Not All “Tea” Is Tea
Herbal teas, also known as tisanes (from the French word for herb or flower infusion), are a beloved part of tea culture. But despite the name, they’re not technically tea. Only beverages made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant—like green or black tea—are considered true tea.
Tisanes are made from a wide variety of botanicals: leaves, flowers, fruits, roots, and more. The word “herb” comes from the Latin herba, meaning plant or grass, and today describes aromatic plants known for their wellness benefits.
In fact, in some countries, the term “tea” is legally reserved for drinks made solely from the tea plant. That means popular blends like chamomile, peppermint, or rooibos fall under the category of herbal infusions—not tea.