Tisane Listing, Part 2

Tisane Basics covered the difference between a tisane and a tea, why people drink tisanes, how to make them, and what categories of tisanes there are. The Tisane Listing series is also about tisanes, but it is about individual herbs rather than herbal "teas" as a whole. Last week’s article, Tisane Listing 1 covered Allspice through Eucalyptus. Below is a definition of each of the major tisanes from Fennel to Parsley, including the herb’s history, origin, flavor, plant part, healing properties, and/or primary health caveats. Next week, I will cover even more herbal tisanes. If you feel I missed one worth noting, contact me!

WARNING/DISCLAIMER--The tisane world is tricky. Some tisanes are predominantly drunk for the taste, while others are consumed for their potential medicinal benefits. This article covers both. Please do not use these tisanes for medicinal purposes without consulting an herbalist. Do not make them in aluminum pots, as aluminum is a reactive metal and it may react with some tisanes to produce a harmful compound. Do not take more than the supplier/herbalist-recommended dosages of any tisanes listed here, as some of them can be very dangerous when taken in excess. Thanks!

Fennel
Fennel seed produces a tisane that is used for appetite stimulation, upper-respiratory infections, sore throats, gas, and (when steeped in milk) abdominal pain. It is most effective when ground immediately before it is steeped. (Do not use if you are allergic to celery. Do not give large doses to children.)

Feverfew
"The aspirin of the 18th century," feverfew is named for its supposed ability to "drive out fevers." It is primarily used to treat migraines, though it is also said to be effective for other types of headaches, joint inflammation, menstrual cramps, and other types of pain. (Please consult with an herbalist before use, as feverfew has some potentially dangerous side-effects.)

Gardenia
The gardenia has been used in many ways for many ailments. In China, the Gardenia jasminoides fruit (known as "zhi zi") is most commonly used for calming nerves, cooling blood, reducing inflammation, decreasing fever, and "draining fire." The bitter flowers can be used as a calming "tea" and are often blended with or used to scent black, green, and Oolong teas in China. Other varieties may be used for a multitude of purposes, from treating snake bites to smallpox to nosebleeds. (Consult an herbalist for more information.)

Gentian
There are many varieties of gentian, some of which are medicinal and some of which are not. Gentian lutea/Great Yellow Gentian is possibly the most useful, but decidedly the most bitter. It’s used as an antidote, digestive aid, fortifier, and exhaustion fighter, but it’s so bitter that it is used as a scientific basis for measuring bitterness, and IS the primary flavor in Angostura bittern bitters. There is some evidence that it is effective in fighting inflammation and aiding in digestion. Other (less bitter) varieties include Gentian macrophylla/Large Leaf Gentian (which is used for rheumatism) and Spring Gentian (which is rumored to increase your chances of being struck by lighting if you bring it into your house).

Ginger
Ginger root makes a delicious tisane that is useful for colds, flu, sore throats, and nausea. The "kick" in its flavor can increase heart rate and circulation, and aid in draining the sinuses. It’s most effective in fighting fever-related illnesses if drunk without sweeteners, but lemon juice makes a nice addition in terms of taste and nutrition.

Ginkgo Leaf
Ginkgo is best known for its memory-related functions, which have to do with an increased peripheral circulation in the brain. (These effects are best achieved in conjunction with the intake of ginseng.) It is also used as a strong antioxidant, a treatment for tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and a treatment for a range of other circulatory and nerve conditions.

Ginseng Root
Ah, the famed ginseng root. High-quality ginseng can fetch enormous prices in Korea and China. It is known to have adaptogens (which aid the body in dealing with emotional and physical stress), to regulate the immune system, and to prevent some types of disease. In Asia, it is also used as a treatment for heart conditions, fever, and other conditions. There is some evidence that it may benefit type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and asthma, but more research is necessary in these areas. Ginseng is marketed in men’s sports drinks and other energy-related products as a means of activating male hormones, but this is not supported by clinical evidence. Chrysanthemum blossoms or rock sugar may be mixed with the root to mask its bitter taste.

Goji Berry
At the time of writing (2007), goji berries are one of the hot "new" herbs on the market. They have been used for thousands of years in China, Tibet, and India to improve circulation, improve eyesight, increase sexual function, protect the liver, and promote longevity. Many marketers claim it is effective in fighting cancer. Little research has been done on these claims and uses, but it has been shown to be high in antioxidants. The juice is marketed heavily in the U.S. health food "scene," but it is incredibly expensive and makes numerous unsubstantianted health claims. The dried berries are commonly brewed into a tisane in Eastern medicine. Before shelling out loads of cash on the juice, I’d suggest trying the infusion. If nothing else, it tastes good.

