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Introduction to Mint and Lemon Balm Iced Tea
This time of year, my medicinal tea garden is overflowing with herbs, particularly mint and lemon balm. I enjoy blending homegrown herbal teas, savoring both their unique flavors and the many health benefits they offer. Throughout the year, I maintain a ritual of sipping on hot tea in the mornings, but when the hot New England summer days roll around, iced teas become my go-to refreshment.
One of my favorite blends is mint and lemon balm iced tea. The combination is not only incredibly refreshing, but also boasts a taste that’s simply amazing. There’s something profoundly satisfying about being able to grow or forage the ingredients for my herbal teas, knowing exactly where they come from and how they’re nurtured. Mint and lemon balm iced tea has become a staple in my summer routine, and I’m excited to share its wonders with you.
Health Benefits of Mint and Lemon Balm
Mint and lemon balm are more than just delicious herbs; they are packed with health benefits that make them a great addition to your diet. Mint is well-known for its digestive benefits. It is known to help soothe an upset stomach, reduce bloating, and even freshen your breath. The menthol in mint leaves also has a cooling effect that can help relieve headaches and congestion.
Lemon balm, on the other hand, is renowned for its calming properties. It is believed to help reduce anxiety, promote better sleep, and improve mood. It’s also been used traditionally to help with digestion and relieve pain. When combined, mint and lemon balm create a powerful duo that supports both your physical and mental well-being.
Including these herbs in your iced tea not only enhances the flavor but also provides a refreshing way to enjoy their numerous health benefits. Knowing that you are sipping on something that is not only tasty but also good for you makes mint and lemon balm iced tea an even more delightful experience.
Ingredients Needed for Mint and Lemon Balm Iced Tea
Creating a refreshing mint and lemon balm iced tea is simple and requires only a few ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Fresh Mint Leaves: About 1 cup, loosely packed. You can also use dried mint if fresh is not available.
- Fresh Lemon Balm Leaves: About 1/2 cup, loosely packed. Dried lemon balm can be a substitute.
- Water: 8 cups of filtered water.
- Honey or Other Sweetener: To taste. You can use sugar, agave syrup, or stevia as alternatives.
- Lemon Juice: Optional, for an extra citrusy kick.
- Ice Cubes: To chill the tea.
Why Use Fresh or Dried Herbs?
Using fresh herbs from your garden gives the tea a vibrant flavor and aroma. However, dried herbs are a great alternative if fresh ones are not available. Both fresh and dried herbs have their own unique benefits. Fresh herbs are packed with essential oils that give a stronger, more immediate flavor, while dried herbs are more concentrated and have a longer shelf life.
Where to Purchase Herbs
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.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Mint and Lemon Balm Iced Tea
Preparing mint and lemon balm iced tea is an easy process, especially when you brew it in the sun. This method not only allows the herbs to infuse their flavors into the water naturally, but also helps me feel more connected to my food sources and the earth that provides such abundance. It’s part of the joy I find in living simply and seasonally.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves, loosely packed (or 1/4 cup dried)
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon balm leaves, loosely packed (or 1/8 cup dried)
- 8 cups filtered water (I use a 2 quart pitcher)
- Honey or other sweetener, to taste (optional)
- Lemon juice or lemon slices (optional)
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Prepare the Herbs: Rinse the fresh mint and lemon balm leaves thoroughly. If using dried herbs, measure them out and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: Place the mint and lemon balm leaves in a large glass jar or pitcher.
- Add Water: Pour 8 cups of filtered water over the herbs.
- Brew in the Sun: Cover the jar or pitcher and place it in direct sunlight for 3-5 hours. This slow brewing process allows the herbs to release their full flavors into the water. It’s a mindful practice that brings me closer to nature and the simplicity of seasonal living.
- Sweeten and Add Lemon (Optional): Once the tea has finished brewing, strain out the herbs. Add honey or your preferred sweetener to taste, and a splash of lemon juice if desired.
- Chill: Transfer the tea to the refrigerator to chill for at least an hour.
- Serve: Pour the tea over ice cubes in a glass and enjoy!
Tips for Brewing and Storing
- Sunlight: Make sure to place the jar in a spot that gets plenty of sunlight for optimal brewing.
- Straining: Use a fine mesh strainer to remove all herb particles for a smooth tea.
- Storage: Store any leftover tea in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This sun-brewing method is a lovely way to enjoy the simple pleasures of life, creating a delicious mint and lemon balm iced tea that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Serving Suggestions and Creative Additions
Mint and lemon balm iced tea is not only refreshing on its own but also versatile enough to be enhanced with various creative additions. Here are some serving suggestions and ideas to elevate your iced tea experience:
Presentation Ideas
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprig of fresh mint or lemon balm to each glass for a beautiful and aromatic touch.
- Citrus Slices: Decorate your glass with a slice of lemon or lime on the rim, or add a few slices directly into the tea for a burst of citrus flavor.
- Colorful Ice Cubes: Freeze berries or mint leaves in ice cubes for a visually appealing and flavorful addition to your tea.
Flavor Enhancements
- Fruit Infusions: Add slices of fruits like oranges, strawberries, or peaches to the tea for a natural sweetness and additional layers of flavor.
- Herbal Blends: Mix in other herbs like basil or rosemary for a unique twist on the classic mint and lemon balm combination.
- Sparkling Water: For a fizzy variant, top off your glass with a splash of sparkling water or club soda.
Conclusion
Mint and lemon balm iced tea is a delightful and refreshing beverage that perfectly complements hot summer days. With the abundance of mint and lemon balm in my medicinal tea garden, I love creating this simple yet flavorful drink. The process of sun-brewing not only infuses the tea with the rich flavors of these herbs but also connects me to the natural sources of my food, bringing a sense of mindfulness and joy to my seasonal living.
By understanding the health benefits of mint and lemon balm, gathering the right ingredients, and following a mindful preparation process, you can create a delicious and healthful iced tea. Serving it with creative additions and pairing it with light snacks or grilled foods further enhances the experience, making mint and lemon balm iced tea a staple in any summer routine.
Enjoy the simple pleasures of life with a glass of homemade mint and lemon balm iced tea, and let its refreshing taste and health benefits uplift your summer days.
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.
