Tisane, not true tea
Herbal tea
Reviewed April 2026
Herbal tea is not technically tea because it does not come from Camellia sinensis. It is an infusion of herbs, flowers, fruit, roots, bark, or spices.
CaffeineUsually caffeine-free, with exceptions
Temperature200 to 212°F
Time5 to 10 minutes
Ratio1 sachet or 2 to 4 g per 8 oz water
Compare all brewing temperatures
Flavor profile
Chamomile, mint, fruit, spice, root, floral, tart
Top 5 to know
- Chamomile
Soft, floral, bedtime-coded.
- Peppermint
Clean, cooling, assertive.
- Ginger
Spicy, warming, excellent with lemon.
- Hibiscus
Tart, ruby, strong iced.
- Lemon balm
Gentle, green, citrus-herbal.
Good for
- Evening cups
- Caffeine avoidance
- People who want flavor without tannin
Essential gear
Evidence notes
- Avoid medical claims unless backed by strong sources.
- Ingredient quality and freshness are more useful than wellness language.
- Steeping longer is often better for roots and flowers than for true tea.
Common questions
Is herbal tea technically tea?
Not usually. Most herbal teas are tisanes because they do not come from Camellia sinensis.
Can herbal tea steep longer than true tea?
Often, yes. Flowers, roots, bark, and spices usually tolerate longer steeps better than green or black tea.