Many of the herbs and flowers used in beverages are known for their stimulating or relaxing effect, similar to tea or coffee. The phrase “herbal teas” has become a generic term for herbs and edible flowers, that are steeped in hot water – whether or not actual tea leaves are used. If tea leaves are not used, these beverages are known as herbal infusions or “tisanes,” served either warm or cold as medicinal home remedies or simply as pleasant and relaxing drinks. Tisane was originally a French word for an herbal infusion that had beneficial or healthful properties.
