Making Aromatic Teas from Herbs Growing in the Garden

By Kathy Sadowski, LMT, RYT, Registered Aromatherapist

This article originally appeared in the NAHA Journal (Autumn, 2018) and  it is republished here according to the NAHA Writer Guidelines 2017-2018 statement.

In a few months, you can be making aromatic teas from the herbs growing in your garden!  February is the time to start planning what you want to grow in your herb garden this spring.

Aromatic, delicious, and healing: making tea from garden herbs is a delightful experience! It is both fresh and convenient; just walk out to the yard, trim and rinse some herbs, add hot water, and brew for a few minutes!

Step 1 to Making Aromatic Teas

GROWING THE PLANTS

There are many herbs that will grow easily, if given proper sun, water, and soil. Plants of the Lamiaceae family, like mint (Mentha spp.), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), and catnip (Nepeta cataria) can even overgrow to the point of becoming invasive to the other plants in your garden! Many herbs can be planted in pots to reduce spreading. This also makes them portable, thus they can be moved to a location with a better amount of sun or brought inside if the temperature dips too cool. When growing herbs for culinary and medicinal use, it is very important that they are not exposed to pesticides or pollutants that would render them unsafe to ingest!

Step 2 to Making Aromatic Teas

HARVESTING

Harvesting can begin when the plant has enough leaves to maintain growth. Most herbs are quite hardy, so they can be cut back up to 50% without harm.

• LEAVES should be harvested before the plants begins flowering (such as basil (Ocimum basilicum), thyme (Thymus vulgaris), and rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)) as once the plant flowers, the leaf chemistry changes, and the flavor lessons or becomes more bitter. Lengthen leaf harvest time by cutting back flowers as they start to appear.
• FLOWERS like lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile, Matricaria recutica) and rose (Rosa spp.) should be harvested while they are young and have just begun to bloom.
• STORAGE of freshly harvested bunches of herbs can last about a week in the refrigerator. Place stemmed bundles up to 4 -12 inches tall in a glass with about an inch or two of water and refrigerate.

Step 3 to Making Aromatic Teas

PRESERVING

Dried herbs can offer delicious flavor into the winter months, when the garden has become dormant.  Properly dried and stored in a sealed container in the cupboard, the herbs should last about a year. Herbs can be dried by air or in the oven.

Air Drying Herbs

• Harvest herbs by cutting stems to about 4- 12 inches in length.
• Gently rinse, and then pat the cuttings dry with a paper towel or cloth.
• Make small bundles, tied in a way to allow air flow around the herbs.
• Dry in a warm, dry, ventilated area. Dry hanging upside down or put the bunch in a brown paper lunch bag, stems facing outward. Bagging prevents dust and debris from collecting on the drying herbs.
• Once completely dried, remove leaves or flowers from stems, and place desired parts in a sealed container and store in cupboard, out of sunlight.

Oven Drying Leaves and Flowers

• Gently rinse, and pat dry any excess moisture from the harvested herbs.
• Place the herb cuttings in a single layer on glass (such as Pyrex© or Corningware©) dishes.
• Turn the oven to the very lowest setting (100 – 150 degrees Fahrenheit is best).
• Set the herbs in the oven, leaving the oven door slightly open to maintain a temperature under 150 Fahrenheit degrees.
• Heat for about three hours, depending on the herb. Turn the herbs and begin drying the other side after about an hour.
• Check progress often; do not overheat as flavor, aroma, and color will be lost. Once completely dried, but not overheated, take the herbs out of the oven and allow to cool.
• Put dried herbs in sealed containers, and store in cupboard, out of sunlight.

There are a few things to consider when making aromatic teas from herbs.

There are a few things to keep in mind before preparing home grown herbal teas. Firstly, respect that herbs have medicinal qualities which can be very helpful, but just like essential oils, should not be taken in excess. As a general rule, a safe adult amount is up to three cups of infused tea per day (each cup made with 1 tsp. of dried herbs or 2 tsp. of fresh herbs).

Like essential oils, herbs also have contraindications and safe amount guidelines to investigate before using. Possible contraindications for the herbs listed in this paper came from Catherine Ulbricht’s Natural Standard Herb & Supplement Guide.[1]  Unlike essential oils, that can be specifically analyzed for precise chemical make-up, herb growing at home yields a less definitive product. When harvesting herbs, assess appearance, aroma, and flavor before preparing teas.

