Herbier des Anciens — Detailed notebook

Green tea

Camellia sinensis

Please read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment, or use in children, seek professional advice before use.

Contains caffeine: avoid or limit in the evening, in case of nervous sensitivity, sleep disorders, or heart conditions. Regular and substantial consumption has been associated with reduced iron absorption; individuals with anemia or pregnant women should space its intake from meals and seek professional advice. Concentrated extracts (capsules, high-dose dry extracts) differ from traditional infusion and have been associated with rare liver damage: their use should remain supervised by a healthcare professional. Possible interactions with certain medications (anticoagulants, certain liver treatments): seek advice if on ongoing treatment.

Infusion — Leaves

Traditional green tea infusion

Pour simmering water, never boiling, over the leaves and let steep for a few minutes covered. This gentle temperature preserves aromatic delicacy and avoids excessive bitterness. Approximately 2 to 3 g of leaves (one teaspoon) per 200 ml cup, steep for 2 to 3 minutes at 70-80°C, up to 2-3 cups per day.

Compress — Infused leaves

Soothing compress

Prepare a standard infusion, let it cool completely, then soak a clean cloth or compresses in it. Apply to the desired area for a few minutes, for external use only. Dosage should be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Powder — Dried and ground leaves

Green tea powder (matcha style)

Young dried leaves are finely ground into powder, then whisked directly into hot water according to Japanese tradition, without filtration. This concentrated form warrants more moderate consumption than standard infusion. Dosage should be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Sourcing the plant

Green tea leaves can be found in herbal shops, specialty grocery stores, and retail outlets; it is also possible to grow it in mild, humid climates, on acidic and well-drained soil.

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