What is the difference between herbal tea and tea?

While herbal tea and tea share a common ritual, that of infusion, they are nevertheless very different, both in their effects and their composition. One is the fruit of a blend of plants and soothes, while the other comes from the tea plant and stimulates.

Maison Betjeman & Barton enlightens you on the fundamental differences between herbal tea and tea, to help you adapt your hot drinks to your desires and current needs.

Origin and composition: it all starts at the source

On one hand, tea is made from the leaves of the tea plant, also called "Camellia sinensis". Whether black, white, green or oolong, it contains theine, a molecule similar to caffeine, which gives it natural stimulating properties.

On the other hand, herbal tea does not contain tea leaves. It takes the form of a blend of plants, flowers, fruits or spices. Chamomile, mint, verbena, liquorice: each composition promotes well-being. Because it is naturally decaffeinated, herbal tea is particularly popular for its gentle and soothing effects.

Let's remember that rooibos, which is often confused with tea, does not come from Camellia sinensis. It comes from a South African shrub and contains no theine, which is why it is considered an herbal tea in the world of infusions.

Preparing your infusion, a delicate art

Each type of leaf or plant has its preferences when it comes to brewing.

Tea thus requires mastery and precision. Water that is too hot can burn the leaves, while an unsuitable brewing time can alter the taste of the drink. For example, black tea should be infused at 85-95°C for 3 to 5 minutes, and green tea should be infused at 70-80°C for 2 to 3 minutes.

More flexible, the preparation of an herbal tea can be done in three ways: classic infusion, decoction, and maceration. Brands and manufacturers also indicate a brewing time and duration for each herbal tea, to help you prepare beneficial and tasty cups.

The benefits of herbal tea and tea

Thanks to its natural theine content, tea acts as a gentle stimulant on the body. Daily, it helps, for example, to improve concentration and maintain vigilance.

Tea is also full of antioxidants, which are beneficial for fighting oxidative stress and premature aging. In short, it is a valuable ally for starting the day well or staying productive throughout the afternoon.

Herbal tea, on the other hand, is distinguished by the diversity of its properties. Some ingredients soothe, such as lime blossom and chamomile, while others aid digestion, such as mint and fennel, or improve sleep, such as lavender and verbena. Theine-free, herbal tea is suitable for all consumers and for many times of the day.

At what time of day to enjoy a cup of herbal tea or tea?

Tea is best enjoyed upon waking or after lunch. It provides all the energy needed to face the day, while offering you a refined tasting moment with each cup.

Herbal tea is best enjoyed in the evening or during periods of stress. Its consumption fits perfectly into a relaxing routine and helps to gently harmonize body and mind, without risking disturbing sleep.

Most herbal teas and teas can also be enjoyed hot or cold, depending on the weather and your mood at the moment.

Here is a clear and simple comparative table to know all the differences between herbal tea and tea:

To conclude, both can be perfectly enjoyed all year round.

Betjeman & Barton teas and herbal teas, between tradition and innovation

Within our French House with British inspiration, we celebrate both the elegance of grand cru teas and the sensory richness of herbal teas to satisfy all preferences and desires.

We select the noblest leaves from the most beautiful gardens across China, India or Japan, as well as the purest plants to compose teas and infusions with subtle aromas.

Explore our exclusive collection of herbal teas and our range of teas to find your ideal infusion and make every cup a unique taste journey.