A tisane can be a soothing relaxing beverage for a calming break, but it can be so much more due to its benefits.
What is a tisane?
Commercially, a tisane is a combination of plants, of which both the tender parts, such as leaves and petals, and the woody parts, such as roots, stems and seeds, can be used, consumed by infusion of the mixture.
This meaning is the most used, and is based on the content and composition of the ingredients. It is the commercial meaning, linked to the food sector. However, it is necessary to make a clarification: there is a meaning of tisane specific to herbal science.
In herbal medicine, a tisane is a beneficial mixture made up of a maximum of six medicinal plants, of which a main plant, called “remedium cardinale”, provides the beneficial active ingredient, while the others are combined to facilitate the absorption of the main component, increasing its ‘positive effect.
Types of tisane
Macerated tisane: how is it prepared?
The macerate is carried out by letting the drug rest in water at room temperature, for periods that can vary from a day to several weeks. The residues (dregs) must be retained by filtration and possible squeezing.
Little used for the preparation of tisanes, the macerate is useful when the drug contains high percentages of thermolabile substances – which would be dispersed with high temperatures – or unwanted ones, which would be extracted in excess with heat.
Infused tisane: how is it prepared?
The infusion is prepared by pouring boiling water over the drug and then leaving it to soak for 5 (mainly aromatic tisanes) to 20 minutes (mainly therapeutic tisanes) in a closed container with a lid.
Compared to the decoction, the infusion is more suitable for extracting volatile components (irremediably lost with boiling) from tender and delicate tissues (flowers, leaves and aromatic herbs).
Best herbs for tisanes and their benefits
Anise
Is an annual plant about 60 cm tall, with small white-yellow flowers followed by small oval green seeds. It has a sweet taste, and the aroma is reminiscent of fennel seeds with a slight mint aftertaste.
It is considered a useful anti-bloating, counteracts nervous hunger and promotes the digestion of foods rich in fats.
Star Anise
Is an evergreen tropical tree, between five and ten meters tall, native to eastern Asia. It owes its name to the star shape that characterizes the eyelets of its 8 small fruits.
A curiosity: under the generic name of anise are grouped plants that actually have no botanical relatives. The plants are united by the aroma of their seeds or fruits, which is practically identical.
It has a digestive and diuretic action, counteracts spasms and the formation of intestinal gas. It also performs antiseptic activity.
Orange (zest)
It is an important source of pectin, a non-soluble fiber that combats constipation and promotes intestinal regularity. It also plays an active role in reducing acidity and heartburn.
Calendula
There are twelve species of this flower, of which the best known is Calendula officinalis. The name derives from the Latin Calendae, a word with which the Romans indicated the first day of the month, given that it flowers once a month throughout the summer.
The petals of its flowers vary from bright yellow to orange-red. Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, useful against menstrual pain and colitis.
Chamomile
We have all known chamomile since childhood! One thing that perhaps not everyone knows is that its name derives from Greek, and literally means apple of the soil, because its smell is reminiscent of that of the rennet apple.
Known for its sedative and calming benefits. In reality, the plant has no active ingredients against insomnia, but on the contrary, it mainly has antispasmodic properties, i.e. it produces muscle relaxation.
It is an excellent muscle relaxant, useful in case of intestinal cramps, poor digestion, irritable bowel syndrome, muscle spasms and menstrual pain, but also in case of nervous tension and stress, because it causes a sensation of pleasant relaxation with a calming effect on nervousness. and anxiety.
The tisanes obtained with this plant help eliminate intestinal gas and promote digestion, producing a general improvement in the functionality of the gastrointestinal system.
Cinnamon
It is an evergreen tree native to Sri Lanka. Unlike other cooking drugs, the spice is not obtained from the seed or fruit, but from the stem and twigs which take on the classic appearance of a small hazelnut-colored parchment.
It is a good natural remedy useful against colds, nervous hunger and menstrual pain. It is a powerful natural antioxidant, stimulates blood circulation and helps fight cholesterol. It has antibacterial, antiseptic, stimulating and digestive properties.
Eucalyptus
Is an evergreen arboreal plant native to Oceania and the Philippines. The name comes from Greek, and means “to hide well”, in reference to the fact that the petals hide the rest of the flower.
Its active ingredients give the plant a balsamic, fluidifying and expectorant action on the catarrhal secretions of the respiratory tract.
Fennel
It is a Mediterranean herbaceous plant known since ancient times for its aromatic properties and only subsequently used in agriculture for food purposes.
It has aromatic, digestive, and diuretic properties. Its seeds promote digestion and relieve abdominal discomfort.
They are indicated, in the form of tisane, to help fight swelling, aerophagia, and cramps. They help eliminate toxins, especially thanks to the fibers that help intestinal mobility and their diuretic properties. They are powerful anti-inflammatories and keep blood pressure low.
Lavender
Once again, no explanation for this Mediterranean plant. Just a curiosity about its name, which was transposed into the Italian language from the Latin gerund “lavare” (which must be washed) to allude to the fact that these species were widely used in ancient times to cleanse the body.
