As the world becomes increasingly fast-paced, it’s important to slow down and appreciate the little things in life. What better way to do so than with a warm cup of tea? And did you know you don’t have to travel far to find the perfect blend?
With just a few steps, one can find a variety of plants and herbs that can be brewed into delicious and healthy teas. From the tangy taste of lemon verbena to the soothing properties of chamomile, nature has provided us with an abundance of options to choose from. So sit back, relax, and let’s take a sip of nature’s finest.
Benefits
For good reason, tea has been a popular beverage for centuries. It not only tastes good, but it also has a lot of health benefits. Tea contains antioxidants, which can boost the immune system and reduce inflammation in the body. Because most teas are made with water, it’s also an excellent means to stay hydrated. Depending on the type of tea, it can also be a natural source of caffeine, providing a gentle energy boost without the jitters and crashes associated with coffee.
The benefits of tea can also extend beyond physical health. Tea can also help to alleviate stress and anxiety by nurturing a sense of calm and relaxation. It’s a great way to unwind at the end of a long day or to take a breather in the midst of a hectic schedule. Not to mention the social aspect that comes with sharing a cup of tea with friends or family can be a wonderful way to bond and create precious memories.
Guidelines
Surprisingly, not a lot of people know about the local herbs growing in their backyard that can be used to make tea nor how to harvest or prepare them properly. Depending on the type of plant being used, the process varies from one plant to another but there are general guidelines to follow.
Tea lovers recommend harvesting young fresh herbs and/or leaves in the morning since this is the time when the essential oils in the plant are at their strongest. After harvesting the preferred amount, place the herbs in clean paper towels to dry indoors or outdoors, depending on the weather, and away from direct sunlight. Once dry, brew a desired amount of herbs in a tea infuser to enjoy a refreshing beverage or store them in an airtight container for future use.
Brewing a special blend of tea from backyard plants is not only a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s also a great way to connect with nature residing in the small pockets of suburban life. Depending on the occasion, these backyard teas will delight your taste buds while also providing an extensive range of health benefits.
Options
In this article, let’s step outside and explore five teas people can brew right in their backyard:
Mint
Mint is a versatile hardy plant that grows well in most climates, especially here in the Philippines. With unique varieties to choose from, peppermint and spearmint are often the most commonly used types when brewing teas. Mint tea is ideal for hot summer days since it serves as a refreshing and cooling beverage. Tea drinkers often drink this natural digestive aid to help calm upset stomachs and alleviate nausea spells.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass is a member of the Cymbopogon grass family and has a mild citrusy flavor with a hint of ginger that is perfect for sipping on a warm summer day. Not only is it often used in aromatherapy for its calming properties, but it also makes a delicious tea. Lemongrass tea can help to improve mood and reduce stress, making it a great choice for those busy, hectic days.
Rose Hip Tea
Made with the pseudo-fruits of the rose plant, rose hip tea is a tea often associated with the image of elegance. The tea offers a delicate flavor with a sweet floral aftertaste, usually paired best with a drizzle of honey or lemon. Rose hip tea is good for boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation in the body. Not only is it good for promoting healthy skin, but it can also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
Butterfly Pea is another backyard favorite, known for vibrant blue flowers and antioxidant properties. Apart from its decorative purposes, this tea naturally helps support hair growth and health. When adding a small amount of other citrusy flavors, such as lemon and lime, the tea goes through a magical color transition from brilliant blue to a deep purple hue, perfect for entertaining guests.
Hibiscus Tea
Hibiscus, popularly known in the Philippines as the Gumamela, is a familiar sight in Filipino gardens and parks due to its flowers’ striking beauty. Apart from its crisp tart cranberry flavor and versatility to be served either hot or cold, Hibiscus tea may aid in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels, according to National Institutes of Health databases. When properly steeped, this tea sports lovely shades of vermillion or plum and is enjoyed best on a cool afternoon.