As the weather gets colder, we instinctively crave warm drinks. This lovely tea blend is not only a yummy addition to your daily ritual at home, but it is also a health-boosting drink for the whole family. The herbs used in this blend may promote happy digestion, soothe the throat and prevent colds.
Supplies
Bowl for mixing
Spoon
Tea bags and/or a dark glass container for storage
Organic dried herbs: basil leaf, peppermint, fennel seeds, licorice root (slices, ground bits, or powder)
Instructions
With a heaping tablespoon, add the following in a bowl and gently mix:
2 basil
3 fennel
6 peppermint
If you are using licorice root in powder or ground form, 1 licorice root. If you have licorice root slices, add 2-3 slices directly to each steeping cup, rather than to the tea blend.
Tea will stay fresh for up to a year if kept in a dark glass jar or container. Or, fill up muslin or other tea bags to use right away or give as gifts!
One tea ball strainer full is enough for one cup of tea, which is a little less than a tablespoon. Boil water, then pour water into a mug with the tea ball strainer. If you would like to make enough for a whole pot, figure out how many cups of tea the pot makes and then add the appropriate amount of tea into a larger strainer or tea bag. This will also work in some coffee makers. Steep 5-10 minutes. If the tea steeps too long, the taste may be affected.
Tips
Purchase only organic herbs from a reliable source, or grow your own.
Keep all unused herbs sealed and in a dark, cool place, away from direct heat and sunlight.
If you suspect that you might be allergic to any of the ingredients, do not use. Consult with an herbalist, Anthroposphical doctor, naturophath or other health care professional.
If you give tea bags as gifts, remember to label them with the ingredients. This is a fun project to do as a family!
One cup per day for ages 5 and up. If signs of a cold are starting, 2 cups a day is fine. If you are pregnant or have high blood pressure, seek medical advice before drinking any herbal teas.
This blend also makes a refreshing iced tea drink for warmer months!
Add other herbs or play with the ratios a bit to alter the taste.
Resources
Organic bulk herbs, tea strainers, tea pots, muslin bags: Mountain Rose Herbs
Books on herbs for the family can be found here.
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Jennifer Tan, MA is a certified aromatherapist who lives in Davis, California with her husband and three children. She blogs about homeschooling and Waldorf schooling at Syrendell. Jennifer and her husband enjoy leading handwork and curriculum workshops, teleseminars and consulting with homeschooling families at syrendellacademy.