Homemade Herbal Tea

You’re able to grow an incredible number of herbs and flowers in your indoor, hydroponic garden.  One of the easiest, most relaxing, delightful and healthy things to do is to make yourself herbal tea.

Here are some of the herbs you may be growing already, and the benefits of using them as part of your herbal tea:

• Chamomile - Chamomile makes a delicious, apple-like scented tea known often used to induce sleep, lower anxiety and help with an upset stomach.
• Lemon Balm – Known as the ‘calming herb,’ it has been used for centuries to reduce anxiety and promote sleep. Also known to help cure indigestion and improve inflammatory skin conditions.
• Thyme – Like Lemon Balm, Thyme is part of the mint family and contains compounds that may help decrease inflammation and improve inflammatory skin conditions like acne.
• Mint – A traditional Moroccan tea. Peppermint tea is loaded with menthol, which is wonderful for easing cold symptoms. It may also help to relieve an upset stomach.
• Basil – refreshing and delicious, basil is known as a digestive aid. Perfect after a large meal.
• Cilantro – A 2012 study found that cilantro may lower blood glucose levels and cholesterol levels.
• Rosemary – May help lower blood sugar levels.
• Oregano – Used traditionally to treat muscle aches and common colds.
• Marjoram - Used by woman to regulate hormone levels associated with irregular menstrual cycles and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).  Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding woman due to its impact on hormones.
• Parsley – Likely acts as a natural diuretic, which can increase urination and prevent the formation of kidney stones.
• Dandelion - Can be made of flowers, leaves and even roots.  Dandelion is a natural diuretic that may prevent the formation of kidney stones and fight inflammation.
• Daisy - High in vitamin C and often used to relieve common coughs and colds.
• Stevia – A great addition to your tea and coffee, as it provides a natural, low calorie, sugar-free sweetener.

Each of these herbs also contain immune-boosting vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.  So why not relax with some homemade, fresh, pesticide and herbicide free tea?  Mix and match your favorite flavors to make something unique and fun for yourself.

Ready in: 5-10 minutes

It couldn’t be easier!  5-6 leaves will make a cup of tea.  Fresh leaves are wonderful, as you can crush them up gently with your hands or a pestle to release their fragrances, throw them in a cup with hot water, and let them steep for 5-10 minutes.  The color of your water will deepen as it absorbs the delicate aromas of your herbs.

If using dried leaves, make sure they are crushed and then add about 2 tablespoons per cup.  You can dry your leaves naturally, in the oven, with a dehydrator, or even in the microwave.

You can drink your tea as is or remove the herbs with a fork, filter or strainer.

Add lemon, ginger or honey if you’d like.  Now enjoy!

Let’s Grow Together!