Greek Mountain Tea
Also known as "Tea of the Mountain" (pronounced TSAH-ee too voo-NOO), Shepherd’s Tea, and a handful of other names, Greek mountain tea is a very popular cold remedy and cure-all in the Mediterranean. It is cultivated in parts of Greece and proliferates in the wild. Outside of Greece and in tourist areas, it can be expensive, but it is very well-priced in Greek grocery stores, markets, pharmacies, and herb shops.

Hibiscus (Bissap/Roselle)
Hibiscus "tea" is drunk in Africa (particularly in the Sahel region, where it is sold on the street and served very sugary), the Caribbean (where it is called sorrel, made from the fruit rather than the flowers of the plant, and is part of the Christmas tradition), Thailand (where it is believed to reduce cholesterol and is sometimes made into a wine along with Chinese tealeaves), Okinawa (where it is thought to promote longevity), and some Arabic regions (where it is called Karkade, pronounced "KAR-kah-day," served hot or iced, and often blended with rosehips). In the U.S. and England, it is often used as a filler in cheaper fruit and flower tisanes.

Honeybush
A relative of rooibos, honeybush is a sweet, smooth tisane that is grown in Africa. Its popularity has risen sharply with rooibos’; sometimes it is even sold as a type of rooibos. During trade restrictions due to major wars, it was often drunk as a substitute for true tea, but now it is standing on its own outside of Africa. Though the entire bush is harvested (don’t worry--it grows back!), only the leaves are used. The leaves are high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and are traditionally used to aid in digestion, ease coughs, regulate blood sugar, reduce menopausal symptoms, prevent cancer and osteoporosis, and stimulate milk production in lactating mothers.

Horehound
Horehound is traditionally used to treat coughs and colds. Though it has many advocates in its efficacy against sore throats and laryngitis, the FDA is not one of them. (Do not us ADD e if you have low blood pressure, have a heart condition, or use insulin or insulin-like drugs. Also, the horehound used for infusions (Marrabium vulgare) should not be confused with black horehound (Ballota nigra) or water horehound/bugleweed (Lycopus virginicus), as they are not related and may be dangerous to consume.)

Jiaogulan
Jiaogulan (a.k.a. "Poor Man’s Ginseng") is an herb from Thailand that is claimed to have powerful adaptogenic and antioxidant qualities. While this is possible, there is little third-party documentation of jiaogulan. Many sites that sell it falsely claim that the FDA backs up their health claims. I do not recommend this herb for any purpose without consultation with an herbalist.

Juniper Berry
Best known as an ingredient in gin, juniper berries also make a nice, tangy-sweet tisane whether shaken or stirred (or just infused). They are a natural diuretic and its traditional uses range from aiding in childbirth and stimulating menstruation, to treating congestive heart failure, to soothing arthritis, to treating bladder infections. Today, most herbalists use it in a blend to treat bladder infections and coughs. (Some warn that it may cause kidney problems if used in excess. Do not use while pregnant.)

Kava (Kava Kava, Awa)
Kava (also known as "kava kava" or "awa") is a ceremonial South Pacific infusion that has gained popularity in recent years as an herbal supplement and as a "legal drug." It relaxes the muscles, eases anxiety, and has sedating effects similar to those of alcohol. Some say it induces a feeling of mellowness and euphoria. Infusions made from the fresh root of the kava peppercorn plant are much stronger than those made from teabags, and care should be exercised in drinking them. (Do not drink kava and drive. The FDA warns that liver failure may be linked with very concentrated doses of kava.)

Kombucha
Kombucha is another current "miracle drink" on the market. "Kombu" is a type of seaweed, "cha" is Japanese for tea, and most people will tell you kombucha is a "mushroom tea." In fact, seaweed, tea, and mushrooms are entirely unrelated to kombucha production. Kombucha is a Western misnomer for a drink made of a tisane that has been sweetened, and then fermented by bacterial slime, known as a zoogleal mat. The zoogleal mat creates a solid mass known as the "mushroom." Many health claims have been made about kombucha. In China it is called the "Immortal Health Elixir." Some say it aids in liver detoxification, cancer prevention, and weight loss, but no clinical evidence supports these claims to date. Many kombucha drinkers report a feeling of euphoria and well being after consumption. (The zoogleal mat can get contaminated by unwanted microorganisms and be dangerous to your health. Also, the acidity of kombucha can cause it to react with aluminum, lead, and ceramic vessels. Use caution if making kombucha at home and only prepare it in non-reactive containers.)

Labrador
"Labrador tea" refers to a tisane made from one of two plants, Ledum palustre/Rhododendron tomentosum (Northern Labrador tea) or Ledum groenlandicum (Bog Labrador tea). In Labrador (a region of Atlamtic Canada), the tea is called "Indian tea," because the Athabaskans and Eskimo peoples of Alaska and Canada consume it. It is traditionally used for colds, dizziness, hangovers, stomach problems, and other assorted ailments. (Labrador contains a poison that, when consumed in excess, may cause aggressive behavior, dizziness, nausea, spasms, and unconciousness. If you show any of these symptoms, seek medical assistance immediately. Also, the smell of Labrador "tea" may induce headaches for some people.)

