Whether it is at the time of the break, at work or on Sunday under a plaid, enjoying an infusion is always a “pleasure”. But what are the ones sold in trade, in a sachet? To find out, we asked Dr. Laure Martinat, anesthesiologist and phytherapy, micronutrition.
Sachets far from impeccable
“”Many infusions are made from poor quality sachets. Their packaging is made of plastic or plastic derivatives that release micro and plastic nano in the drink when “prepare” begins the specialist.
Some manufacturers opt for paper sachets, but again, the danger is not dismissed. “”Some packaging is made of paper, indeed, but it can also have toxic residues. Because the paper used is often bleached with chlorine that is found in the drink“.
Poor quality plants, very often
The problem does not stop at packaging. “”Plants in sachets are often also of poor quality. Even if we buy from the brand, it is not necessarily a guarantee of quality“She adds. In addition, the plants are”crushed,, This alters the quality of active ingredients “.
Another problem: quantity. “”The plants are in too small quantities, in the sachets, there are 1 gram or 1.5 grams of plant, or even less. While quantity is an important data to trigger the medicinal properties of the plant“Specifies the specialist.
Often unsuitable plant mixtures
The practitioner also highlights a technical constraint. “”Plants in the sachets also have no place to expand correctly. There is therefore a less good quality of infusion since the plant is less in contact with water “.
Finally, the mixtures offered by brands are not always suitable. “”There are often mixtures of different types of plants, which do not always prepare in infusion. For example, liquorice. It is often added due to its sweet and softening power, but in reality the licorice root must be prepared in decoction and not in infusion “ Details the expert again.
Bulk, a more qualitative alternative
To fully enjoy the benefits of plants, Laure Martinat recommends another method. “”Instead, favor bulk plants. Prepare them in a teapot by pouring the plants inside. You can also use a stainless steel sieve in your cup, to filter and recover the infusion “.
The tea balls remain practical, but with a reserve: “sI Plants are too packed in the ball, this will alter the quality of the infusion “.
Finally, of course, the choice of plants is essential. “We favor plants from organic farming, especially if we regularly consume infusions. They will be free from plastic, endocrine disruptors, heavy metals, pesticides …”, Recalls Dr. Martinat.
The right gestures to adopt, to prepare your herbal tea
Finally, the effectiveness of a herbal tea also depends on its preparation and the conservation of plants. “”We pay attention to the method of drying plants which can alter its active ingredients. And we keep them in a dry place, without forgetting to check them regularly. If we see an unpleasant odor, it should not be consumed, because it is possible that it has developed mold “.
Last point, the quantity to be used. “”There is generally one to 3 teaspoons curved as a function of the type of plant ” recommends Laure Martinat. “But it is better to take advice from a seller who knows his plants, in order to know precisely the best way to prepare them and the benefits that can be drawn from a medicinal point of view”.