Steeping Time When Making Aromatic Teas

• Heavier plant parts like roots, seeds, and coarse bark such as cinnamon sticks, star anise, and black pepper, are generally added to boiled water and simmered for 10-20 minutes.
• Lighter plant parts such as leaves should be infused in water that is slightly less hot than boiling for 6-9 minutes.
• Very delicate plant parts such as blossoms and flower petals should be steeped in hot water that would not burn the finger for 3-5 minutes.

Helpful Hints When Making Aromatic Teas

• Use spring or distilled water.
• Recipes should include about 1 tsp. of dried herbs or 2 tsp. of fresh herbs per eight ounces of water.
• Do not use aluminum or iron pots to brew herbs.
• Strain loose herbs immediately after diffusing.
• Avoid over-steeping, which can bring out a bitter flavor.
• For a stronger flavor, use more herbs instead of steeping longer.
• OR – crush or mince fresh herbs before infusing to bring out a stronger flavor.
• For iced tea – allow strained brew to cool before pouring over ice.

Herbs To Grow in Your Garden that are Great for Aromatic Teas

Sage (Salvia officinalis)

• GROWTH – Many species varieties are available. Grow in full sun, with rich and properly drained soil. Sage can be grown indoors.
• FLAVOR – Grassy and herbal, it only takes two fresh leaves to brew a delicious tea. Place the leaves in boiled water, infuse for fifteen minutes, remove leaves, and drink.
• BENEFITS – Sage may help to improve cognition, reduce throat inflammation, lesson menopausal symptoms, and may help with blood sugar and cholesterol levels.[2]
• CONTRAINDICATIONS – Avoid in pregnancy, avoid use with babies and children under three years of age, avoid use with certain medications.

Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) and Spearmint (Mentha spicata)

• GROWTH –Multiple varieties of mint are available. Grow in full to partial sun, preferably in pots because this plant can easily become invasive. Prune flower tops to maintain ideal flavored leaves. Mints can also be grown indoors in full sun.
• FLAVOR – Minty and cooling, slightly sweet.
• BENEFITS – Mint helps to improve cognition and may reduce indigestion and congestion.[3]
• CONTRAINDICATIONS – Avoid in pregnancy, avoid use with babies and children under three years of age, avoid use with certain medications.

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

• GROWTH – This plant prefers full to partial sun, and moist but well drained soil. The seeds can cause the plant to spread rapidly, so keep it pruned. Lemon balm, also called Melissa, can be grown indoors in full sun.
• FLAVOR – Fresh leaves are much more flavorful than dried leaves. They have a lemony and minty taste.
• BENEFITS – Lemon balm helps to improve mood and memory, and it may help fight off insomnia, soothe indigestion, and help to soothe mouth cold sores.[4]
• CONTRAINDICATIONS – None known. Due to insufficient research, I recommend avoiding use during pregnancy, during lactation, and use with very small children.

Oregano (Origanum vulgare) and Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

• GROWTH – Many varieties exist; plant in full sun, with well drained but sufficiently watered soil. These plants can be grown indoors in full sun.
• FLAVOR – Strongly herbaceous.
• BENEFITS – Both thyme and oregano are antimicrobial, helping to fight bacterial and viral infections, and may also help to reduce congestion.[5]
• CONTRAINDICATIONS – Avoid use during pregnancy, avoid use with babies and children under three years of age, avoid use with certain medications and with certain health conditions.

Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

• There are many varieties of basil with differing flavor profiles. Grow this herb in full sun with sufficiently watered and rich soil. It can also be grown indoors. Keep flowering tops pinched off for ideal leaf flavor.
• FLAVOR: Clean and fresh; the fresh leaves are much better for making a tea than the dried herb. Use just three or four fresh leaves to make a cup of tea.
• BENEFITS – Basil is a strong antioxidant that may help to reduce inflammation, help some of the symptoms of fibromyalgia, and may help to reduce blood pressure, indigestion, and regulate blood sugar levels; it may also be good for improving cognition and reducing anxiety.[6]
• CONTRAINDICATIONS – Some types of basil are high in estragole, which may have a mutagenic effect; avoid use during pregnancy, avoid use during lactation, and avoid use with babies and children under three years of age. Do not use for extended periods of time. Use may interfere with certain medications. Use may increase blood thinning, thus avoid using with bleeding disorders.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

