While some of these do contain actual tea - that is, the leaves of Camellia sinensis - many are more properly called tisanes, commonly known as herbal teas. All blends are of my own devising.
Brewing Suggestions:
For leaf and flower teas: Put one generous spoonful of tea blend in a jar and add 12 oz. or so of boiling water (do not boil the tea itself). Cover and let steep for 10-20 minutes. Strain and enjoy. A coffee press is another good option.
For root, bark, and seed teas: Put one generous spoonful of tea blend and a mug’s worth of cold water in a pot. Bring just to a boil, then cover and simmer for 5-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let steep 5-15 minutes more. Strain and enjoy.
Tea balls are convenient, but don't offer quite the infusing power of letting the herbs float freely in the water. If you do use them, be sure not to overfill them, or the tea will become compacted and you won't get a good steep.
For leaf and flower teas: Put one generous spoonful of tea blend in a jar and add 12 oz. or so of boiling water (do not boil the tea itself). Cover and let steep for 10-20 minutes. Strain and enjoy. A coffee press is another good option.
For root, bark, and seed teas: Put one generous spoonful of tea blend and a mug’s worth of cold water in a pot. Bring just to a boil, then cover and simmer for 5-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let steep 5-15 minutes more. Strain and enjoy.
Tea balls are convenient, but don't offer quite the infusing power of letting the herbs float freely in the water. If you do use them, be sure not to overfill them, or the tea will become compacted and you won't get a good steep.