Definition of tisane, tea, and herbal tea

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Can you tell which glass contains tisane, tea, or herbal tea?

Tea is a caffeinated beverage made by steeping the dried leaves or buds of the shrub Camellia sinensis (tea plant) in hot water for a few minutes. Herbal tea is made by adding herbs, spices, or fruit flavors to the tea plant.

Tisane is made with fresh or dried flowers, leaves, seeds, or roots by pouring boiling water over the plant parts and letting them steep for a few minutes. Seeds and roots are often boiled on a stove for a few minutes. The tisane is then strained and sometimes sweetened.

To know what you are buying, look at the ingredients on the box. Be aware that some boxes labeled herbal tea have no tea leaves in them and should be labeled tisane.