How to Make a Herbal Infusion (Steeping Dried or Fresh Herbs in Hot Water)

Overview

A herbal infusion is a method of extracting the medicinal properties, flavors, and nutrients from herbs by steeping them in hot water. Infusions are commonly used for teas, tonics, and medicinal remedies, especially for delicate plant parts like leaves, flowers, and soft stems.

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Materials Needed

• Dried or fresh herbs (e.g., chamomile, peppermint, nettle, lemon balm, elderflower)
• Filtered or spring water
• Teapot, heatproof glass jar, or French press
• Kettle or pot for boiling water
• Strainer or fine mesh sieve
• Mug or glass bottle for drinking/storage

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Step-by-Step Process

1. Choose Your Herbs

Select herbs based on their medicinal benefits:

Condition	Recommended Herbs
Relaxation & Sleep	Chamomile, Lemon Balm, Lavender
Digestion	Peppermint, Fennel, Ginger
Immunity Boost	Elderflower, Echinacea, Thyme
Energy & Focus	Green Tea, Yerba Mate, Rosemary
Detox & Cleansing	Nettle, Dandelion, Burdock Root

2. Measure the Herbs

• Dried herbs: Use 1–2 teaspoons per cup of water.
• Fresh herbs: Use 1–2 tablespoons per cup of water (since they contain more moisture).

3. Heat the Water

• Bring water to a gentle boil (around 190–205°F or 88–96°C).
• For delicate herbs (like flowers & leaves): Use water just off the boil (not boiling) to avoid destroying volatile oils.
• For tougher herbs (like roots & barks): Boiling water is needed, or consider making a decoction instead.

4. Steep the Herbs

• Pour the hot water over the herbs in a heatproof container.
• Cover with a lid (to prevent essential oils from evaporating).
• Steep for 5–15 minutes for a light infusion (tea).
• Steep for 30 minutes to several hours for a strong medicinal infusion.

5. Strain and Serve

• Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove plant material.
• Drink warm, or let it cool and refrigerate for later use (up to 24 hours).

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Additional Tips

✅ For a stronger infusion, steep overnight and drink throughout the next day.
✅ Add honey, lemon, or spices for extra flavor and medicinal benefits.
✅ Store extra infusion in the fridge and consume within 24 hours for freshness.
✅ For roots and barks, simmer for 15–30 minutes instead of steeping (this is called a decoction).