What is Tisane?
The primary difference between tisane and tea lies in their ingredients and origins:
Tea
Definition: True tea refers to beverages made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, including green, black, white, oolong, and pu-erh tea.
Caffeine Content: Teas typically contain varying levels of caffeine.
Flavor Profile: Tea flavors can range from grassy and vegetal (green tea) to malty and robust (black tea), depending on how the leaves are processed.
Health Benefits: Rich in catechins, theanine, and antioxidants, tea is known for promoting heart health, mental alertness, and metabolism.
Tisane
Definition: Tisanes, or herbal infusions, are made from a variety of plants, including herbs, flowers, fruits, spices, or roots, but do not contain Camellia sinensis. Examples include chamomile, māmaki, and peppermint.
Caffeine Content: Most tisanes are naturally caffeine-free, making them suitable for relaxation or for people avoiding stimulants.
Flavor Profile: The taste of a tisane depends on its ingredients and can range from fruity and floral to earthy and spicy.
Health Benefits: Tisanes often have specific benefits tied to their ingredients, such as calming effects (chamomile), digestive aid (peppermint), or immune support (elderberry).
Key Difference
The distinction lies in the plant base: all teas come from Camellia sinensis, while tisanes are made from other plants and are often caffeine-free. Both are enjoyed for their unique flavors and health benefits.
