In the United States, we tend to use the word "tea" as a catch-all term for anything we steep in hot water. Whether it is a robust English Breakfast or a soothing Peppermint, we call it tea.
However, if you speak to a botanist (or a tea sommelier), they will tell you there is a significant difference. While it might seem like a technicality, knowing the difference between "True Tea" and "Herbal Tea" is actually the secret to brewing a better cup, because they require different water temperatures and steeping times.
At Yerba Buena Tea Co., we celebrate both. Here is the supportive guide to understanding what is in your mug.
The "True" Tea
As we discussed in our guide to the 5 Types of Tea, "true tea" must come from one specific plant species: Camellia sinensis.
This evergreen shrub is responsible for all Black, Green, White, Oolong, and Pu-erh teas. If the leaves in your cup came from this plant, it is tea. These teas naturally contain caffeine and antioxidants called flavonoids.
The "Herbal" Infusion (Tisane)
If you brew anything else, roots, flowers, barks, seeds, or spices, it is technically a Tisane (pronounced ti-zahn). In the industry, we also call these "Herbal Teas" or "Botanical Infusions."
The world of tisanes is vast and colorful. Because they don't contain the tea plant, they are almost always naturally caffeine-free. We source organic botanicals from all over the world to create our herbal blends:
- Flowers: Chamomile, Hibiscus, Rose, Lavender. (Found in Four Flowers).
- Leaves: Peppermint, Spearmint, Raspberry Leaf, Lemon Balm. (Found in Refresh).
- Roots: Ginger, Turmeric, Licorice, Valerian. (Found in Turmeric Lemon Ginger).
- Seeds/Spices: Fennel, Cardamom, Fenugreek. (Found in Tummy Bliss).
Why The Distinction Matters
We aren't trying to be pedantic! Knowing if you are drinking a Tea or a Tisane changes how you should brew it.
True Tea (especially Green and White) is delicate. It has tannins that can turn bitter if the water is too hot or if you steep it too long.
Herbal Tisanes are tough. Roots and dried fruits need heat to release their flavor and essential oils. You generally want to use boiling water and a long steep time for herbals to get the full wellness benefits.
Cheat Sheet: Tea vs. Tisane
| Category | True Tea | Herbal Tisane |
|---|---|---|
| Plant Origin | Camellia sinensis | Various (Mint, Chamomile, Rooibos) |
| Caffeine? | Yes (Always) | No (With rare exceptions like Mate) |
| Water Temp | 175°F - 200°F | 212°F (Rolling Boil) |
| Steep Time | 2-5 Minutes | 5-10+ Minutes |
Sommelier’s Note: The Exception
There is one famous "herbal" tea that contains caffeine: Yerba Mate. It comes from a holly tree in South America, not the tea plant, so it is technically a tisane, but it packs a caffeinated punch rivaling coffee! Check out our Yerba Mate Collection for a clean energy boost.
The Best of Both Worlds
At our Oregon blending facility, we love breaking the rules. Some of our favorite blends combine the two worlds.
For example, our Rose & Green blends true Green Tea with organic Rose petals (a tisane ingredient). This gives you the gentle energy of tea with the aromatic beauty of a flower. Whether you choose the leaf or the flower, choosing organic ensures your cup is pure, delicious, and restorative.
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