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Teas: Decoctions, Infusions.... Confusion!

There are many different types of tea preparation. The method used depends on the herb itself, and the consumer's preference to a certain extent.

Infusion

This is used for the fragile parts of the plant such as the leaf or flower. Click here for some recommended herbs for an infusion.

  1. Use approximately one teaspoon of dried herb to one cup of boiling water.
  2. Stir, cover and let steep for 10 minutes.
  3. Strain and enjoy hot or cold, with or without honey.

Decoction

This is used for the more robust parts of the plant such as root, stem, seed or fruit.  Click here for some recommended herbs for a decoction.

  1. Use one ounce of dried herb to 3 cups of boiling water.
  2. Add to saucepan and simmer for 15 minutes.
  3. Let steep for a further 10 minutes.
  4. Strain and enjoy hot or cold, with or without honey.

Using a Drip Coffee Maker

  1. Place the herb(s) in the glass jug, add boiling water and let it steep on the hot surface.
  2. Stand 5-10 minutes for an infusion, and 30 minutes for a decoction.