How to Make Your Own Herbal Tea
Herbal teas not only provide you with a sense of relief during long hectic days, they also come in handy for various ailments like cough and colds.
There are many different herbs to choose from when making tea. With a little bit of your own personal touch, you can successfully rest back and enjoy a cup or two any time of the day.
Different Herbs
Depending on the effect that you want, there are many types of herbs available. If you're looking for something mild and relaxing, you may want to pick chamomile. Eucalyptus, licorice and ginger have soothing effects that are very helpful if you’re experiencing respiratory problems or a cold. If you want something that lifts up your mood, try using thyme, spearmint, lavender or cinnamon.
You may also try mixing more than one herb at a time. Try exploring the different tastes and effects. These herbs are good for your health since they have antioxidant properties that rid your body of waste products and also aid in digestion. Observe for any changes and reactions as well especially when taking medications or if you have underlying conditions.
Making the Tea
Fill at least half a kettle with water then heat on a stove until it is boiling. Putting too little water may cause everything to evaporate. Take a teapot then fill it up with the boiling water from the kettle. Close the top with the lid to maintain the heat.
Doing this will heat the teapot which in turn will warm your herbal tea for longer periods of time. Give it about 3 minutes to warm up then pour out all the water on the kitchen sink. Do the same for the teacups.
Take the leaves and flowers of the herb you chose. You may choose to directly place the herbs or wrap them in a tea bag. Place one teaspoon of herbs in each teacup and the teapot. Teabags are also placed in the same manner. Place one teabag per cup and another one for the teapot. Another reliable measurement would be to put one teaspoon of herbs for every cup of water.
Take the kettle and pour hot water into the teacups and teapot. Allow everything to steep for 5 to 8 minutes. Take out the teabag after or strain the tea. Steeping for long periods will draw out tannins that have very bitter taste. Check how the herbal tea tastes. If it seems diluted, you may add more herbs or add more hot water if it’s too strong.
Once the herbal tea is perfect to your taste, feel free to add milk or honey if you like for added sweetness. It is okay to have leaves floating in the tea if you're not using teabags as long as you've properly strained the contents initially to avoid tannins. Add garnish to make everything look more presentable.
Vanessa Arellano Doctor
