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Why Would You Want To Make Your Own Tea Blend?
The best reason I can think of as to why you should make your own tea blend is so that you can ensure the quality of your tea.
As you know, there are tons of commercially available teas and tea blends on the market today. But what we don’t often know, is the quality of the product.
These store-bought teas often have artificial flavorings and colorings and may have at some time been sprayed with some kind of chemical.
You can avoid this problem by making your own tea blend from your own homegrown herbs or from herbs collected from areas you know are chemically free.
It’s important to *note that technically speaking, caffeine free herbal teas aren’t actually teas at all but really what herbalist call “tisanes”. Only brews made from traditional tea leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant are true teas, however, we will use the loose term “tea” here to discuss our homemade brews.
Health Benefits of Herbal Tea
With a handful of herbs, many of which can be found in your kitchen cabinets, and a few basic techniques, you can brew up healing teas for everyday ailments and make your own tea blend in no time.
There are lots of ways to enjoy the goodness of plants, but for accessibility and simplicity, it’s hard to beat a good cup of tea. I especially enjoy it when the tea contains herbs I grew, foraged, or blended myself.
There are also so many health benefits to drinking tea that can’t be denied. Here are a few of the known benefits.
Traditional Benefits of Herbal Teas
1. Soothes Cold and Flu Symptoms
Herbal teas have been traditionally used to alleviate the discomfort of colds. When you’re dealing with a cold, staying hydrated is essential, and a warm cup of tea can provide soothing relief for a sore throat and help ease congestion.
2. Supports Digestive Health
Many herbal teas have been traditionally used to aid digestion, addressing issues like nausea, constipation, and indigestion. Some commonly used herbs for these purposes include ginger, peppermint, gentian root, fennel, angelica root, dandelion, senna, and marshmallow root.
3. Promotes Immune Health
Historically, herbal teas rich in antioxidants and vitamins have been valued for their potential to support the immune system. Elderberry, echinacea, ginger, and licorice root are among the herbs traditionally used for this purpose.
4. Eases Inflammation
Various teas and herbs, such as rose petals, rose hips, ginger, turmeric, and chamomile, have traditionally been used to soothe inflammation due to their beneficial compounds.
5. Traditional Anti-Aging Properties
The antioxidants in herbal teas have been traditionally thought to help slow the aging process by protecting against free radical damage, which can help maintain youthful skin and hair.
6. Provides Stress Relief
Herbal teas have long been used to promote relaxation and relieve stress. Drinking a calming tea like chamomile before bed can help with insomnia and may provide mild mood-lifting effects.
7. Supports Healthy Blood Pressure
While managing high blood pressure should be done under a doctor’s guidance, some herbal teas have been traditionally used as part of a holistic approach to support cardiovascular health, alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise.
8. Enhances Skin Health
Herbal teas with antioxidant properties, such as rooibos, chamomile, and spearmint, have been traditionally used for their potential benefits to skin health, whether consumed as a beverage or applied topically.
Is Drinking Tea Better for You Than Drinking Water?
The answer to this might surprise you since we’ve always been told that water is the healthiest thing you can drink, but the answer is tea.
According to a new study in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, drinking three or more cups of tea a day you might be doing your health more good than drinking plain water. Water is essentially replacing fluid. Tea replaces fluids and contains antioxidants, so you’re actually getting double the benefit. Now, if that’s not reason enough to make your own tea blend, I don’t know what is!
Make Your Own Tea Blend
So let’s get going to the fun part of where you get to make your own tea blend.
In the next section I will show you the three simple steps needed to make your own tea blend. Blending is not only easy, but it gives you the opportunity to experiment with flavors and create those you enjoy the most.
Three Step Method to Make Your Own Tea Blend for Health
The trick to blending tea is to choose complementary herbs that help you to make your own tea blend that supports your taste preference or even your dietary needs. This is often referred to as herbal synergy, meaning that each herb enhances the effects of the others. The blend becomes more than the sum of its parts.
If you’re new to blending herbs, the three-step method is a good guideline to get you started. This method is mainly used if you are looking to create a tea blend that addresses a particular problem or health condition you are experiencing.
If you are just looking for flavor, then you can be much looser in your blending efforts.
Step 1 -To find herbal synergy when you make your own tea blend, you should start with the herbal action you require (immune support, calming, digestive stimulant, etc.). Use your preferred herb as the “active ingredient” base. In other words, the main ingredients in medicinal blends are herbs that directly address a specific health concern. These primary herbs make up 70 to 80 percent of a blend.
