Floral Tea: A Journey through Nature's Fragrant and Delicate Infusions
Chrysanthemum Floral Tea
Floral tea is a unique and enjoyable experience for tea lovers who want to explore different flower-based tastes and aromas in their tea. Floral teas can be made by infusing dried or fresh flowers in hot water, and they come in a variety of fragrant and delicate flavors, each with its own set of health benefits.
In this blog article, we'll explore what floral tea is, its benefits, and some of the most popular floral tea blends. We will also describe how to brew the perfect cup of floral tea with Qi Aerista Smart Tea Brewer.
What is Floral Tea
Floral tea, also categorized as herbal tea or tisane, is a type of tea that is made from the flowers, leaves, and sometimes other parts of plants such as fruits, roots, or herbs. In its pure form, it does not contain any actual tea leaves from the Camellia sinensis plant.
Floral tea can be made from a variety of flowers, such as chamomile, hibiscus, rose, lavender, jasmine, and many others. These flowers are often dried and steeped in hot water, which releases their natural flavors and aromas. Some floral teas may also include additional actual teas, herbs or spices to enhance their flavor or provide additional health benefits.
Floral teas are often consumed for their soothing and calming properties and are sometimes used as a natural remedy for various health conditions, such as insomnia, anxiety, or digestive issues. They can be enjoyed hot or cold, and are often served plain or sweetened with honey or other natural sweeteners.
History of Floral Tea
The use of flowers in tea has been around for centuries, and it's believed to have originated in China, where they have long used flowers like chrysanthemum, jasmine, and rose in their tea. The practice of using flowers in tea has spread throughout the world, and today, there are many different types of floral teas available to choose from.
Types of Floral Tea
There are many types of floral tea, each with its own unique flavor and aroma. Some of the most common types of floral tea include:
- Chrysanthemum tea: Made from the flowers of the chrysanthemum plant, this tea has a light and refreshing flavor and is often consumed for its cooling properties and potential health benefits, such as reducing inflammation.
- Chamomile tea: Made from the dried flowers of the chamomile plant, this tea is known for its soothing properties and is often consumed before bedtime.
- Rose tea: Made from the petals of the rose flower, this tea has a delicate floral flavor and aroma and is often consumed for its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Lavender tea: Made from the dried flowers of the lavender plant, this tea is known for its calming and relaxing properties.
- Jasmine tea: Made from the flowers of the jasmine plant, this tea has a sweet and floral aroma and is often consumed for its calming and stress-relieving properties.
- Hibiscus tea: Made from the dried flowers of the hibiscus plant, this tea has a tart and fruity flavor and is often consumed for its high vitamin C content and potential health benefits, such as reducing high blood pressure.
- Elderflower tea: Made from the flowers of the elderberry plant, this tea has a sweet and floral flavor and is often consumed for its potential health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and relieving cold and flu symptoms.
Processing of Floral Tea
The processing of floral tea can vary depending on the specific type of flower used. However, in general, the processing of floral tea involves the following steps:
- Harvesting: The flowers used to make floral tea are usually harvested when they are at their peak freshness and flavor. The timing of the harvest can vary depending on the specific flower and the intended use of the tea.
- Drying: Once the flowers have been harvested, they are often dried to remove any moisture and prevent spoilage. Drying can be done naturally by hanging the flowers in a cool, dry place, or it can be done using specialized equipment.
- Sorting and Cleaning: After the flowers have been dried, they may be sorted to remove any damaged or discolored flowers, as well as any foreign matter or debris.
- Blending: Depending on the specific type of floral tea being made, different flowers may be combined to create a unique blend. Some floral teas may also include additional ingredients, such as herbs or fruit.
Overall, the processing of floral tea is generally simpler and less complex than the processing of traditional tea made from the Camellia sinensis plant, as floral tea does not undergo the same withering, oxidation, and rolling processes. However, some flowers, such as jasmine, may undergo scenting processes to enhance their aroma and flavor.
Health Benefits of Floral Tea
Floral teas, like many herbal teas, can have various health benefits depending on the specific flower used. Here are some common health benefits associated with different types of floral teas:
- Chrysanthemum tea: Chrysanthemum tea is often used to cool the body and reduce inflammation. It may also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and can be used to support eye health.
- Chamomile tea: Chamomile is known for its calming and relaxing properties and is often used to promote better sleep and reduce anxiety. Chamomile tea may also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Rose tea: Rose tea may have anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to soothe sore throats and menstrual cramps. It also contains vitamin C and antioxidants that can help to support the immune system.
- Lavender tea: Lavender is often used to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. Lavender tea may also have anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to ease headaches and digestive issues.
- Jasmine tea: Jasmine tea may have a calming effect and can be used to reduce stress and anxiety. It may also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Hibiscus tea: Hibiscus tea is high in vitamin C and antioxidants and may help to lower blood pressure and improve heart health. It may also have anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to support the immune system.
- Elderflower tea: Elderflower tea may help to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation. It can also be used to ease cold and flu symptoms.
It's important to note that while floral teas can have health benefits, they should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment or advice. It's always best to consult with a healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking medication.
How to Brew Perfect Floral Tea with Qi Aerista
Brew Floral Tea with Qi Aerista Smart Tea Brewer
Brewing the perfect cup of herbal tea with Qi Aerista Smart Tea Brewer is easy and straightforward. Here are some simple steps to follow:
- Start by adding 1 to 3 cups of water to the brewer’s pot.
- Place your floral tea ingredients in the infuser basket. One teaspoon of ingredients per cup of water added is a good starting point, but feel free to adjust to your liking.
- Place the infuser basket onto the pot and close the lid.
- Place the pot onto the base. Turn on the brewer.
- Select the Herbal tea type and press BREW. The preset brewing temperature is 96°C/205°F. The preset brewing time is 3.5 minutes. You can adjust the settings on your Qi Aerista app based on your type of floral tea.
- Qi Aerista completes the brewing process automatically. It first heats the water to the target brewing temperature. Then the patented infusion system kicks in and brews the tea within the preset brewing time.
- Once the brewing is done, tea leaves and finished tea will separate automatically. The tea will enter the keep warm mode for up to 60 minutes.
- When ready, just pour out the tea and serve. Sit back and enjoy your perfect cup of floral tea with Qi Aerista.
Floral tea is a wonderful and unique way to enjoy the flavors and aromas of flowers in your tea. Whether you're looking for a natural remedy for stress or anxiety, or simply want to explore new tastes and experiences, floral tea is a great choice. With so many different varieties to choose from, there's sure to be a floral tea that's perfect for your taste and needs.