How To {Properly} Make Herbal Teas and Infusions

Herbs are amazing. All around us, even in our own back yards, are herbs that are packed with nutrients that are beneficial to us in so many ways. For ages, we humans have relied on our knowledge of herbs to survive and thrive! This powerful medicine, when used appropriately and with knowledge and intention, can naturally balance our mind and body into a state of health.

From Baths, to Teas, Salves and more - we incorporate the power and ancient knowledge of Herbs and Essential Oils into our luxury line of herbal products which enhance the lives and health of the people we work with. We find that the more popular these methods of healing become, the more questions come up and potential bad advice can be given. It's important to respect the power of herbs and oils and to know what you are doing and why you are doing it when working with them. Intention and Knowledge are key. If you are not sure about something or are not trained in, you should absolutely consult with a professional. Don't rely on "google" research and remain skeptical of advice you get online. I am a trained professional and rely on that knowledge to create blends of oils and herbs for specific needs and are considered safe for virtually everyone...but, we all have specific circumstances that need to be considered. Allergies, conditions, etc. may all contribute to reasons why certain herbs and oils may not be right for you. Pay attention to your body's reaction to everything you use and if it doesn't feel right, stop using it and consult your doctor or a professional. 

THAT being said, let's talk about the proper way to brew teas and infusions and let's also discuss the difference. 

So...what's the difference between a tea and an infusion? Basically - time and potency. When herbs are introduced to hot water they release their nutrients (vitamins, minerals, etc). The longer the herbs are in the water, the stronger and more concentrated the water becomes with the nutrients of the herb. A cup of tea can be brewed anywhere between a couple of minutes to generally no more than 20. In contrast, an infusion will sit for hours. 


I'm sure that many of us know how to brew a cup of tea, but, I bet a lot of people don't - so I'm going to break down the brewing possibilities here for you. I also recommend checking out Susun Weed's "How To Make Infusions". 

Brewing Tea:
There are a few different options here. There is the loose leaf method, or you can use a wire mesh ball, paper or cloth tea bags which contains the herbs (either pre-made or manually stuffed and sealed). There are other ways as well, but we're going to focus on your basic brewing method using a ball or tea bag.

Boil water in a pot - preferably something NOT aluminum. Once boiling remove from heat. Put herbs into bag or ball (or if you are just using a disposable bag you can just toss that in) and simply let it sit!  You can add honey and/or coconut oil if you desire (it's a great way to get coconut oil into your diet). 

Generally - Covered is better, longer is stronger. 

Brewing an Infusion:

Brewing Infusions:
An infusion is used when a stronger form of the herbs is required or desired. This is common with baths and to make large batches to make ice cubes out of and add to hot water for quick tea. 

Bath Teas can be used directly poured into the tub. If you are using a herbal bath to heal the perineum after birth, it is advised you make an infusion and put into a peri-bottle or put on pads and frozen to help heal after the birth. If using in a Peri-Bottle, simply fill halfway with the infusion and add hot or cold water to the rest and use as normal. The herbs will help reduce swelling and begin healing any tears while also providing soothing aromatherapy to ease bathroom anxiety after birth. 


Our Sitz-Bath also comes with 3 regular size tea bags to use in the hospital by simply ordering a large hot water and allowing a bag to brew in it throughout your labor. 1 bag per big cup should get you through your stay and then the infusion pack (which yields 1 gallon of Infusion as seen above) can be brewed when you get home. Some people order an extra pack to make ice pads out of - which, I know might sound crazy that you would want to ice your vagina....but, trust us - Ice Pads are the best thing EVER. 

Happy Brewing!