Lapacho (Pau-d’arco, Taheebo, Queshua, Tree of Life)
Lapacho is a decoction made from the inner bark of the Tabebuia tree and traditionally used in Brazil for various ailments including fever, pain, arthritis, bacterial infections, inflammation, and cancer. It is marketed as a cancer cure. Though testing is limited, initial results have shown that the doses necessary to substantially reduce tumor size are toxic, and the American Cancer Society does not recommend it until more research is available. However, taking lapacho in recommended doses is safe, and it has been shown to be a sedative, analgesic, antibiotic, and diuretic.

Lavender
Lavender flowers make a sweet, soothing, and highly aromatic tisane. Many say that it is calming and that it aids in the relief of headaches, tension, insomnia, and stress. Personally, I find it to be delicious.

Lemon Balm (Melissa)
This southern European plant’s leaves, stems, and flowers are used for stomach problems (similar to mint), anxiety/stress, and assorted other health problems. It has a very pleasant lemony aroma and a sour-spicy taste. Clinical trials support its use as a mild sedative.

Lemon Peel (Lemon Zest, Lemon Rind)
Lemon peel can be added to tea or brewed as a pungent and refreshingly astringent tisane with a revitalizing aroma. In Korea, this tisane is prepared with a sweetener and pine nuts. (I love this drink!!!) Some use lemon peel for digestive problems and coughs, and it has been shown to reduce severe sunburns and squamous cell carcinomas (a type of skin cancer).

Lemongrass
This invigorating citrusy leaf from Thailand makes a tisane that is delicious hot or cold. It is used for anxiety, colds, and digestive problems, and it is a good source of vitamin A.

Licorice Root
Licorice "tea" is something that you either love or hate. If you love it, you’ll be glad to know that it has been shown to help heal stomach ulcers and boost T-cell counts, and it may act as an antidepressant. (Do not use if you have chronic hepatitis, a liver condition, diabetes, or high blood pressure, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.)

Lotus Flower
Lotus flowers may be used to wrap teas or brewed into a tisane. The stamens can also be plucked and infused. White lotus has a pleasant floral taste, but blue lotus may be somewhat bitter. Some claim the tisanes produce a feeling of euphoria and sedation.

Mate de Coca
Mate de coca (sometimes called "mate" in Peru) is considered sacred in Andean culture and has been consumed as part of many major rituals, from celebrating a birth to arranging a marriage to mourning a death, for four thousand years. It is also used to increase work productivity and ease altitude sickness. In countries where cocaine is illegal, "decocainated tea" is sometimes available, thought it contains about 5 mg of cocaine per bag (about 1% of one gram of cocaine in powder form). In the U.S. in the 1980s, it was effectively used to wean cocaine addicts off cocaine.

Motherwort
Motherwort has many traditional uses associated with the ancient Chinese (longevity), early Greeks (longevity, anxiety, pregnancy/childbirth/other various "women’s issues," heart problems), American colonists (emmenagogue, aid in expelling afterbirth), and Cherokee (sedative). The jury is out on the efficacy of motherwort for most of these uses. However, if you know someone who enjoys Victorian floral arrangements, motherwort will be an effective way to tell them you are secretly in love with them.

Neem Leaf
The neem tree is a major part of Ayurvedic medicine in India. Its leaves can be made into a tisane that is used for treating infections, viruses, parasites, ulcers, diabetes, heart conditions, inflammation/arthritis, cancer, digestive problems, and more. Dosages and preparations for various ailments range widely, so see an herbalist for more information.

Nettle Leaf
Nettle leaves are named for their needle-like shape. They are traditionally used for many problems, and clinical trials have confirmed their use against high blood pressure/heart rate, hormone-associated issues such as hair loss and prostate enlargement/hyperplasia, water retention, and inflammation in the forms of rhumatism and arthritis.

Orange Peel
Orange peel tisane tastes delicious and is said to act as a digestive aid. Also, many people find that the scent of orange rind is invigorating, particularly during mid-afternoon doldrums. During warm weather it is refreshing when made with other citrus fruits or a dab of honey and chilled. During cold weather it is warming when served hot with cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and/or a dab or honey.

Parsley
Parsley tisane is usually made from dried leaves, though I recommend fresh leaves if you have access to them. Parsley is high in vitamins C and A, and minerals iron, calcium, thiamin, riboflavin, potassium, zinc, and niacin. Many drink it hot for flu, coughs, and colds. It is said to aid in digestion, circulation, water-retention, asthma, menstruation, and bad breath, among other things.

Alas, this is the end of the VeeTea Fennel to Parsley Tisane Listing. Continue reading about tisanes from Peach to Yerba Mate.