A who’s who and what’s what of organic herbal teas.

(scroll down for an overview of their common uses)

Herbal teas are simply infusions made from the various parts- leaves, seeds, grass, nuts, bark, fruit and flowers- of particular plants. Herbal teas are naturally caffeine free and have a cleansing effect on the body. They have long been used to promote health and well-being.

Highland Herbs’ Stress Ease blend: oats, lemon balm, rosemary, lavender, passionflower, skullcap and chamomile

At Wholefoods House we carry a variety of herbal teas in loose leaf and tea bag form; as single herbs and special blends. Two of our favourite producers are Highland Herbs Tasmania and Southern Light Herbs: both companies make beautiful loose leaf herbal teas and blends which are lovingly, knowledgeably and ethically produced.

Highland Herbs’ YEP blend: yarrow leaf, elderflower and peppermint

To prepare the perfect herbal tea use 1 teaspoon per cup of hot water and allow to steep for between 5 and 10 minutes before straining. To serve you can add a little honey or lemon (taste first: most herbs are sweet and very pleasant tasting already) and in summer try chilling the infusion for a lovely alternative to iced tea.

Uses of common herbs

Alfalfa Mild diuretic; stabilises blood sugar and cholesterol levels; stimulates immune system.

Burdock Generally cleansing; aids digestion; protects the liver; anti-bacterial and anti-fungal effects.

Calendula Promotes healthy skin and relieves infection and inflammation; relieves menstrual cramping.

Chamomile Renowned for its calming, soothing properties- promotes relaxation and sleep; anti-inflammatory; aids digestion.

Dandelion Mild diuretic; the root has a particularly cleansing effect on the liver and gall bladder.

Echinacea Renowned for its stimulating effect on the immune system; used to prevent and treat upper respiratory conditions such as cold and flu .

Elderflower Anti-inflammatory; stimulates the immune system and is useful for preventing and treating colds, flus, infections, fever and congestion.

Fenugreek Good for the nervous, digestive and reproductive systems.

Ginger Aids circulation and digestion; treats chest congestion and arthritis; quells nausea.

Lemongrass Soothing; encourages relaxation and sleep; relieves fever, headache and flu symptoms.

Lemon balm Soothing; used as a remedy for fatigue, insomnia and headaches.

Lemon myrtle Relieves colds, bronchitis and flu symptoms; anti-fungal.

Licorice Mild diuretic; aids digestion and cleanses the liver. Used as an adrenal tonic.

Marshmallow Treats inflammations of the digestive tract and aids digestion generally.

Nettle Rich in iron; strengthening. Mild diuretic with a detoxifying effect; anti-inflammatory- used to treat arthritis and allergies.

Peppermint Soothing; aids digestion, freshens breath and quells nausea.

Raspberry leaf Good for the reproductive system, especially strengthening the uterus.

Red clover Beneficial for women’s health: used to enhance fertility and at menopause.

Rosehip Rich in vitamin C and bioflavanoids; particularly good for the liver and kidneys; remedy for colds and associated fatigue.

Senna Diuretic with a detoxify ing effect.

Spearmint Calming for the digestive system.

Valerian Soothing and relaxing, particularly for the muscles; used as a remedy for insomnia.

Yarrow Stimulates appetite and aids digestion; treats fever and helps heal wounds.

• Please note that this page is a guide: we do not stock all teas at all times.