Herbal Teas
Herbs include the leaves, bark, berries, roots, gums, seeds, stems and flowers of various plants. Because of their therapeutic value, herbs have been used for thousands of years to help maintain good health. Herbal teas are made from these herbs and are typically caffeine free. There is no real “tea” in herbal teas.
How to prepare herbal tea:
1 cup of water to 1 teaspoon dried or 1 tablespoon fresh herbs, a bit stronger if planning to serve it over ice. Cover the pot and let the infusion steep from 3 to 10 minutes, depending on the herb. If a stronger flavor is desired, use more herbs, because longer steeping may bring out a bitter flavor. Or put some fresh herbs and water in a clear glass jar and set it in the sun to brew on warm summer days.
Common Tea Herbs
| Catnip | Minty. Sedative, Relaxing. Stomach support. |
| Chamomile | Fruity aroma. Relaxing, aids digestion and nausea. |
| Dandelion | Bitter taste. Cleansing. Liver and Kidney Support. |
| Echinacea | Mild flavor. Immune system support. Relaxing |
| Fennel | Anise flavor. Warm/stimulating, eases colic, diuretic. |
| Ginger | Pungent. Stimulating, aids digestion. |
| Hibiscus | Tangy citrus flavor. Sweetens stomach and breath. |
| Nettle | Pleasant, grassy taste. Nutrient dense. Respiratory. |
| Peppermint | Minty. Digestion support. Sweetens breath. |
| Red Raspberry | Mild taste. Women’s health support. |
| Rooibos | Also called “Red Bush”. Antioxidant rich. |
| Rose Hips | Slight citrus flavor. Rich in vitamins C and A. |
| Senna | Bitter taste. Laxative. |
| Valerian Root | Pungent taste. Relaxing. Sedative. |
