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.

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.