Lemon Verbena and Mint Tea

I had first heard of lemon verbena while watching Little House on the Prairie with my kids.  Laura Ingalls loves how her teacher smells like lemon verbena.  I can certainly understand why it is used as a perfume, Lemon Verbena has a lovely floral and fresh scent.

 When the girls and I were buying plants in the spring, they discovered it at the green house so we decided to give it a try.  Aside from just eating it off the plant, we have been using it in tea.  Lemon verbena is an immune booster as well as a digestive aid.
This is one of ways we enjoy this wonderful herb.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup lemon verbena leaves
• 1/4 cup mint leaves
• 1 cup filtered water

Directions

1. Bring water almost to a boil
2. Add lemon verbena and mint leaves to the water.
3. Let steep for 3-5 minutes, strain and enjoy.

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Immune Support and Immune Boosting Tea (Homemade with Natural Ingredients)

So the common cold has hit some of us here.  My oldest must have an immune system of a rock as she is not phased but my youngest and husband have struggled for about week.  I have been using some of my more natural cold remedies but in addition, I have also altered a tea recipe I received from my Naturopathic doctor.  It was also suggested that this recipe could be made into popsicles but I have yet to try this method.
All of these spices have a warming effect on the body but each also contains additional immune support for the body.

Cinnamon-Antimicrobial

Cloves-Antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and antihistamine

Ginger-Antiseptic, anti-nausea

Nutmeg-Detoxifies, increases circulation

Star Anise-Increase appetite and help digestion

Ingredients

• 6 cups water
• 1/2 teaspoon whole cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 teaspoon fresh grated nutmeg
• 2 whole star anise
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger

Directions

1. Add all ingredients into a medium size pot.  Bring to a boil and let simmer for 1-2 hours depending on desired taste.
2. Enjoy the smell as it simmers and enjoy the tea when ready!  If you prefer a sweeter tea I am sure a bit of honey would go well with it.

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