How to Brew Chinese Herbal Tea Like a TCM Practitioner: A Step-by-Step Guide

Brewing Chinese herbal tea is both an art and a science. The right technique unlocks the full potency of herbs, whether you’re seeking better sleep, digestion, or energy. Follow these expert tips to master the craft.

⏳ 1. Choose the Right Herbs for Your Needs

  • Sleep: Opt for jujube, lily, and chamomile.
  • Immunity: Select astragalus, licorice, and chrysanthemum.
  • Digestion: Go for ginger, peppermint, and hawthorn.

🔥 2. Water Temperature Matters (Based on Herb Type)

Herb Type Optimal Water Temperature Why?
Delicate flowers (chrysanthemum) 70-80°C (158-176°F) Preserves aromatic compounds
Roots (ginger, dandelion) 100°C (212°F) Extracts beneficial compounds
Leaves (peppermint) 85-90°C (185-194°F) Prevents bitterness

🫖 3. The Brewing Process: Step by Step

  1. Rinse the Herbs: Place 1-2 tsp of herbs in a teapot and pour hot water over them. Stir gently and discard the water to remove dust.
  2. Add Fresh Water: Use filtered water for the best taste.
  3. Steep for the Right Time:
    • Flowers & leaves: 5-8 minutes
    • Roots & berries: 10-15 minutes
  4. Strain & Serve: Add honey or lemon if desired, but avoid sugar to preserve herbal benefits.

🧰 4. Essential Tools for Traditional Brewing

  • Ceramic or glass teapot (avoids metal taste)
  • Bamboo strainer
  • Clay cups for retaining heat


Pro Tip: Re-steep your herbs! Most blends can be brewed 2-3 times, with the second steep often releasing more subtle flavors.


Conclusion
Mastering the art of brewing ensures you get the most out of your Chinese herbal tea. Explore our Brewing Guide Collection for herb-specific recipes and tips.
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