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Not all tea is equal...

Writer's picture: Louise NobleLouise Noble

The Ultimate Guide to Herbal Teas: Quality, Benefits, and Top Brands


Step into the vibrant world of Studio Eight, where herbs meet expertise! Recently, we were thrilled to host a captivating herbal tea making workshop led by our resident plant biologist and medical herbalist extraordinaire, Katie Pande. Katie, with a stellar background including seven years at a renowned B-Corp herbal tea brand (hint: rhymes with Dukka), has played a pivotal role in crafting the teas that grace our supermarket shelves and kitchens today. During our workshop, we delved deep into the nuances of tea quality, emphasizing the importance of selecting brews that truly enhance our well-being. Join us on an exciting journey as we dive into the realm of herbal teas, comparing beloved brands and uncovering their myriad health benefits.


Herbal tea, a beverage cherished for its myriad health benefits and soothing qualities, has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. Unlike traditional teas derived from the Camellia sinensis plant, herbal teas are crafted from a variety of dried fruits, flowers, spices, and herbs. This article delves into what herbal tea is, its benefits, the grading system of teas, and a review of popular brands to help you make informed choices for your tea-drinking experience.


 

What is Herbal Tea?


Herbal tea, also known as tisane, is a beverage made by steeping various plant materials in hot water. These materials can include leaves, flowers, seeds, and roots from a diverse array of plants. Unlike traditional black, green, or oolong teas, herbal teas do not contain caffeine unless blended with caffeinated tea leaves.


How is Herbal Tea Beneficial to Us?


Herbal teas offer numerous health benefits, largely dependent on the specific herbs used. Common advantages include...


Relaxation and Stress Relief

Herbs like chamomile, lavender, and valerian are renowned for their calming effects, helping to alleviate anxiety and promote better sleep.


Digestive Health

Ingredients such as peppermint, ginger, and fennel aid in digestion, reduce bloating, and relieve gastrointestinal discomfort.


Immune Support

Herbs like echinacea and elderberry boost the immune system, helping to fend off colds and infections.


Detoxification

Dandelion and nettle are often used for their detoxifying properties, supporting liver and kidney function.


 

Tea Grading...Not All Teas Are Equal


Tea grading is an essential factor in determining the quality, potency, and effectiveness of tea. The grading system primarily refers to the size and quality of the tea leaves post-processing. Here’s a breakdown:


1. Whole Leaf Teas

Considered the highest quality, these teas consist of large, intact leaves that retain the most flavor and nutrients.


2. Broken Leaf Teas

Slightly lower in quality, these teas are made from smaller leaf fragments but still offer good flavor and benefits.


3. Fannings and Dust

These are the smallest particles left after processing and are often used in mass-produced tea bags. While they infuse quickly, they can lack the complexity and potency of higher-grade teas.


 

Key Herbs and Plants Used in Popular Teas


Using her experience and expertise, Katie has produced a small selection of taster packs which are for sale at the Studio for just £1.00 per pack. These tasters combine some of the more popular herbs and plants. We have summarised some of the key benefits of Katies amazing teas below.


Sweet Dreams Tea


Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)

Valerian is a herb commonly used for its sedative and anxiety-reducing properties. When included in a herbal tea blend, valerian can contribute to promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality. Valerian has a strong, somewhat unpleasant odor, often compared to dirty socks or wet dog. This is why it is usually blended with more palatable herbs to mask the taste and smell. Some blends use a smaller quantity of valerian or combine it with flavourful herbs to create a more pleasant drinking experience


Passion Flower (Passiflora incarnata)

Passion flower contains flavonoids, alkaloids, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).It enhances GABA levels in the brain, which helps to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Known for its calming properties, passion flower can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. It is often used in blends aimed at promoting relaxation and stress relief. Passion flower has a mild, slightly sweet flavour that blends well with other herbs.


Lime Flower (Tilia spp.)

Lime Flower contains flavonoids, mucilage, and volatile oils, it acts as a mild sedative and anti-inflammatory agent.Lime flower is used to relieve tension, anxiety, and insomnia. It also has soothing properties that can help alleviate digestive discomfort and support respiratory health. It offers a delicate, sweet, and floral flavor that enhances the overall taste of any tea.


Three Flowers Tea


Rose (Rosa spp.)

Rose is rich in antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, and contains volatile oils. The antioxidants support overall health, while the volatile oils contribute to its calming effects.

Known for its soothing properties, rose can help reduce stress and anxiety. It also promotes skin health and aids digestion.

