Herbal teas can be comforting, soothing and tasty, and a good alternative to over-sugary soft drinks. They are also used as herbal remedies. The recipes and combinations of herbs are endless. Meals and moods can be enhanced with tea. The process can be simple, using one herb and a tea ball in a cup, or the tea can also be used as a part of an event or ceremony, and served in special pottery. Some of my favorites are lemon (either lemon verbena or lemon balm), spearmint and chamomile. Experiment and decide what your favorite herb teas are. Plan your garden to include your favorites. Consult books and websites for ideas. Just remember, each person's tastes are unique, and a friend or relative may prefer a different combination of herbs.
HOW TO MAKE
Most herbal teas are infusions made by pouring boiling fresh filtered water over fresh or dried herb leaves or flowers for 5 to 10 minutes to release the herbs' aromatic oils. The general rule is 1 teaspoon of dried herb or 3 teaspoons fresh crushed herb to 1 cup water that has just stopped boiling. The herb (or herbs) can be placed directly into the water or a filter or tea ball can be used. Some teas may require more or less herbs for the best taste. Beware of steeping for too long, as some herb teas will turn bitter. Tea-brewing accessories include infuser spoon or two-inch mesh ball for one cup of tea, larger mesh ball or strainer for a pot of tea. Empty tea bags can also be purchased to fill with your favorite herbs. You can find these items as well as teapots and cups in various tea catalogues and sites on the Internet (see below).
Favorite Herb Teas and Combinations
Many herbs which are good for you do not have the best of tastes on their own. I prefer to combine these herbs - such as motherwort, yarrow and passion flower - with green tea and a little honey. Some other herb teas and combinations include chamomile (wonderful flavor), catnip (soothing, aids digestion, not just for cats), rose hips (high in Vitamin C), clover blossom (with mint), ginger (good for digestion), mint (aids digestion), rosemary with lavender flowers, lemon and honey, and sassafras tea.
Herb Tea Garden
Grow your own herb tea garden! First, choose plants that are easy to grow and that you will enjoy. Look at recipes and herbs which appeal to you and incorporate those herbs into your garden plan.
