We use this tea to welcome our guests upon their arrival at Aro Ha. It is made predominantly with herbs from our garden, inspired by the idea that by consuming ingredients from the surrounding environment a connection between person and place is established.
Rosemary, sage and thyme are herbs that grow abundantly all year round so are perfect to consistently use. We harvest ours from the garden beds just outside the kitchen and brew them with love and intention. This tea is packed with nutrients to warm the body and soul. It can help you to create a ritual of arriving in the moment that is, of being here now.
Herbs as Medicine
Rosemary has a long history of culinary, aromatic and medicinal uses as tonics and stimulants. Some of its properties include antioxidants, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory compounds and helps control blood sugar levels.
Sage is commonly used as a culinary herb but also has a long history of use in alternative and traditional medicine. It has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, promotes healthy skin, oral health and can also improve blood sugar levels.
Thyme is another plant with a rich history of medicinal use to treat common infections, coughs, bronchitis and asthma.
Cinnamon has been used since ancient times and was considered a precious commodity in many cultures. It is said to have been used to flavour beverages in ancient Egypt and can be found written in Chinese medical scriptures as early as 2700BC. Cinnamon’s main actions are antibacterial and antifungal, it fights respiratory tract pathogens, aids the relief of trapped wind and enhances insulin sensitivity.
Liquorice is another plant with references dating back to 2500BC, both in food and in medicine. Besides an anti-inflammatory and mucoprotective effect, liquorice's most fascinating attribute is the way it works to assist the adrenals in preventing cortisol breakdown. This process helps us to maintain our energy levels and thus results in ‘better’ responses to stressful situations.
If the herbs in this recipe are not regular growers in your garden see it as an opportunity to get creative and try different combinations.
Travellers Tea
Prep Time: 2 min | Cook Time: 10 min | Servings: 1.25L
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup rosemary
- 1/4 cup sage1 tbsp lemon thyme (normal thyme works too)
- 1/2 cinnamon bark
- 1 tbsp cup liquorice root
Directions:
Bring water to a light boil. Remove from heat and add cinnamon and liquorice. Step for a minute and then add the rest of the herbs. You can leave this tea to steep for a long time, however, if using normal thyme remove it after 10min, otherwise it will get quite bitter. Serve it hot or chilled.
Enjoy!
If you make this tea we’d love to see! Tag us @aroharetreats on Instagram or Facebook