Herbal tea often referred to as tisanes is not tea. For a beverage to be considered a true tea, it must come from the leaves of the tea plant, camellia sinensis. Because herbal tea often brewed similar to tea, it’s called tea. Herbal tea beverage is from the infusion or decoction of herbs, fruit, and spices. Herbal teas usually don’t contain caffeine. It is a good idea to check with your doctor if you take certain medicines before trying herbal teas.