• GROWTH – This perennial evergreen will live through the winter in warmer zones; or it can be kept in pots indoors during the winter in cooler zones. It prefers full sun, with rich and properly drained soil; do not overwater.
• FLAVOR – Rosemary has a strong, invigorating, piney, camphoraceous, and herbaceous taste and aroma.
• BENEFITS – Rosemary is stimulating, may improve respiratory issues, and may improve concentration.[7]
• CONTRAINDICATIONS – Avoid use during pregnancy, avoid use during lactation, and avoid use with babies and children under three years of age. Avoid using with severe asthma, bleeding disorders, and it may interfere with certain medications; avoid excessive use.

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

• GROWTH – Many varieties of this beloved plant exist. Grow in full sun, with well-drained soil, and do not over-crowd the plants. Harvest once flowers begin to open by cutting stems and flowering tops.
• FLAVOR – Relaxing, floral, and herbaceous.
• BENEFITS – Lavender is known to help to calm the nerves, reduce headaches, and improve sleep.[8]
• CONTRAINDICATIONS – Lavender may increase drowsiness and interfere with certain medications, including: blood thinners, cholesterol lowering medications, and sedatives. A safe amount to ingest for children and during pregnancy and lactation has not been determined.

German Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)

• GROWTH – Grow in soil that drains well and in full sun.
• FLAVOR – Chamomile has a fruity flavor, and only two fresh blossoms or 1 tsp. of dried herb is needed to make tea.
• BENEFITS – Chamomile helps to calm the mind and reduce insomnia.[9]
• CONTRAINDICATIONS – There is insufficient evidence to recommend safe use during pregnancy and lactation.

RECIPES – Making Aromatic Teas

You can make aromatic teas from a single herb.  But blending creates a symphonic flavor and aroma melody.  Here are a few recipes.

Calming Herbal Tea  

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp. of dried lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
• 2 tsp. of dried German chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
• 1/2 tsp. of dried lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)
• 1/4 tsp. of crushed cardamom seeds (Elettaria cardamomum)
• About 3 cups of hot water
• Honey to taste

Instructions for Use: Add the lavender, lemon balm and German chamomile to a suitable container. Pour about three cups of hot water over the mix of dried herbs. If using fresh herbs, double the recipe quantity. Make sure that the herbs have been organically grown and are not grown with pesticides or pollutants. Gently rinse the herbs before use. Steep the cardamom seeds for about six minutes in a separate cup. Then add the rest of the herbs to the cup and steep for an additional six minutes. Strain the herbs with a tea strainer or something similar.  Add honey to taste.

Cautions for Use: Avoid drinking during pregnancy, during lactation, and with babies and children under three years of age. May be contraindicated with use of certain medications. Adults should not exceed drinking three cups a day. Discontinue use with any negative reactions.

Sage and Ginger Anti-inflammatory Tea  

Ingredients:

• 4 oz. of fresh sage leaves (Salvia officinalis), organically grown with no pesticides or pollutants, gently rinsed clean
• 1 Tbsp of fresh ginger root (Zingiber officinale), rinsed and minced
• 2 oz. of honey
• 1 lemon, cut in quarters
• 8 cups of water

Instructions for Use: Bring water to a boil in a small pan. Turn off heat. Add the sage, ginger, honey, and lemons to the pan, and cover with a lid. Let set for 20-30 minutes. Strain and drink.

Cautions for Use: Avoid drinking during pregnancy, during lactation, and avoid use with babies and children under three years of age. May be contraindicated with use of certain medications. Adults should not exceed drinking three cups a day. Discontinue use with any negative reactions.

Three Herbs to Help You Think Tea

Ingredients:

• 3 fresh basil leaves (Ocimum basilicum)
• 6 fresh mint leaves (Mentha x piperita or Mentha spicata)
• 8 fresh rosemary leaves (Rosmarinus officinalis)
• 1-2 cups of boiled water

Instructions for Use: Make sure that the herbs have been organically grown, with no pesticides or pollutants, and that they have been gently rinsed. Bring water to a boil in a pan on the stovetop. Remove pan from heat. Add the herb leaves and cover with a lid. Steep for seven minutes; strain and drink.

