Steep Time Calculator

Chinese Herbal Steep-Time Guide: Perfect Brew 

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Not sure how to prepare your herbs? Start by identifying which part of the plant you have. Delicate herbs are often steeped, while tougher herbs are commonly simmered.

Find Your Herb Type

Assortment of herbal flowers including yellow chrysanthemum, chamomile, lavender, calendula, echinacea, dried rosebuds, and jasmine flowers used in traditional herbal teas and infusions.

Flowers

STEEP
5–10 min

Hot water, covered

Example: Chrysanthemum (Ju Hua)

Leaves

STEEP
5–10 min

Hot water, covered

Example: Peppermint (Bo He)

Soft Berries & Fruits

STEEP
10–15 min

Hot water

Example: Goji Berries (Gou Qi Zi)

Hard Berries & Seeds

SIMMER
20–40 min

Gentle simmer

Example: Schisandra (Wu Wei Zi)

Roots & Rhizomes

SIMMER
20–45 min

Gentle simmer

Example: Astragalus (Huang Qi)

Bark & Woody Herbs

SIMMER
20–40 min

Gentle simmer

Example: Eucommia Bark (Du Zhong)

Steeping vs. simmering herbal preparation guide comparing hot-water infusions for delicate leaves and flowers (5–15 minutes) with gentle simmering for roots, bark, and hard herbs (20–45 minutes), including brewing methods and temperatures

Steeping vs. Simmering: What's the Difference?

Steeping (Infusion)

Commonly used for delicate leaves, flowers, and certain soft fruits.

  1. Place the appropriate amount of herb into a cup or teapot.
  2. Add water at the recommended temperature.
  3. Cover and steep for the appropriate time.
  4. Strain before drinking.

Simmering (Decoction)

Commonly used for dense roots, bark, and certain hard fruits or seeds.

  1. Add the measured herbs and water to a suitable saucepan.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.
  3. Simmer gently for the appropriate time.
  4. Strain before use.

Why Preparation Times Vary

Herbal preparation is not determined by plant part alone. The same herb may require a different method depending on whether it is whole, sliced, crushed, powdered, or included in a traditional formula.

Some aromatic herbs are added near the end of a decoction. Certain dense materials may require longer simmering. Other herbs need special processing before use.

Remember: Steeping time is not the same as dosage. The amount of an herb, its preparation, and whether it is appropriate for you must be considered separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I steep roots instead of simmering them?

Some roots can be prepared as infusions, especially when finely cut or powdered, but many traditionally require simmering. Follow herb-specific preparation instructions.

Can I prepare different herbs together?

Many traditional formulas combine herbs, but some ingredients require different cooking times or special preparation. Combining herbs should follow an appropriate formula and professional guidance.

Does steeping longer make an herb better?

Not necessarily. Longer extraction can change flavor and the substances extracted. More time does not automatically mean a better or safer preparation.

Do herbal extract powders need simmering?

Many concentrated extract powders are prepared differently from raw bulk herbs. Follow the product's specific instructions rather than applying raw-herb simmering times.

Bonus Tip:  

Traditional Chinese Tea-Making: Understanding Water Temperature

In traditional Chinese tea-making, people often judge water temperature by watching the bubbles as the water heats.

  • Shrimp Eyes: Tiny bubbles begin forming at the bottom of the pot. The water is heating but is not yet boiling.

  • Crab Eyes: The bubbles become larger and more noticeable. The water is getting hotter.

  • String of Pearls: Streams of bubbles rise toward the surface. The water is approaching a full boil.

Why does this matter?

Different teas benefit from different water temperatures. Lower temperatures can help preserve delicate flavors and aromas, while hotter water is often used for stronger teas.

Helpful Tip: These traditional bubble descriptions are approximate guides, not exact temperatures. For preparing Chinese medicinal herbs, always follow the specific herb's recommended brewing instructions. 

 

Ready to Prepare Your Herbs?

Explore our educational herbal guides and learn more about traditional preparation methods.

How to Use Bulk Herbs Herbal Guides & How-To

1st Chinese Herbs
Family-Owned Since 1994
Traditional Knowledge • Responsible Education

Educational Disclaimer: This guide is for general herbal education and does not provide personalized medical advice, treatment recommendations, or individualized dosing. Herbs may interact with medications or be unsuitable for certain people. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using unfamiliar herbs, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or managing a medical condition.

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