Herbal teas are one of the most common ways to enjoy herbs in a daily setting. Did you know this method of preparation is also called a Herbal Infusion?! But what I am going to be talking about in this post is the next step up from tea, and it is called a Nourishing Herbal Infusion.
A nourishing herbal infusion generally refers to herbs brewed over a long period. This allows for stronger mineral content in the tea. Nettle leaf is one of my favorite herbs to use to help support muscle pain, arthritis, and blood sugar management.
When nettle is steeped for a short brew nettle tea the calcium content per cup can be expected to be near the five to ten-milligram range. When nettle is long brewed for an herbal infusion, we can expect to see the calcium content rise significantly to contain up to five hundred milligrams per cup. See the difference here?!
Nutritive herbs and nourishing tonics embody the essence of “people’s medicine,” offering a safe and accessible avenue for enhancing health for individuals of all backgrounds. While they generally pose fewer safety concerns compared to some pharmaceutical interventions, it’s essential to remain vigilant about potential allergic reactions or interactions with medications.
Consulting with a trained expert can provide personalized insights into which herbs are suitable for your specific needs and circumstances.
Nourishing herbs are called ‘nourishing’ because they are nutritional powerhouses filled with minerals, vitamins, and phytochemicals! Their effects can be slower acting, yet powerful. As you know, I will always advocate for whole, nutrient-dense foods, and nourishing herbs make important contributions to optimizing overall health and should not be discounted.
Nourishing herbs are particularly beneficial for bolstering daily nutritional intake and can serve as valuable allies during periods of heightened nutritional requirements. Tea stands out as a potent source of phytonutrients, further enriching the arsenal of tools available for cancer prevention and management.
Phytonutrients, also known as plant compounds, encompass a diverse range of bioactive substances found in tea, such as catechins, flavonoids, and polyphenols. These compounds exhibit powerful antioxidant properties, effectively neutralizing harmful free radicals and reducing oxidative stress, which is closely linked to the development and progression of cancer.
Moreover, certain phytonutrients in tea have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects, inhibiting inflammatory pathways that contribute to tumorigenesis (tumor formation) and metastasis (tumor spread). By regularly incorporating tea into one’s dietary regimen, individuals can harness the potent anti-cancer properties of phytonutrients, fortifying their bodies against the onset and spread of cancer while promoting overall health and well-being.
Whether incorporated into meals or consumed as herbal supplements, herbal infusions’ role in supporting optimal health should not be underestimated. By embracing the power of nutritive herbs and nourishing tonics, you can enhance their well-being and embark on a journey towards holistic health.
A nourishing herbal infusion ideal use is to boost the daily nutritional status of the diet, or for acute use during times of additional nutritional needs. They are easy to make! Try out this simple recipe below and let us know how it went for you!
How To Make A Nourishing Herbal Infusion
- Approximately one ounce of dried herb is placed in a quart-size jar
- Fill with boiling water
- Let sit for 4-12 hours
- Strain and drink within one day (2-4 cups per day)
Vanessa Harris, MNT
Oncology Nutritionist
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