Step 2– Next, add a “supportive herbal ingredient” that is often used to soothe and buffer the effects of the stronger primary herbs. Supportive herbs make up 20 to 30 percent of a blend.
Step 3 -The final ingredient is the “catalyst” which adds a pop of flavor or offers stronger potency to the active ingredient by providing a complimentary action. Catalyst herbs are included in small amounts, 5 to 10 percent of a blend, catalyst herbs have a warming or stimulating effect on the body and serve to “activate” the tea. Ginger, peppermint, and cinnamon are frequently used as catalysts.
The proportions are not set in stone, but rather fluid. Have fun and experiment. I like to start with 3 parts active ingredient, 1 to 2 parts supportive herbs, and 1/4 to 1 part catalyst. Adjustments can be made as needed.
I like to mix up enough to fill a small airtight Weck tulip jar and typically have a few varieties of tea blends on hand at any given time.
*Generally speaking, 1 tablespoon of tea blend per 6 ounces (0.23 kg) hot water is a good ratio, to begin with.
Common Herbs Used to Make Your Own Tea Blend
When you make—rather than simply take—your remedies, the very act is medicinal in itself.
Blending teas is one of the easiest, most satisfying ways to reconnect to the age-old practice of herbal medicine, a healing system that’s been relied on by every culture in the world. Here are some of the most common herbs that you can use to easily make your own tea blend.
If you don’t have access to local or homegrown herbs, I highly recommend purchasing them from Mountain Rose Herbs. They are my favorite place to buy high-quality, organic dried herbs and herbal products. As a company they believe in people, plants, and planet over profit and only ever source their herbs ethically and sustainably. It is through this ethical, responsible sourcing, that they are able to offer one of the largest selections of certified organic herbs, spices, and botanicals in North America.
- Rooibos -It comes from a plant native to South Africa, and the drink there is called red bush tea. It’s caffeine-free and is full of antioxidants. Some researchers believe, based on studies done on animals, that this herb may boost the immune system and help prevent cancer.
- Rose Buds — In addition to being an immune supporter rosebuds may help to improve digestion and blood flow and relieve menstrual cramping and stress.
Chamomile -This wonderful plant is often used to ease upset stomach, gas, diarrhea, insomnia, and anxiety. It’s important to note that if you are allergic to ragweed, then you should stay away from chamomile.
- Rose hip — This lovely plant contains vitamin C and may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant powers.
- Peppermint — A personal favorite. Some people like this herb for its ability to help with upset stomach, headache, irritable bowel syndrome, and breathing problems.
- Marshmallow root — A “cooling” root, many say that it helps to relieve the dry, scratchy throat that comes with a cold.
- Ginger — The root of this plant is well known for its potential to soothe nausea and an upset stomach, and should not be overlooked. You might also try it to enhance your appetite, provide comfort for arthritis, or support your wellness during a cold.
- Dandelion Root — Known for its traditional use in supporting kidney and liver function, dandelion root also adds a pleasant flavor to your teas.
Cinnamon — With its many powerful properties, including cinnamon in a tea can help to support healthy blood flow, contribute to gut health, and offer a soothing taste.
Lemon balm — This delicious herb is traditionally used to calm nerves and promote relaxation, potentially aiding sleep. It might also help with memory, although more research is needed. Be mindful of overuse as it can cause stomach upset for some.
Oat Straw — Rich in minerals such as iron, calcium, magnesium, and various vitamins, oat straw is highly nutritive and supports overall body nourishment. It’s especially beneficial for those feeling cold, depleted, or tired.
Hibiscus — Full of antioxidants, hibiscus is known for its vibrant color and tart flavor. Some small studies suggest it can support healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Valerian — Often used to promote relaxation and healthy sleep patterns, valerian is a popular choice for unwinding.
Echinacea (Coneflower) — Known for its immune-supporting properties, echinacea is often used as a traditional remedy during cold and flu season.
Sage — This herb has been used historically for its potential benefits in soothing stomach issues, sore throats, and supporting cognitive function.
Orange Peels — Packed with vitamin C, orange peels add a citrusy zest and nutritional boost to teas.
Turmeric — A powerful herb known for its active compound curcumin, turmeric is valued for its potential anti-inflammatory properties and overall wellness benefits.
Lavender — Beloved for its calming scent, lavender is thought to support relaxation, better sleep, and skin health.
Elderberry — Known for its immune-supporting qualities, elderberry also contains fiber and may aid in gut health and joint comfort.
Holy basil — Revered for its ability to help with stress, anxiety, and inflammation, holy basil makes a wonderful addition to a relaxing tea blend.
Easy Tea Blend Recipes
Make your own tea blend with these easy to follow recipes.
