Many herbs can be brewed into delicious tasting and healthful teas. The beneficial qualities of herbal teas can be enhanced by growing them in the home garden. This ensures not only that the herbs are chemical and pesticide free, but home grown herbs are fresher and more potent than those that have been sitting on the store shelf. Herbal teas can be brewed with either fresh or dried herbs.
Harvesting and Drying
The best time to harvest herbs is just before they are to flower. There are exceptions, like lavender and chamomile. With these it is the flowers that are harvested and used to make the teas. After harvesting herbs, wash and dry them well, and pick off any yellow or brown herbs.
Most tea herbs can be dried by simply bunching the stalks loosely and tying with string. They should be hung upside down in a well ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. It can take several days for them to dry. Make sure herbs are completely dry before storing them, to prevent spoilage. They should be brittle and crumble easily. Herbs can be stored in just about any clean, dry container, but metal should never be used. Properly dried herbs will keep for up to one year. After that, they will begin to lose potency.
Fresh herbs can be preserved well by freezing them. Small amounts of fresh herbs can be stored in freezer bags. Chopping should be done before freezing, as the herbs will be limp when they are thawed.
Brewing Tea
Herbs should be steeped in boiled water for 5-10 minutes, depending on the herb and the desired strength of the tea. All herbs can be sweetened with honey or maple syrup if desired. Milk should not be added, though, as it will alter the flavor unfavorably. All of the following directions are for one large mug of tea.
Catnip Tea
Soothing catnip tea can be made by pouring boiling water over 2 teaspoons of dried catnip leaves. It should be steeped for 5 or 6 minutes. This tea is particularly good with honey and lemon.
Mint Tea
All of the mints make good teas, which are invigorating and refreshing. Mint is good when combined with chamomile. Pour boiling water over about 2 dozen chopped leaves or 2 teaspoons of dried leaves. Steep for at least 5 minutes.
Chamomile Tea
The favorite of many herbal tea enthusiasts, chamomile tea is known for being calming and soothing. It makes a very good iced tea as well. To make chamomile tea, pour boiling water over 1 teaspoon of dried flowers, or1 tablespoon of fresh flowers. Steep for up to 10 minutes.
Most herbal teas will require approximately 3 teaspoons of fresh chopped herbs or 1 teaspoon of dried herbs, but will vary according to taste. Those with ragweed allergies should use caution with such herbs as chamomile or echinacea, as these may also cause an allergic reaction.
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