The weather is turning warmer signaling the coming of summer. Herbal infusions are a fun, tasty, and easy way to stay cool as we head into summer.
Herbal teas are like nature’s secret potion for keeping you healthy. These teas are filled with good stuff like vitamins, antioxidants, and special compounds that help your body fight off sickness.
By sipping on herbal teas regularly, you can give your immune system a boost, calm down any inflammation in your body, and just keep everything running smoothly. Not only do these teas help you stay hydrated and aid your digestion, but they also work behind the scenes to detoxify your body, which is super important for staying healthy in the long run. Plus, the soothing and calming effects of herbal teas can help you relax, clear your mind, and reduce stress, all of which are key in staying well and keeping chronic illnesses at bay.
In this blog, I’ll talk about the benefits of some herbs you can easily find at the grocery store, your pantry, or even growing in your yard. I also share some super easy recipes of herbal teas that can help cool the body, calm the mind, and promote overall well-being during the sunny days ahead.
Chrysanthemum Tea
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, chrysanthemum tea is revered for its ability to clear heat from the body, particularly in the eyes and head. This cooling infusion is believed to nourish the liver and lungs, reduce inflammation, and support detoxification. Chrysanthemum tea is often recommended to soothe dry eyes, alleviate headaches, and promote relaxation during times of internal heat and stress.
Mint and Ginger Infusion
Mint and ginger are both valued in Chinese medicine for their ability to regulate the digestive system and harmonize the body’s energy. Mint is considered cooling and can help soothe the liver, while ginger adds warmth and aids in digestion. This aromatic infusion is beneficial for alleviating nausea, improving circulation, and boosting the body’s resilience to external pathogens.
Lemon Balm Tea
Lemon balm is cherished in Chinese medicine for its calming and uplifting properties on the heart and spirit. This fragrant herb is believed to soothe the mind, relieve stress, and promote mental clarity. Lemon balm tea is often used to support healthy sleep patterns, ease anxiety, and uplift the mood. This citrusy infusion is thought to nourish the heart, calm the mind, and harmonize the emotions, making it a valuable ally for promoting emotional well-being and inner peace.
Recipes
Chrysanthemum Tea Recipe
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons dried chrysanthemum flowers
2 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a teapot or heatproof pitcher, place the dried chrysanthemum flowers.
2. Heat the water in a saucepan until it just starts to boil.
3. Pour the hot water over the dried chrysanthemum flowers in the teapot.
4. Allow the tea to steep for about 5-7 minutes to infuse the flavors.
5. Strain the chrysanthemum tea into cups.
6. Serve the delicate and floral chrysanthemum tea for a calming experience.
Mint and Ginger Infusion Tea Recipe
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the fresh mint leaves and peel the ginger.
2. In a teapot or heatproof pitcher, combine the fresh mint leaves and grated ginger.
3. Heat the water in a saucepan until it just starts to boil.
4. Pour the hot water over the mint and ginger in the teapot.
5. Allow the tea to steep for about 5-7 minutes to infuse the flavors.
6. Strain the mint and ginger infusion tea into cups.
7. Serve the aromatic mint and ginger infusion tea
Lemon Balm Tea Recipe
Ingredients:
1 cup fresh lemon balm leaves
4 cups water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the fresh lemon balm leaves under running water.
2. Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan.
3. Add the lemon balm leaves to the boiling water.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the leaves simmer for about 5-10 minutes.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the tea to steep for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Strain the lemon balm tea into cups.
7. Enjoy the pure and fragrant lemon balm tea either hot or chilled.