|
Herbal
Teas Questions &
Answers
Herb Teas….Some Common Questions
1. Can fresh and dried herbs be used?
Yes! Both from can be used but be sure of a plants
identity before you pick and used it.
2. Should I worry about the quality of herbs I buy?
If you are using dried material buy from a reputable
supplier where quality and purity will be priority. Tea bag formulations
are generally of high quality.
3. Which parts of the plant are used?
Leaves, flowers, roots, fruit and bark may also be
used.
4. How much tea is it safe for me to use?
The majority of herbs are safe to drink freely….3 or
4 cups daily. There are guide-lines for use below for children and in
pregnancy. If in doubt contact your local herbalist.
5. What is a tisane exactly and how can it be used?
A tisane is another word for tea or infusion, a method
of extracting active materials from the herb. It is best made in a teapot
or in a thermos flask for plants that are very aromatic (Peppermint,
chamomile etc). In this way the active constituents are contained and do
not simply float away. Tisanes may be used as a wash, in the bath for the
hair, to wash the skin, or as a compress.
6. What about pregnancy?
If you are pregnant herbs can be very beneficial for
you, for specific advice contact a herbalist. Herbs to avoid during the
first stages of pregnancy are celery, cinnamon, parsley, and sage (which
should be avoided if you are breast feeding as it may reduce milk supply).
Please note this does not mean these herbs should not be used for culinary
purposes.
7. How do I store my herbs?
Dried herbs should be store in cool, dark, airtight
conditions and will normally keep well for a maximum of 6 months. If you
grow and harvest your own, make sure you clearly label the storage
container.
8. What quantities should I use?
25g infused in a pint of water is a good guide-line,
but you may like to increase or reduce this depending upon your own taste.
9. How do I make herb tea?
Standard Infusion: Add 1oz (25g) of dried herbs (2oz if
fresh) to 1 pint of (600ml) of boiling water, or 1 teaspoon per cup. Place
the herbs in a warm pot and add boiling water. Leave to infuse for 5 to 10
minutes according to taste. This will keep fresh for up to two days in the
fridge. Dosage 3-4 cups daily.
Standard Decoction: Decoctions involve boiling material
in order to extract principles from hard woody materials such as bark,
root, seeds, rhizomes and nuts. It is useful to break these materials down
to smaller parts using a mortar and pestle or coffee-grinder, before using
them.
Method: Use the same
proportions as for an infusion. Adding a little extra water for that which
may be lost in boiling. Place the materials in a non-aluminium saucepan
and cover with cold water. Bring to boil, cover and simmer for 10 – 15
minutes. Strain and drink in the same dosage as infusions.
*Both Methods may be used to extract herbs for using as
washes or to add to bath water, e.g. Chamomile, Marigold, Lavender.
Additional reading:
‘Herb Teas an A-Z’ – Andrew
Chevallier, Amberwood
1994.
|
IMPORTANT NOTICE
It is advisable to seek
professional guidance before self-administering herbal
remedies. Members of the National Institute of Medical
Herbalists have completed a minimum of 4 years training in
phytotherapy and medical sciences, including a minimum of 500 hours
clinical practice. They are governed by a strict code of ethics and
are comprehensively covered by insurance. The provision of herbal
medicine is covered by some private health insurance companies and
may be available locally within an NHS setting. Herbal medicine
provides an effective method for treating both acute and chronic
health problems. It is part of a holistic, tailored approach to the
individual encompassing advice on lifestyle, stress management, and
optimum dietary practices to promote a positive health state. |
Source: National Institute of Medical Herbalists Ltd.
return to top
|
