Common questions
What makes Herb Man Teas different?
Herb Man Teas are formulated by master herbalist and Ayurvedic doctor Khabir Southwick, using only fresh, organic, loose-leaf herbs. Every blend comes from decades of hands-on herbal practice and has been refined through real use with thousands of clients worldwide.
All teas are made in small batches to keep them as fresh and potent as possible. With our constant high turnover, your herbs never sit around—they move from our shelves to your kitchen quickly. This is why we never let third-party warehouses store or ship our products. Fresh herbs make better tea.
Anyone can put herbs in a bag and make claims, but the formula is what makes a tea truly effective. The art is choosing the right herbs, in the right amounts, blended in the right way—something that only comes from long experience. As Herb Man likes to say:
“Our teas are made by an herbalist, not a company.”
How do the teas work?
Herb Man Teas are built on real herbal know-how. Every herb has its own nature—warming, cooling, drying, moistening, soothing, stimulating—and each one acts on different organs and systems in the body. When you understand those qualities, along with how the herb behaves before and after digestion, you can figure out the action it will have inside you. That’s how you build a tea that actually does something.
By blending herbs with the right qualities in the right amounts, you can guide the body in a certain direction, whether that’s helping things move, settle down, clean out, or strengthen. That’s the heart of true herbal work.
And here’s something folks often forget:
We don’t always know why an herb does what it does. Modern science is only beginning to explain these plant actions, and it may take a long time to fully understand what traditional herbalists have known for generations.
But knowing the “why” isn’t always necessary. That’s just thinking in the head. What matters is the “what” — what the herb actually does when used by someone who knows how to work with it. A master herbalist may not know every scientific reason behind a plant’s effect, but he sure knows how it behaves and how to use it to help the body.
That’s the tradition Herb Man follows:
Let the herbs do what they’re meant to do, and let the results speak for themselves.
How do I make the teas?
There are two simple and traditional ways to prepare herbal tea, and both are very flexible—Herb Man style.
• Infusion (for leaves and flowers)
Just pour hot, freshly boiled water over the tea, cover it, and let it steep. A few minutes is fine, or you can let it sit longer if you want a stronger brew. You can strain it, but Herb Man usually keeps the herbs right in the cup to get every bit of goodness out of them.
• Decoction (for roots and barks)
Put the herbs in a small pot, add water, and gently boil on low heat for about 15 minutes. Let it steep afterward, then pour into your cup. Straining is optional here too.
Every tea bag has its own instructions printed on the back, but nothing is rigid. There are plenty of variations, and you can always add more hot water to the same herbs to enjoy a second cup. It’s meant to be simple, enjoyable, and part of your daily routine.
How do I take the Ayurvedic formulas?
Ayurvedic formulas are taken using a simple process that helps the herbs activate and absorb properly. Here’s the Herb Man way to do it:
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Start with hot water.
Put your measured herbs in a cup and add a small amount of hot or boiling water to dissolve the powder. -
Let it sit a moment.
Once it softens and blends into the water, stir it into a smooth mixture. -
Add more water depending on your formula.
Some blends work best as a small “shot,” others as a fuller cup. Your instructions will tell you which is right. -
Drink it warm unless otherwise directed.
Most formulas absorb better warm. Pitta-type formulas (for heat or burning issues) may be taken cooler. -
Take it at the right time.
Some formulas are best before meals, others after, and some first thing in the morning or before bed. Follow the timing printed on the bag. -
Be consistent.
Formulas work best when taken regularly—usually twice per day for mild issues and three times per day for deeper conditions. -
Drink with the grits.
Don’t strain the herbs out. The whole herb should be consumed for the full effect. -
Adjust the amount if needed.
Sensitive people can start with less. If you need more support, you can carefully increase the dose within the recommended range.
Can I mix the teas and formulas together?
Yes, you can. You can also mix two teas or two formulas when they’re meant to be taken at the same time. Herb Man often does this in practice when someone needs stronger or more complete support.
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Mix two teas together when they support the same purpose.
Example: Relaxing Tea with Brain Tea, or Respiratory Tea with Immune Tea. -
Add a formula to a tea when they are for the same issue.
Example: Brain Formula in Brain Tea, Sleep Formula in Sleep Tea, Lung Formula in Lung Tea. -
Combine two formulas when they are taken at the same time of day.
Example: Weight Loss Formula with Cholesterol Formula (after meals), Sleep Formula with Colon Formula (before bed), Respiratory Formula with Immune Formula.
How can I make the Ayurvedic formulas taste better?
