There are a multitude of healing herbs and plants available to grow in your garden or window boxes all with a variety of properties.
Here are some examples of healing flowers and plants and some suggestions about using them in herbal teas.
Nettles
Probably the best know medicine found in the garden is the doc leave which is used to heal the stinging side effects of touching a nettle. Doc leaves are easy to come by as they grow right next to the nettles. Nature’s way of providing an instant cure!
Nettles can also be used in a tea and are said to have diuretic properties. They can bring relief to conditions such as arthritis and help urinary tract infections.
For making a nettle tea, take one part nettle leaves to two parts of water . Bring the mixture to the boil in a pot and simmer for a couple of minutes. Strain and drink.
Chamomile
These are pretty daisy like flowers. They have calming properties and can help sooth a sore tummy.
Use 3-4 tablespoons of flowers for your tea, cover in boiling water and brew for 5 minutes.
Peppermint
Peppermint is said to aid digestion. It’s often used as a tea after meals as a soothing way to prevent indigestion. The cooling effects of peppermint can also ease tension headaches.
Bash 1-2 tablespoons of peppermint to release the flavour and cover in boiling water. Allow to brew for a few minutes and strain the leaves.
Echinacea
Echinacea contains antioxidants and is well known for giving a healthy boost to the immune system.
Add the flowers with the desired amount of boiling water to a pot and simmer for 15 minutes. Strain and serve.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is another calming herb that is useful for reducing stress and anxiety. It’s also good for inducing sleep.
Make up the tea by steeping a tablespoon of leaves for 5-10 minutes then strain. This tea can also be added to your bath as lemon balm helps sooth irritated skin.
Thyme
Thyme helps to alleviate sore throats and coughs.
Add the thyme stalks to a mug and fill with boiling water.
Leave to steep for about 15 minutes.
Lavender
Lavender is well known for inducing relaxation and restful sleep.
Add a few sprigs of lavender to a cup of boiling water and allow to brew for about 15 minutes.
Sage
Sage is thought to be good for detoxing the body. It contains antioxidants which mop up the harmful free radicals in our bodies created by various toxins.
Add the sage to some boiling water and leave to soak for approximately 5 minutes. Remove the leaves and drink.
Personal preference of how strong or weak you like your tea is obviously a key factor when creating your own. Trial and error is the only way to get your own perfect tea. If you prefer a sweeter tea you might want to add some lemon or honey.
There are various contraptions available to help strain your tea, including teapots with inbuilt tea strainers and specially designed strainers to immerse in your water
