Overview

plunge yourself in the liven up aroma andrefreshing tasteof homemade spearmint Camellia sinensis , crafted from the verdant farewell of your own garden . Thiscomprehensive guidewill walk you through every step of the process , from harvest the spearmint to steeping the arrant cup .

Harvesting Spearmint

1 . Choose Mature plant : Select spearmint plantsthat are at least one year old and have established roots.2 . Gather Fresh leaf : harvesting leavesfrom the top 6 inches of the works , where they are most tender and flavorful.3 . Cut or Pinch : Usesharp scissorsor pinch the leave off the stems , quash any brown or discredited leaves.4 . Wash Thoroughly : Rinse the farewell incold waterto remove any dirt or debris .

Drying Spearmint

1 . Air Drying : Spread the leaves in asingle layeron a light , teetotal surfaceand countenance them to air wry for several days , turning them occasionally.2 . Oven Drying : Preheat the oven to thelowest setting(usually around 170 ° F ) . Spread the foliage on abaking canvass linedwith parchment paper and bake for 2 - 3 hours , or until they are crispy and dry.3 . Dehydrator : If you have a dehydrator , comply the maker ’s didactics for drying Mentha spicata leaves .

Steeping Spearmint Tea

1 . measure out the Leaves : practice 1 tablespoon ofdried spearmint leavesor 1/4 cup offresh leavesper cupful of water.2 . Heat the piddle : Bring waterto a boil , then remove from heating and get cool for 1 - 2 minutes before pouring over the leaves.3 . Steep : Cover the tea and usurious for 5 - 10 minutes , calculate on the want strength.4 . melodic phrase : Pour the tea through a strainer into a teapot or individual cup .

Flavor Enhancements

1 . Honey or Sugar : Add a jot of sweetness with honey or wampum to taste.2 . Lemon or Lime : Squeeze a wedge of lemon or lime into the tea for a citrusy kick.3 . Fresh Mint : dress the tea with a sprig offresh mintfor anextra burstof flavor .

Health Benefits of Spearmint Tea

1 . Digestive Aid : Spearmint tea helps sootheanupset stomachand meliorate digestion.2 . Antioxidant Properties : The antioxidant in Mentha spicata can helpprotect cellsfrom damage.3 . Stress Reliever : Thecalming aromaof spearmint can helpreduce stressand anxiety.4 . saucy Breath : Spearmint teacan helpfreshen breathand cut uncollectible breath .

Additional Tips

1 . UseFresh LeavesforOptimal Flavor : While dried spearmint foliage are convenient , fresh leaveswill yield the most flavorful tea.2 . Experiment withSteeping metre : Adjust the plunge time to suit your druthers . Longer steeping times will result in a stronger tea.3 . Store Spearmint Tea Properly : stock dried spearmint leavesin an airtight container in a cool , dark place .

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q : How long can I store dried spearmint leaves?A : Properly stash away dried Mentha spicata leavescan last for up to a yr . Q : Can I usedried spearmint leavesin other beverages?A : Yes , you canadd dried spearmint leavesto charmer , cocktails , or iced afternoon tea . Q : Isspearmint afternoon tea safefor everyone to drink?A : in the main , spearmint teais considered safe for most people . However , if you have any health business concern or are drive medications , it ’s always agood ideato refer with ahealthcare professionalbefore consuming spearmint tea .