Ayurvedic formulas are strong and earthy because they’re made to work. You can make them easier to take after first dissolving the herbs in a little hot or boiling water (this step is always required). Once dissolved, try the following based on your situation:
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Weight loss, kapha, digestion, blood sugar:
Add a little raw honey once the water is warm, never hot. -
Vata issues (dryness, weakness, nerve support, reproductive or bone formulas):
Add ghee, warm milk, oat milk, or almond milk to make it smoother and more nourishing. -
Pitta issues (heat, burning, skin heat, acidity, migraines):
Let the formula cool, then add coconut water, coconut milk, or a little maple syrup. -
Respiratory, immune, cleansing formulas:
Add more water so it becomes a mild herbal drink that’s easier to sip. -
Formulas taken after meals:
Use very little water and take it like a warm “shot” with the herbal grits included. -
If the taste is the only problem:
Add a touch of stevia, or mix with oat or almond milk once dissolved. -
If all else fails:
Choose the capsule version, but know powders work faster and stronger than capsules.
Most folks get used to the taste after a couple of weeks. The important thing is simply to get it down so the herbs can do their job.
What if the tea or Ayruveda formula doesn't give me the results I'm looking for?
Herbal products—whether teas or Ayurvedic formulas—support the body gradually, and different issues require different levels of herbal strength. If progress seems slow, consider the following adjustments:
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Use a stronger amount.
Many people start with very small servings. Increasing the quantity of herbs often gives the body the push it needs. Stronger teas and slightly larger servings of formulas are both safe and effective ways to enhance results. -
Increase how often you take your herbs.
Twice a day may not be enough for some conditions. Spreading several servings throughout the day can provide steadier support and help the herbs work more deeply. -
Give the process more time.
Every organ system responds at its own pace. Restorative blends may take a week or more. Circulatory, cholesterol, liver, or metabolic formulas often need consistent use over many weeks or months to create meaningful changes. -
Upgrade from a tea to an Ayurvedic formula when needed.
Teas are ideal for mild concerns or early symptoms.
Ayurvedic formulas are stronger and more targeted.
When an issue is more serious or long-standing, combining both is often the most effective approach—this is how Herb Man typically supports clients in practice. -
Long-term use is usually perfectly fine.
Most herbal products can be taken regularly for extended periods, especially when made from pure, organic, chemical-free ingredients. Many people feel best when they stay on a supportive blend for ongoing maintenance. -
Consider lifestyle factors that may be slowing progress.
Habits like heavy caffeine, irregular meals, processed foods, stress, or poor sleep can overpower the benefits of herbs. Sometimes adjusting daily habits is the missing piece.
If you’re still unsure which product or combination is right for your situation, or you want clear direction on your specific health concerns, you can schedule an online consultation at:
https://KhabirsClinic.com
Why aren’t the teas provided in tea bags without paying extra?
Herb Man Teas are kept loose-leaf on purpose. Loose herbs stay stronger, fresher, and much more effective than anything squeezed into a tiny tea bag. Bagging herbs adds extra labor and reduces the overall strength of the blend.
Here’s why we don’t include tea bags for free:
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Loose-leaf herbs are naturally more powerful.
Whole leaves, roots, flowers, and bark need room to expand and release their full benefits. -
Tea bags add labor and raise the cost.
Filling and sealing bags by hand takes time, and keeping the herbs loose keeps your price lower. -
Everyone uses a different amount.
Some folks want a mild cup, others need it very strong. Loose herbs let you decide the strength that works for you. -
Loose herbs give you more flexibility.
You can steep longer, make a stronger brew, or re-steep the same herbs for a second cup.
And as Herb Man always says:
“Just leave the herbs in the cup — and if you swallow a little, it’s fine.”
For decades, Herb Man never offered tea bags at all. He finally gave in and allowed the option only recently — but when he meets clients in person, he still doesn’t suggest tea bags, because loose herbs simply work better.
If you prefer bags, we offer empty biodegradable tea bags for a small additional cost so you can fill them to your liking.
Why aren’t the Ayurvedic formulas provided in capsules without paying extra?
Our formulas are offered as powders because that’s the traditional way they’ve been used for thousands of years — and it’s still the most effective. Capsules are convenient, but they require extra labor and reduce the herb’s contact with water, which can weaken absorption.
Here’s why capsules aren’t included for free:
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Powders work stronger and faster.
When you mix the herbs with hot water, they activate immediately and absorb better. Inside capsules, the herbs take longer to break down and don’t work as quickly. -
Capsules add extra labor and raise the cost.
Each capsule must be filled by hand, counted, and bottled. Keeping the formulas in powder form allows us to keep the price lower. -
Powder gives you full control of the dose.
