During a growing season, one can collect and dry plants for use all year long. Even now, in April, thinking about what plants will soon be coming up in my region (Northeastern US) is a restorative activity. Imagining these plants in my mind’s eye and with all my senses, engages my parasympathetic nervous system, providing a reset or reprieve to any current newscasts or worries.
The following is a gentle, nourishing tea for courage and resilience. This blend combines food-like, adaptogenic, and tonic herbs. The oatstraw is a tonic for the nervous system as is tulsi which is also protective and restorative to all tissues. Rose, Hawthorn, and Linden are all full of heart lovin’ goodness. Sometimes I add in rosehips as well, just for good cheer. This blend can steep for 5 minutes and up to 5 hours.
Ingredients
One part each:
- Oatstraw (Avena sativa)
- Rose Petals (Rosa spp)
- Hawthorn leaf, flower, berry (Crataegus spp)
- Linden Blossom (Tilia spp)
- Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum)
Equipment
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 spoon
- a resealable container large enough to hold the finished product
- a label
Procedure
- Pour the herbs into the mixing bowl and gently stir them with a spoon. Try not to break up the plant parts since this will release the essential oils.
- Pour the mix into a resealable container.
- Label the container with the name of the mix, ingredients and date mixed.
Storage and Use
Keep your tea blend in a sealed jar in a cool, dry place, like your pantry. Make your tea a cup at a time using 1-2 teaspoons (5-10 ml) of tea for every 8 to 10 ounces (237-295 ml) of water. You can steep it as little as 5 minutes or as long as 5 hours. Store unused tea in the refrigerator up to 3 days.
