It’s January and so it must be time for an immune boost. This recipe dates back to colonial times, and is part of Sarah Munro’s collection of herbal remedies (Sarah, a PhD historian, is the heroine in book 2 of the Deadly Force series, ONE DARK WISH.) For centuries, Echinacea has been known to boost the immune system and help with inflammation which, in turn, prevents winter illnesses, like the common cold.
When mixed with lemongrass and mint, this tea also helps clear the sinuses, preventing sinus infections. Starting in January, I drink this tea a few times a week. But when I feel a cold coming on, I may drink a cup of day. If you use some honey to the tea for sweetness, you’ll also be adding in a natural humectant that can help suppress coughs. If you don’t grow and dry your own herbs, you can purchase the dried leaves online or in any health food store. Even if you’re not sick, this is just a great winter tea that’s the perfect blend of flavor and sweetness.
Sarah Munro’s Echinacea Tea
Directions:
In a small teapot, mix together all the dried leaves. Pour 8 ounces of boiling water over the tea leaves and allow to steep for about 12 minutes, more if you like a stronger tea. Using a strainer, pour the tea into a mug. Add a dash of honey for some sweetness.
You can make a larger batch of this tea and store in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. But I would strain it before pouring it into the jar. This tea will keep in refrigerator for two weeks. If you add the honey, remember to do it while the water is hot. Also, you could mix up a larger batch of the dried leaves and store them in an airtight container. Use a 1/4 cup of dried leaves for every 8 ounces of boiling water.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER ABOUT WILD PLANTS, FORAGING, AND MAKING HERBAL REMEDIES:
I am not a medical professional and nothing written on this blog is medical advice. None of my statements have been evaluated by the FDA (I am legally required to give you this disclaimer).
It is important to do your due diligence before foraging, harvesting, and/or consuming any type of medicinal plant.
- If you are taking any medications, talk to your doctor about any potential drug interactions.
- If you are allergic to anything, make sure whatever you are foraging is not in the same family. Example: While dandelions are typically considered safe, those who are allergic to ragweed, latex, daisies, or any other plants in the same or similar families, may not be able to consume dandelion.
Always research potential side effects, dosage recommendations, and how to properly prepare and consume each medicinal plant.
Always make sure you are foraging what you believe to be. Fully prepare and study the anatomy before harvesting wild plants.
Always make sure your kitchen/work area is clean and that all materials are sterilized.
Do not forage plants from areas that have been sprayed within the past 2 years at the very least.
I am not legally or morally responsible for the health of any of my readers. Please do your own research!
