A herbal infusion is a drink made by steeping plant ingredients in water. You may also see the words herbal tea or tisane used for this kind of drink. The different names can sound confusing, but a packet of herbal tea bags is a familiar way to make an infusion at home.
Why is it called an infusion?
To infuse means to let an ingredient steep in liquid. During brewing, flavour and colour move into the water. Once the drink has brewed, you remove the tea bag or strain out the loose ingredients. An infusion describes this preparation method; it does not tell you which plant is in the cup.
How is it different from black tea?
Black and green tea come from the tea plant, Camellia sinensis. Herbal infusions use other plants. Depending on the product, that can mean leaves, flowers, roots or a mixture. The UK Tea & Infusions Association explains this distinction in its guide to infusions.
Choosing your first infusion
Start with a flavour that interests you and read the ingredients. A single-ingredient product can make it easier to get to know an unfamiliar plant. For example, you can explore lemongrass alongside the other teas in our range. Compare the actual ingredients rather than choosing only by the colour of the packaging.
Making a cup at home
Use the preparation directions for your chosen tea, then taste it plain before adding anything. Keep the packet nearby so you can repeat the method. A cup, water and a tea bag may be all you need; loose ingredients usually need a strainer or infuser.
Keep exploring
Read our Herbal Tea Bags vs Loose Leaf: What’s the Difference? for more ideas.
For another introduction to our range, download the free K&M Herbs herbal tea and wellness book.