If you love herbal teas, as I do, you know they
are just
a little bit pricey. However, growing your own
herbs is
easy and so much fun!
Here are just a few of the herbs you might want to
consider for a tea garden:
Chamomile: Remember the favorite tea of Peter Rabbit?
Only the flowers of this fragrant herb are used when
making tea. Chamomile tea can be enjoyed by itself
or
you might enjoy adding mint or lemon verbena.
Lemon Balm: This herb is lemony with a touch of
mint
and makes a soothing cup ot tea.
It's easy to grow (almost too easy) so remember
to
keep it clipped back.
Lemon Verbena: An excellent herb to grow in a sunny
spot, it makes a delicious tea. You might try combining
it with orange mint or spearmint.
Mints: There are many mints available. Generally,
they
are aromatic plants and they are aggressive. It may be
a
good idea to plant mint in a pot and then put the pot
in
the ground so it doesn't take over your herb garden.
Spearmint, peppermint, orange mint all make wonderful
teas, alone or along with chamomile or any of the lemon
herbs.
Herb teas can be made with fresh or dried herbs and can
be enjoyed either hot or cold.
For one cup of hot tea, use one teaspoon of dry herbs
or
up to 3 teaspoons of fresh herbs. Bruising the
leaves
of fresh herbs will help release the flavor. Pour boiling
water over the herbs in a glass or china pot. Metal pots
can sometimes leave a metallic taste. Let steep for 5
or
so minutes. Strain and enjoy with a little honey
to
sweeten.
Sun tea can be made simply by filling a jar with water,
throw in a handful of crushed fresh herbs, and set in
the
sun for 3 or 4 hours. Stir in a little honey to
sweeten,
pour over ice and enjoy.
Trying different combinations of herbs is fun. Remember
you can also add spices you have on hand, such as cinnamon,
cloves, etc.
There are many benefits to growing and making your own
herbal teas. Gardening itself is very relaxing
and
rewarding. With herbs from your garden you can
soothe
away your troubles with a cup of chamomile tea or make
yourself a refreshing cup of peppermint tea after a
hard day at work.
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