Some folks need a little, others need a lot. Powder lets you easily adjust the exact amount you take. -
Traditional Ayurvedic formulas are meant to be taken with water.
Warm water helps deliver the herbs to the right tissues in the body. Capsules skip this important part of the process.
Herb Man says it plainly:
“The powders work better — capsules are just for convenience.”
After decades of practice, he finally allowed capsule versions for those who truly can’t take powders, but he does not recommend them as the first choice.
Capsules are available for a small additional cost if you prefer them, but for the strongest results, the powder form is always best.
What do I do if I have an undesirable effect from a tea or formula?
Herbal products are strong because they’re real, whole herbs. Most people do great with them, but occasionally the body reacts a little as things begin to move. If something feels off:
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Check the ingredients first.
Make sure there’s nothing you’re allergic or sensitive to. True allergies are rare, but it’s always worth checking. -
If no allergens are present, reduce the amount.
Sensitive individuals, children, or anyone going through deeper cleansing often need to start with lighter amounts of both teas and formulas. -
Let your body adjust, then increase as needed.
Once things settle, slowly return to the regular amount so the herbs can be fully effective. -
Understand that certain sensations are normal.
Mild gurgling in the gut, slight heaviness, or shifting in the body can happen when herbs begin doing their job. This is common with both teas and formulas and usually passes quickly. -
If the flavor is challenging, that’s normal too.
These are therapeutic blends, not flavored drinks. As Herb Man likes to say,
“Take your bitter medicine.”
Staying consistent is the key. Finish your bag or bottle, give the herbs time to work, and adjust the amount to match your comfort level.
How should I store my teas and Ayurvedic formulas?
All of our teas and formulas are made from pure, organic herbs with no preservatives, so they must be stored with a little care. If they get damp or sit in a humid place, the herbs can spoil or lose their strength.
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Keep them dry.
Moisture is the main thing that causes herbs to go bad. -
Store them in a cool place.
Avoid heat, direct sunlight, and steamy areas like kitchens and bathrooms. -
Use them within 6 months for best results.
This applies to both teas and Ayurvedic formulas. After about six months they are still safe, but they slowly lose potency as time goes on.
Treat your herbs like fresh food from nature. Keep them dry, keep them cool, and use them regularly so you get the full power of the plants.
Are these teas organic?
Yes. All Herb Man Teas are made from 100% certified organic herbs with no additives, flavors, preservatives, or fillers. For medicinal-use teas, it is essential that the herbs be grown without pesticides, chemical fertilizers, or other harmful substances, as these toxins are not suitable for the body.
A small percentage of our ingredients are wildcrafted, meaning they are harvested from natural, untouched environments—an approach that is both safe and often more potent. Herb Man Teas never purchases herbs that are not organic or wildcrafted.
How long will it take for my order to arrive?
We know y’all are excited to get your herbs, so our little shipping crew moves fast. About 95% of all orders ship out the very next business day, and the rest roll out on the second day. Ayurvedic formulas in capsules may take an extra day to prepare, and once in a while a big order might add a slight delay—but we’re always hustlin’ to keep things moving.
Most folks get their package in about 3 days, though sometimes it can take a little longer depending on the mail carriers and your location.
Once your label is printed, the system will send you multiple updates—you’ll get emails from the moment we print the label all the way to when your package lands in your mailbox. If you included your phone number, you might get a few helpful text messages too.
You can always use your tracking number to see exactly where your order is. And if you ever need help, just reach out through the contact form and we’ll take care of you.
What is your refund policy?
Herb Man Teas accepts returns only on unopened, sealed products in their original condition. Returns must be requested within 14 days of delivery, and all opened, used, tampered, or custom-made formulas are not eligible for return or refund.
Approved returns may include a 20% restocking fee, which is waived if you choose store credit instead of a refund. Shipping costs are not refundable. Customers are responsible for return shipping unless otherwise authorized.
If your order arrives damaged or incorrect, contact support within 48 hours with a photo and your order number so a replacement can be sent.
Orders may be modified or canceled within 24 hours if they have not yet shipped.
For full details or to start a return, visit:Returns & Refund Policy
Do you sell wholesale?
No, we do not offer wholesale. Herb Man Teas are sold exclusively through this website, select online marketplaces, and directly during Zoom appointments with Khabir.
We don’t distribute through stores, clinics, or other sellers. Keeping everything in-house ensures the herbs stay fresh, properly prepared, and handled the way Herb Man intends.
If you need help choosing the right products, you can always book an online appointment at KhabirsClinic.com
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