Herbal tea has been enjoyed for centuries as a comforting, caffeine-free drink made from flowers, herbs, spices and botanicals. Whether you’re looking for a calming evening ritual, a refreshing daytime infusion or simply exploring loose leaf tea for the first time, this guide will help you understand the different types of herbal tea, how to brew them correctly and how to choose the right blend for your taste.
Popular Types of Herbal Tea
Herbal tea comes in many varieties, each offering its own flavour, aroma and character. Some are floral and delicate, while others are fresh, citrusy or naturally sweet. Here some of the most popular loose leaf teas:
• Chamomile – One of the world’s best-known herbal infusions with a gentle floral flavour. If you’re wondering how it compares with herbal tea in general, read our Chamomile vs Herbal Tea guide.
• Peppermint – Fresh, cooling and naturally caffeine-free
• Lemon Balm – A light citrusy herb with a gentle herbal flavour. Lavender – Floral and aromatic, often enjoyed in evening blends.
• Linden – Mild, smooth and subtly sweet.
• Honeybush – Naturally sweet with honey-like notes.
• Rooibos – A South African herbal infusion with a rich, earthy flavour.
• Hibiscus – Bright red with a naturally tart, fruity taste.
Benefits of Herbal Tea
Herbal tea is enjoyed around the world for many different reasons, while each botanical has its own unique flavour and charasteristics, many people appreciate loose leaf tea because it offers:
• Naturally caffeine free options.
• A relaxing and enjoyable daily ritual.
• A comforting hot drink that can be enjoyed throughout the day.
• An opportunity to explore different herbs and botanical ingredients.
Rather than focusing on specific health claims, many people simply enjoy herbal tea as part of a balanced lifestyle and a moment of calm.
How to Brew Herbal Tea
Brewing herbal tea correctly brings out the best flavour and aroma. Most herbal infusions benefit from freshly boiled or near-boiling water and a longer steeping time than traditional tea. For a detailed step-by-step guide, read our article How to Brew Loose Leaf Tea
How to Store Herbal Tea
Proper storage helps preserve the flavour and aroma of loose leaf herbal tea. Keep your tea in an airtight container away from direct sunlight, heat, moisture and strong odours. When stored correctly, herbal tea stays fresher for longer and delivers better cup every time. Learn more in our guide: How to Store Loose Leaf Tea
Loose Leaf Tea vs Tea Bags
Both loose leaf tea and tea bags have their place, but many tea drinkers prefer loose leaf because it often contains larger, higher-quality ingerdients that allow the botanicals to fully expand during brewing. This can create a more aromatic and flavourful cup. Read our full comparison in Loose Leaf Tea vs Tea Bags
Choosing the Right Herbal Tea
The best herbal infusion depends on your personal taste and occasion.
• Floral flavours: Chamomile, lavender and linden.
• Refreshing flavours: Peppermint and lemon balm.
• Naturally sweet flavours: Honeybush and rooibos.
• Bright citrus notes: Blends featuring orange peel or lemon myrtle.
Exploring different botanicals is one of the joys of loose leaf herbal tea, and many people enjoy building a small collection for different moments throughout the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does herbal tea contain caffeine?
Most herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free because they are not made from Camellia sinensis tea plant. However, always check the ingredients, as some blends may include traditional tea leaves.
How long should herbal tea be brewed?
In general, herbal teas taste best when brewed for 5 – 7 minutes using hot water between 90 – 95°C. Larger leaves and flowers often benefit from slightly longer infusion.
Can I reuse loose leaf herbal tea?
Yes. Many loose leaf herbal teas can be infused a second time, although the flavour will usually be lighter than the first brew.
What’s the difference between herbal tea and green tea?
Green tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant, while herbal tea is made from herbs, flowers, fruits, roots and spices.
Discover Stillway
At Stillway, we believe tea is more than a drink–it’s chance to slow down and enjoy a quiet moment. Our botanical infusions are thoughtfully crafted using premium ingredients to create blends that are naturally calming, beautifully balanced and enjoyable to drink. Explore our Soft Dusk No.1, and keep an eye for new botanical blends joining the Stillway range.