Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need special equipment to brew?

You need a pot with a lid, a fine mesh strainer, a digital kitchen scale, and a thermometer. A ceramic or cast iron pot is ideal for heat retention. The lid is not optional — what escapes in steam is lost.

What temperature for each stage?

Stage I (roots) — near boiling, around 95°C. Stage II (herbs) — medium heat, around 80°C. Stage III (florals) — low heat, around 65°C. Stage IV (finishing waters) — below 50°C, nearly room temperature.

How long does each stage take?

Stage I — 8 to 12 minutes, covered. Stage II — 15 to 20 minutes, covered. Stage III — 10 minutes. Stage IV — stir once and strain immediately.

Can I use a tea bag instead of loose leaf?

No. The 4-stage method requires loose ingredients added at different times and temperatures. A tea bag cannot replicate this.

How much water do I use?

500ml per serving as a starting point. Adjust based on how concentrated you want the brew.

Can I brew a larger batch and store it?

Yes — brew up to 1 litre and store in a sealed glass container in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. Reheat gently — never boil again.

What is the difference between Bloom & Tonic and Apothicaire du Cœur?

Bloom & Tonic is the morning house — structured, bitter, aromatic, designed for the body in motion. Apothicaire du Cœur is the evening house — soft, warm, floral, designed for the body returning. Same philosophy, different hours.

Are the ingredients organic?

We source the highest quality botanicals available. Where certified organic is available and does not compromise quality, we use it. All ingredients are listed on the label.

Are the infusions safe during pregnancy?

Some botanicals in our collection are not recommended during pregnancy — particularly ginger in large quantities, passionflower, and dandelion root. Please consult your healthcare provider before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Are the infusions safe for children?

Our infusions are formulated for adults. We do not recommend them for children under 16 without medical advice.

Do the infusions contain caffeine?

No. None of our current infusions contain caffeine.

Do the infusions contain allergens?

Please check the full ingredient list on each product. If you have known allergies to any botanical ingredients, consult your healthcare provider before use.

What is the booklet?

The Apothicaire du Cœur booklet is a 54-page companion to the evening collection. It contains the philosophy of the nine moods, the history of each botanical, brewing instructions, and Charlotte’s Grâce Nocturne — the story of IX. It is sold as a digital PDF and as a printed object.

When does the printed booklet arrive?

The booklet is printed on demand via Peecho and shipped worldwide. Delivery times vary by location — typically 5–10 working days within Europe, 10–15 days internationally.

Can I gift the booklet?

Yes. The bundle (digital + print) is designed for exactly this — keep the digital, gift the print. Or gift both.

Where do you ship?

Worldwide. We ship from Amsterdam.

How long does shipping take?

Netherlands: 1–3 working days. Europe: 3–7 working days. Rest of world: 7–14 working days.

How much does shipping cost?

Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on your location and order weight.

Can I track my order?

Yes. You will receive a tracking number by email once your order ships.

What is the Monthly Ritual subscription?

Seven new recipes every month, delivered digitally on the first of every month. Each month centres on one seasonal botanical or theme. Cancel anytime.

Can I switch from monthly to annual?

Yes — contact us at hello@botanicalhouses.com and we will arrange the switch.

How do I cancel?

You can cancel anytime from your account or by emailing hello@botanicalhouses.com. No questions asked.