It is useful for headaches, insomnia and coughs. It has a sedative and calming action on the nervous system, to be used in cases of anxiety, agitation, nervousness, headaches, stress and insomnia.
Lemon (zest)
Is one of the most popular fruits, but its origins are shrouded in mystery. Some genetic studies support the hypothesis that it is a hybrid that derives from the cross between the bitter orange and the cedar.
Lemon is a powerful purifier of the body, promotes digestion and fights abdominal swelling. Strengthens the immune system and helps prevent infections, flu, colds and respiratory problems. It promotes blood alkalinity and helps reduce high blood pressure levels.
Licorice
Is a perennial herbaceous plant that develops a large rhizome from which stolons and roots extend, up to two meters long. The underground stems of three-four year old plants, harvested during the autumn season and dried, are used for liquorice.
It is digestive, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, expectorant and protective of the gastric mucosa. Indicated against cough, sore throat, catarrh, cervical and gastric acidity, it also has a mild laxative function.
Thirst-quenching and refreshing, it is very useful for those suffering from low blood pressure, as it increases blood pressure, but for the same reason it should be consumed sparingly.
Melissa
Her name derives from Greek and means “bee”, according to mythology it refers to a nymph who invented the art of beekeeping. Its aroma is extremely pleasant, and the flavor is reminiscent of lemon.
Antioxidant and antispasmodic, useful against stress and insomnia.
Mint
Exploring the over 600 species of this plant is impossible. It can be found everywhere, from freezing Alaska to the heat of Kenya. Mint is refreshing and aids in digestion.
The menthol contained in mint is a valid ally against digestion problems, and also has analgesic and antiemetic properties; mint can therefore be used to combat nausea and vomiting.
Blueberry (leaves)
This fruit is also popular, and present in our diets both fresh and dehydrated. Its leaves contain flavonoid glycosides and glucoquine, a substance that lowers the glucose (sugar) content in the blood.
Blackberry (leaves)
Many of us will have childhood memories linked to this delicious fruit. According to a legend, Satan, chased from the heavens, fell into a thicket of brambles on October 11, and every year on this day he comes out of hell and returns to earth to hurl his curse against this prickly bush.
From this moment the blackberries are not good, they lose their flavor, and become covered in cobwebs and mold.
Blackberry leaves have antioxidant properties that fight aging and free radicals, as well as skin blemishes. It purifies the stomach and helps digestion, fights hypertension by helping to rebalance blood flow
Rooibos
Also known as redbush or African red tea, is an infusion obtained from the leaves of the plant of the same name, belonging to the legume family. The term rooibos means “red shrub” and derives from Afrikans, one of the official languages of South Africa.
It has antioxidant properties and anti-inflammatory and antiviral qualities. Useful for counteracting free radicals and strengthening the immune system.
Rich in quercetin, it is a valid ally for circulation. The anti-oxidant properties of rooibos make it perfect for the health and beauty of the skin. It can help reduce the signs of wrinkles and other symptoms of premature aging, revitalizing the skin and leaving it fresh and invigorated.
It also lowers blood pressure, helps relieve nervous tension and hypertensive conditions. Useful for the health of bones and teeth, as it is rich in minerals such as calcium and manganese.
Rosemary
An inevitable ally of Mediterranean cuisine. Its name derives from the Latin ros marinus “sea dew”, as it naturally grows near the sea. Used as an infusion or decoction it is used as a liver purifier and as a tonic and digestive.
Elderberry (flowers)
Is a genus of plants that includes many shrub species, widely used in many preparations. The syrup obtained from its flowers is very popular.
Furthermore, originally, the extract of its flowers was the basis of sambuca, although today it is almost always made using anise.
In the form of an infusion, they are known for their ability to increase body sweating, thus promoting the elimination of toxins and the drop in body temperature during feverish states.
The petals in infusion are used for the preparation of tisanes against asthma, coughs, flu, catarrh, sinusitis and colds. They are also believed to have antirheumatic properties.
Linden (flowers)
These flowers are cream colored and have a honey flavour, much loved by bees. They are often used in tisanes for their scent and flavor which is reminiscent of honey.
Used in phytotherapy to combat insomnia, tachycardia, nervousness and headaches, because they have a relaxing action on the circulatory system, causing a lowering of blood pressure.
Vervain
The name of this plant derives from the Latin verbena, which originally indicated leaves or twigs of various plants (in addition to verbena also olive, laurel and myrtle) which were used for religious ceremonies by the Romans.
It is an excellent anti-stress agent, furthermore its essential oils extracted through infusions help to disinfect the oral cavity and nasal cavities. Helps joints and fights muscle inflammation.
Ginger
This spice obtained from a root needs no introduction. For years it has entered our homes as a protagonist in the form of dust or more or less large residues, and is now also present fresh in any supermarket. It is a stimulating and tonic spice.
It is used as a natural anti-inflammatory and digestive and is among the most effective anti-nausea and anti-dizziness remedies. Ginger can treat ailments such as car sickness, seasickness and morning sickness.
Thanks to its antibiotic properties it is a valid ally of the stomach, intestines, heart and circulatory system.
Conclusion
Using tisanes can be a lifechanging daily gesture to feel good in both your body and soul.
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