With a real desire for clarification, the government has decided to break down the natural medication sector into three main families: aromatherapy, food supplements, and the one that interests us most today, phytotherapy.
From the Greek phytos, plants, and therapeuo, to heal, this traditional medicine is the main source of remedies derived from therapeutic plants, particularly through the use of herbal teas. Over time, this practice has become a societal and environmental issue and is beginning to establish itself as an essential part of daily routines.
On a daily basis, herbal teas can help prevent and relieve minor everyday ailments. It is therefore important to define herbal tea as a first step in a care pathway for benign pathologies. So, why not start making your own herbal teas? Then follow the guide!
THE BENEFITS
First, it is important to know the virtues of the plants you will be using. A little tip: On our Instagram account @entredeuxhaies, you'll find information about plants, recipes, and don't hesitate to ask us your questions!
THE PLANTS
After choosing your plants, determine which part of the plant you will use. Indeed, leaves (such as lemon balm, sage, raspberry, etc.) and buds (such as rose or Roman chamomile) are more fragile and do not require the same preparation as roots (such as echinacea or valerian).
THE PREPARATION
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Infusion (flowers, leaves, and buds)
This involves pouring hot water (preferably at 70°C) directly over the chosen plants and letting them infuse for the necessary time (2 to 3 minutes in general).
Good to know: you can also let the plants infuse cold for 1 to 2 hours.
- Decoction (roots and bark)
This involves boiling cold water in which you have previously incorporated the plants. The boiling time varies depending on the plants used, ranging from 3 to 10 minutes.
Our advice: Make sure to mix plants that require the same type of preparation. But if not, you can first start the decoction and, once off the heat, add the rest of the mixture.
Furthermore, as a treatment, herbal tea should be consumed regularly and following a natural cycle (between 21 and 28 days). Thus, it offers the opportunity to vary tastes and pleasures, and most importantly, to adapt it to your needs.
