All culinary herbs are suitable choices for making herbal teas, some herbs such as Oregano, Sage and Rosemary help the immune system among other medicinal indications. Some herbs are useful for settling an upset stomach, such as mint, parsley or lemon balm. While others work as a sleep aid. As you research the herbs you are growing, make note of the health and medicinal value of each one. Also note any common side effects and adjust your herbal blends according to your own dietary and medical needs.
The herbs you use can be as varied as your taste buds desire. Either herbal blends, or a single herb are suitable. Lemon Balm, Lemon Grass, Mint, Rosemary, Lavender, Sage, Thyme, Oregano and Basil can all be used to make an herbal tea. Try Rosemary and Vanilla, or Lemon Balm with fresh lemon rind. or a combination of Rosemary, Thyme, Sage and Parsley for the medicinal immune building properties in those herbs.
Harvest the fresh herbs
Harvest the herbs in the early morning while the volitile oils are at their peak for the most flavor. Wash the herbs and shake out excess water.
Using Dried herbs
When using dried herbs you will need to use more than if using fresh herbs. The flavor of the fresh herbs is much stronger than dried herbs. If blending herbs, use equal portions of each herb or adjust to your own taste if you favor one herb flavor over another.
Method One
Bring Water to a boil and add your fresh herbs. Turn off the heat and allow the herbs to steep until desired strength.
Method Two
Place your herbs in a coffee filter lined drip maker. Run the drip maker for desired number of cups and allow the hot water to drip through the herbs. The tea is ready when the coffee maker has finished.
Method Three
Make bundles of herbs using cheese cloth or muslin. Cut squares about 4-6 inches square, place the herbs in the center. Pull the cloth from each corner and tie kitchen twine to hold the cloth securely around the herbs. Pour hot water into a heat proof mug, place the herb bundle into the hot water and steep until desired strength.
Method Four
Pour hot water into a heat proof mug. Place herbs in a Tea infuser and close. Dip the infuser into the hot water and allow to steep until desired strength.
Method Five
Place herbs in a gallon jar along with tea bags and set in the sun to make Solar Herbal Tea.
See my instructions for making Solar Herb tea at the following link:
http://justfowlingaround.weebly.com/sweets-treats-and-drinks/rosemary-solar-tea
http://justfowlingaround.weebly.com/sweets-treats-and-drinks/lemon-balm-solar-tea
CAUTION: Normally there are few side effects with most herbs, however, as with all herbs, use only in moderation whether for you, your family or friends. Pregnant or Lactating females should not use any herbs without consulting their primary physician. For individuals that have bleeding disorders or on prescribed blood thinners do not use Oregano, it may increase bleeding. For those allergic to mint, basil, lavender or sage do not use Oregano, it may cause the same allergic reaction. Long term use of any herb may cause medical issues. Do your research through reliable and accurate sources such as your State Agriculture website, do not rely on random websites or social media for your information. Information you obtain from non-professionals can put you or your family at risk for serious side effects.
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CREDENTIALS: Certified Oregon State Master Gardener since 1999. Horticulture degree 2001. Study of Herbs and Horticulture Therapy, heavy research and study of all plants and herbs. Gardening a lifetime.