Tisane (UK /tɪˈzæn/, US /tɪˈzɑːn/), or "herbal tea", is a catch-all term for any non-caffeinated beverage made from the infusion or decoction of herbs, spices, or other plant material. These drinks are distinguished from caffeinated beverages like coffee, maté and the true teas (black, green, white, yellow, oolong, etc.), or from a decaffeinated tea, in which the caffeine has been removed. In addition to serving as a beverage, many tisanes are also consumed due to a perceived medicinal benefit.
Like brews made from the tea bush (Camellia sinensis), such infusions are prepared by combining hot water and fruits, leaves, roots or grains. The resulting drink can be served hot or cold. Tisanes have been used for nearly as long as written history extends. Documents have been recovered dating back to as early as Ancient Egypt and Ancient China that discuss the enjoyment and uses of tisanes. Among the Chinese, tisanes are commonly known as liang cha (Chinese: 涼茶; Mandarin Pinyin: liáng chá; Jyutping: loeng4 caa4).
Read more about Herbal Tea: Etymology, Medicinal Concerns, Antioxidant Properties, Composition, Popular Culture
Famous quotes containing the word tea:
“There is not enough exercise in this way of life. I try to make up by active gymnastics before I dress when I get up, by walking rapidly in the lower hall and the greenhouse after each meal for perhaps five to ten minutes, and a good hand rubbing before going to bed. I eat moderately; drink one cup of coffee at breakfast and one cup of tea at lunch and no other stimulant. My health is now, and usually, excellent.”
—Rutherford Birchard Hayes (1822–1893)