Cautions for Use: Avoid drinking during pregnancy, during lactation, and avoid use with babies and children under three years of age. May be contraindicated for use with certain medical conditions and medications. Adults should not exceed drinking three cups a day. Discontinue use with any negative reactions.

Indigestion Tea

Ingredients:

• 6 fresh mint leaves (Mentha x piperita or Mentha spicata)
• 1 tsp of ginger (Zingiber officinale), rinsed and minced
• 1/2 tsp of cardamom seeds (Elettaria cardamomum), crushed
• 2-3 cups of boiled water
• 1 tsp. honey – optional

Instructions for Use: Make sure that the mint has been organically grown, with no pesticides or pollutants, and has been gently rinsed.  Bring water to a boil in a pot on the stovetop and then remove from heat. Add ginger and cardamom to the pot and cover for ten minutes. Then, add the mint leaves and cover for six more minutes.  Strain and drink. Add honey to taste if desired.

Cautions for Use: Avoid drinking during pregnancy, during lactation, and avoid use with babies and children under three years of age. May be contraindicated with certain medical conditions and medications. Adults should not exceed drinking three cups a day. Discontinue use with any negative reactions.

Congestion Tea

Ingredients:

• 1/2 tsp. of dried thyme (Thymus vulgaris) or dried oregano (Origanum vulgare) or 2 tsp. of the fresh herb
• 1 tsp. of dried peppermint (Mentha x piperita) or 2 tsp. of the fresh herb
• 1/2 tsp. of honey
• 3 cups of boiled water

Instructions for Use: If using fresh herbs, make sure that they have been organically grown, with no pesticides or pollutants, and have been gently rinsed. Boil water in a pan on the stovetop. Take off the heat. Pour over herbs and let infuse for seven minutes. Strain the herbs, stir in honey, and drink while warm.

Cautions for Use: Avoid drinking during pregnancy, during lactation, and avoid use with babies and children under three years of age. May be contraindicated for use with certain medical conditions and medications. Adults should not exceed drinking three cups a day. Discontinue use with any negative reactions.

REFERENCES – Making Aromatic Teas

1. Ulbricht, C. E. (2010). Natural standard herb & supplement guide: an evidence-based reference. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby, and accessed from: https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/
2. Sage: Salvia officinalis Research, accessed from: https://www.earthtokathy.com/sage-salvia-officinalis-research/
3. Peppermint: Mentha x piperita Research, and Spearmint: Mentha spicata, accessed from: https://www.earthtokathy.com/peppermint-research/ and https://www.earthtokathy.com/spearmint-mentha-spicata-research/
4. Lemon Balm: Melissa officinalis Research, accessed from: https://www.earthtokathy.com/melissa-lemon-balm-melissa-officinalis-research/
5. Origanum vulgare Research, and Thyme: Thymus vulgaris, accessed from: https://www.earthtokathy.com/oregano-origanum-vulgare-research/ and https://www.earthtokathy.com/thyme-thymus-vulgaris-research/
6. Basil: Ocimum basilicum Research, accessed from: https://www.earthtokathy.com/basil-ocimum-basillicum-research/
7. Rosemary: Rosmarinus officinalis Research, accessed from: https://www.earthtokathy.com/rosemary-rosmarinus-officinalis-research/
8. Lavender: Lavandula angustifolia Research, accessed from: https://www.earthtokathy.com/lavender-lavandula-angustifolium-research/
9. German Chamomile: Matricaria recutita Research, accessed from: https://www.earthtokathy.com/chamomile-german-matricaria-recutita-research/

4/11/18

The listings of research represent a compilation of scientific articles found on the species, with a very brief overview description of each article/study.  Research found is catalogued by therapeutic action.  This categorized compilation of research articles does not necessarily imply that there are adequate results to demonstrate safe and/or effective human use. These statements are not meant to diagnose, treat, or cure any diseases. The information at this page has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Consult a Doctor before using herbs and essential oils if you have medical conditions, are taking medications, or have questions.