Rose provides a sweet, floral, and slightly fruity flavour, adding a pleasant aroma to tea blends.



Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavender contains linalool, linalyl acetate, and other essential oils. These essential oils have calming and sedative effects, helping to promote relaxation. Commonly used to reduce anxiety, improve sleep quality, and alleviate headaches. It also has anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. Lavender offers a sweet, floral, and slightly woody flavor, often used to enhance the fragrance of tea blends.


Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

Chamomile contains apigenin, a flavonoid with sedative properties, and other essential oils.

Apigenin binds to GABA receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and sleep.Widely used for its calming effects, chamomile helps with anxiety, insomnia, and digestive issues. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Chamomile has a mild, apple-like flavor that is soothing and pleasant.


Cleanse and Detox Tea


Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

Dandelion is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants like beta-carotene. It acts as a diuretic and detoxifier, supporting liver and digestive health. Used to aid digestion, promote liver function, and support detoxification. It also has mild laxative effects and is rich in nutrients.

Dandelion Provides an earthy, slightly bitter flavor that can be balanced with sweeter herbs.


Marigold (Calendula officinalis)

Marigold contains flavonoids, triterpenoids, and carotenoids. It exhibits anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and healing properties. Known for its ability to support skin health, reduce inflammation, and aid digestion. It also boosts the immune system. Marigold has a mild, slightly peppery flavor that adds depth to tea blends.


Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Fennel contains anethole, a compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

It acts as a carminative, relieving bloating and digestive discomfort. Commonly used to support digestive health, reduce bloating, and improve appetite. It also has mild diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects. Fennel offers a sweet, licorice-like flavor that complements other herbs in a blend.



Popular Herbal Tea Brands: In Review...

There are many herbal tea brands out there competing for our attention, and our spend.

We took a look at a handful of examples to help you make a decision on which is the right brand for you.


1. Yogi Tea


Quality

Yogi Tea uses organic ingredients, with a strong focus on health benefits and functionality.

Grade

Mostly whole and broken leaf teas.

Potency

High, due to the careful selection and combination of herbs.

Effectiveness

Excellent, particularly for stress relief and digestion. Their "Bedtime" and "Throat Comfort" blends are highly recommended.

Conclusion

Yogi Tea offers a reliable and health-focused range of herbal teas that deliver on their promises.



2. Pukka


Quality

Known for its commitment to organic and ethically sourced ingredients.

Grade

High-quality whole and broken leaves.

Potency

High, with blends designed to maximise the therapeutic benefits of the herbs.

Effectiveness

Very effective, especially for relaxation and detoxification. Blends like "Three Ginger" and "Night Time" are popular for their robust benefits.

Conclusion

Pukka is a top choice for those seeking potent and high-quality herbal teas with clear health benefits. Pukka also carries B-Corp status which ensures ethics and quality beyond their tea blends to the transparency of their supply chain, commitment to their workers and a whole lot more.



3. Twinings


Quality

Offers a range of both organic and non-organic teas, with a focus on flavor and accessibility.

Grade

Mix of broken leaves and fannings.

Potency

Moderate, suitable for daily enjoyment but less concentrated than premium brands.

Effectiveness

Good, particularly for general wellbeing and mild health benefits. Their "Pure Camomile" and "Peppermint" teas are widely enjoyed.

Conclusion

Twinings is a reliable option for flavorful, everyday herbal teas, though they may not be as potent as specialist brands.



4. Smaller Local Brands


Quality

Can vary widely; some local producers use very high-quality, fresh, and organic ingredients.

Grade

Often whole leaves or larger broken leaves, depending on the producer.

Potency

Can be very high, especially if the herbs are freshly sourced.

Effectiveness

Potentially excellent, though consistency can vary. It's essential to research or try different local brands.

Conclusion

Local brands can offer exceptional quality and potency, rivaling or exceeding larger brands, but require careful selection.


Choosing the best herbal tea involves understanding the nuances of tea grading, recognizing the benefits of high-quality ingredients, and selecting reputable brands. Herbal teas like those from Yogi, Pukka, and even some local producers offer a range of health benefits, from relaxation to improved digestion. Twinings provides a reliable and enjoyable experience for everyday consumption.


For tea drinkers looking for the best experience, prioritize brands that use high-quality, organic ingredients and offer potent blends tailored to your needs. Whether you seek relaxation, better sleep, or digestive support, there's a herbal tea out there to enhance your wellbeing and delight your senses.


Now get the kettle on!


Louise & Nat



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