diet.
I am posting my thoughts as a mini blog on Instagram . You can find me on Etsy aswell.
This article is not an endorsement of any company