Functional Tea 101 - A Beginner's Guide. What Exactly Is a "Functional Tea"?

The term "functional herbal tea" is popping up all over the socials lately. We’re keen to explain what makes these teas so special. We created a Functional Tea Beginner's Guide to help you discover the tea that's right for you.

To Brew or to Stew, that is the question!

Tea with a purpose

A Functional tea is designed to do more than just quench your thirst. Functional herbal teas are formulated for specific health benefits beyond flavour. Driven by health-conscious consumers seeking natural wellness solutions. These teas can include teas blended with adaptogens, probiotics, and nootropics that promote relaxation, gut health, and mental clarity. Every tea we make at Wild Cornish Tea Co. is a functional tea. Our wellbeing blends are developed to be a delicious part of your day while addressing a broad spectrum of health needs, from detoxing and soothing to balancing and energising.

Often called "functional tea infusions" they make up a category of drinks made by steeping herbs in water. Designed to deliver beneficial compounds for targeted health purposes. Such as boosting the immune system, aiding digestion, or reducing stress. Acting as functional foods, providing an easily absorbed source of vitamins, minerals, and potent plant compounds like polyphenols. Common ingredients include Nettle and Turmeric for inflammation, peppermint for digestion, Ginkgo and lemon balm for stress management.

Hand harvested Ginkgo leaf to be developed into a Functional Tea for the mind

How Functional Herbal Teas Work

The efficacy of a functional herbal tea comes down to its preparation and unique chemical composition:

• Nutrient Extraction: Steeping dried herbs in hot water effectively helps break down the plant's cell walls. This process releases a wide range of nutrients, making them much easier for the body to absorb.

• Holistic Support: These infusions offer support that extends beyond physical ailments, contributing to overall emotional and mental well-being.

• Targeted Benefits: Specific herbal blends are intentionally crafted to provide a targeted effect. For instance, a blend of peppermint and ginger can help soothe bloating, while Ginkgo and lemon balm are often combined for stress management.

Common Functional Herbal Infusions

Different herbs are used to achieve specific health goals:

Health Goal	Common Herbal Ingredients	Example of Functional Benefit
Digestion	Peppermint, Ginger, Raspberry Leaf	Relieves indigestion and bloating, aids PMS
Relaxation & Stress Relief	Chamomile, Hibiscus, Lemon Balm	Promotes calm and helps reduce stress. Can aid ADHD
Immunity & Circulation	Nettle, Turmeric, Ginger	Supports immune function and blood flow
Mental Clarity	Ginkgo, Licorice, Saffron	May help with focus and cognitive function
Anti-Inflammatory Support	Nettle, Turmeric	Used to manage inflammation and Arthritis

Infusion vs. Decoction: Different Preparation Methods

While the term "herbal tea" is often used broadly, there are two distinct methods for preparation: the 'infusion' and the 'decoction'. The choice of method depends entirely on the part of the plant being used.

Infusions

Infusions are the standard method for preparing teas from softer plant parts like leaves and flowers. It involves simply steeping the herbs in hot water. See our guide on the best way to brew loose leaf tea

Decoctions

A decoction is a much stronger, more concentrated brew necessary for extracting beneficial compounds from hard plant parts like roots, bark, and seeds.

Both methods activate the 'function' of the plant.

The Decoction Process: To prepare a decoction, the tough materials are first boiled for at least 10–15 minutes. The mixture is then allowed to steep for a few hours. The resulting liquid is often boiled down to be concentrated, which means you'll typically need to add water to dilute it before drinking.

Examples of Decoctions: Well-known examples include ginger root, licorice root, dandelion root, and fenugreek seed.

Tips for Preparation and Consumption

To get the most out of your functional herbal tea, follow these preparation guidelines:

1. Steep Properly: Always allow the herbs sufficient time to steep. This is what releases their beneficial oils, flavours, aromas, and phytonutrients into the water, maximizing both medicinal properties and taste.

2. Storage: Keep your dried herbs in a covered caddy to preserve their delicate beneficial compounds and volatile oils. Herbs that have been dried slowly and are consumed relatively quickly after picking tend to contain more beneficial compounds.

3. Consider the Method: While hot water is standard, some herbs can be prepared as a cold infusion by steeping them in cold water for a longer period, such as overnight.

4. Consistency is Key: To truly experience the full benefits of functional herbal teas, it is often best to consume them consistently over time.

   
   

Functional Tea Infusion of berries for Immunity