Winter Nourishment Herbal Tea Blend -
This tea is my go-to, vitamin- and mineral-rich tonic to nourish and support the body through the winter months.
Ingredients:
- 2 parts nettle leaf
- 2 parts peppermint or spearmint leaf
- 1 part lemon balm leaf
- 1 part milky oats
- 1 part red clover blossom
- 1 part burdock root
Instructions
Mix your herbs together. For each cup of hot water, add 1–2 tablespoons of your herbal mix. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes. Add honey if you like it sweet. You can have a few cups of this tea during the day.
If you want your tea to have even more good stuff from the herbs, let it sit for a few hours or overnight. Make a big batch, leave it to soak overnight, and then warm it up when you want to drink it the next day.
Calm Support Herbal Tea Blend -
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons dried lemon balm
- 2 tablespoons dried rose hips, cut & sifted
- 1 tablespoon dried oat straw
- 1 tablespoon dried chamomile
- 1/2 teaspoon dried lavender
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients together & mix thoroughly. Store in a sealed container in a cool place out of direct sunlight.
For a hot cup of tea:
- For a single serving hot cup of tea, place 1 tablespoon of the tea blend into a tea ball or bag. In a mug, add the filled tea ball or bag and fill with 1 cup (0.24 l) hot water. Cover & let steep for 8–10 minutes, then enjoy! (Sweeten if desired!)
For a cold infusion:
- In a 1 quart (0.95 l) jar, add 1/4 cup of the tea blend & fill the rest of the jar with water. Cover and let sit 8–10 hours, or overnight. Then strain out herbs.
- Enjoy as is, add ice for extra refreshment, & sweeten with honey or other sweetener of choice if desired. (Drink tea within ~3 days.)
Stress Relief Tea
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp dried holy basil
- 1/2 tsp dried lemon balm
- 1/2 tsp dried chamomile
- 1/4 tsp dried lavender
- 1 tsp dried stinging nettles
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a mason jar or cup
- Place a plate or top onto mason jar and let infuse for 20 minutes*
- Remove plate and filter tea through strainer or cheesecloth
- Add honey or sweetener if desired
- Sip and enjoy!
*Covering the tea ensures that the volatile oils (the essential plant compounds) do not escape and get infused in the water.
Note: You can premix these ingredients in larger amounts, if desired. Feel free to add other herbs or play around with amounts.
Tranquility Tea
Tranquil Tea. This one contains ingredients chosen to relax and calm you.
Ingredients:
- 2 tsp chamomile
- 1 tsp lemon balm
- 1/2 tsp lavender
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a mason jar or cup
- Place a plate or top onto mason jar and let infuse for 20 minutes*
- Remove plate and filter tea through strainer or cheesecloth
- Add honey or sweetener if desired
- Sip and enjoy!
Tummy Tamer
This recipe from Wellness Mama is said to be both calming and to soothe stomach aches and other digestive problems. For each serving, the ingredients are:
Ingredients:
- 2 tsp mint leaves
- 1/2 tsp fennel seeds
- Pinch of dried ginger (optional)
Instructions
- Pour 1 cup (0.24 l) of boiling water over the tea mixture, cover, and steep for 5 minutes before drinking.
Serenity Tea Blend
Ingredients:
- 3 tsp Chamomile
- 1 tsp Lavender
- 1/2 tsp Mint
Instructions
- Pour 1 cup (0.24 l) of boiling water over the tea mixture, cover, and steep for 5 minutes before drinking. (If using fresh herbs, triple the quantities.) Steep for 15 minutes. Strain as needed.
In Conclusion
Choosing to make your own tea blend is fun and satisfying. You can tailor it to your own tastes, and you’re guaranteed to get the highest quality tea available. You don’t need to spend a lot of money in order to do this. On the contrary, you may find that making your own tea blend will save you money over time because your tea will last longer and require less of it to be brewed. It’s never been easier to brew a high quality cup of tea at home.
Disclaimer:
The Outdoor Apothecary website is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. The information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it is the reader’s responsibility to ensure proper plant identification and usage.
Please be aware that some plants are poisonous or can have serious adverse health effects. We are not health professionals, medical doctors, or nutritionists. It is essential to consult with qualified professionals for verification of nutritional information, health benefits, and any potential risks associated with edible and medicinal plants mentioned on this website.
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Most tea blend recipes I find have something that I’m either allergic to or suspect I could be allergic too. But it is hard to know how to mix the ingredients I do like together.
Is there a chart that shows the different herbs, each with it’s use and complementary herbs and catalyst herbs that go with each one?