There are many different types of tea, each with its own unique flavor and health benefits. But one of the most delicious and healthy types of tea is floral tea, which is made by steeping fresh or dried flowers in hot water. By enjoying the flavors of various flowers, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy beverage that is perfect for any time of day. In this herbal tea guide, I will walk you through the best flowers for tea, many of which you can grow right in your home garden.
Table of Contents
What Is Floral Tea
Tea is one of the most popular drinks in the world, and there are many different types to choose from. One variety that has become increasingly popular in recent years is floral tea. Floral tea is made by infusing tea leaves with flowers, and it can be found in a wide range of flavors.
While some floral teas are made with a single type of flower, others are blended to create a more complex flavor. Hibiscus, rose, and jasmine are some of the most commonly used flowers in floral tea, but there are many other options available as well.
In addition to being delicious, flower tea is also said to have a number of health benefits. We will discuss some of the main potential benefits of floral teas below.
Benefits of Floral Tea
Just like we seen with green tea, floral tea has the potential to offer a range of health benefits. Some of the main potential benefits associated with floral tea include:
Rich in antioxidants
Antioxidants are important nutrients that help to protect your cells from damage. They have been linked with a lower risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer. Floral teas are rich in antioxidants, which may contribute to their health benefits.
Contains flavonoids
Flavonoids are a type of antioxidant found in plants. They have been linked with various health benefits, including a lower risk of heart disease and cancer. Many floral teas are high in flavonoids, which may contribute to their potential health benefits.
May improve digestion
Digestive problems, such as constipation and diarrhea, are extremely common. Some studies suggest that herbal teas, like floral tea, can help to improve digestion. This is thought to be due to the fact that they contain compounds that stimulate digestive juices and promote regularity.
Reduce Inflammation
Inflammation is a natural response of the body to infection or injury. However, chronic inflammation can lead to various health problems, such as heart disease and cancer. Some studies suggest that floral teas may help to reduce inflammation. This is thought to be due to the fact that they contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties.
May Relieve stress
Stress is a common problem that can take a toll on your health. It has been linked with a variety of health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and obesity. Fortunately, there are several ways to manage stress, and one is by drinking herbal tea. Some studies suggest that floral teas may help to reduce stress levels.
How to Make Floral Tea
Now that we have gone over some of the benefits of floral tea, let’s discuss how you can make it at home. While you can purchase pre-made floral tea bags, many people prefer to make their own. This way, you can customize the flavor to suit your preferences.
To make your own floral tea, you will need:
-1 teaspoon of dried flowers or 2-3 teaspoons of fresh flowers
-1 cup of boiling water, you can use a standard tea pot with separate infuser or an electric kettle with tea infuser.
-Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Start by adding the dried or fresh flowers to a teapot or mug.
2. Pour boiling water over the flowers and let them steep for 3-5 minutes.
3. If you want, you can add honey or sugar to sweeten the tea.
4. Once the tea has finished steeping, strain it into a cup and enjoy!
Best Flowers for Tea
Now that you have some background on what floral tea is and the benefits, let’s dig into the best flowers for tea.
Lotus
The lotus flower is best known for its beautiful blooms, which float atop ponds and lakes in warm climates. However, the lotus is also prized for another reason: its leaves make an excellent addition to herbal tea.
Lotus leaves are high in antioxidants, which can help to protect against cell damage and boost immunity. In addition, the leaves contain compounds that may help to lower blood pressure and improve circulation. When brewing tea with lotus leaves, it is important to use only a small amount, as the leaves can become bitter if overcooked. For a perfect cup of lotus leaf tea, steep the leaves in hot water for 3-5 minutes before enjoying.
Chamomile
Chamomile is a small, daisy-like flower that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. Chamomile tea is especially popular as a relaxant before bedtime, as it contains compounds that can promote sleepiness.
In addition to its calming effects, chamomile tea may also help to improve digestion and reduce inflammation. Chamomile tea is relatively easy to find, as it is sold in most grocery stores. However, you can also purchase chamomile flowers online or at a health food store. To make chamomile tea, steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried flowers in hot water for 3-5 minutes.
Globe Amaranth
Globe amaranth is a beautiful flower that ranges in color from purple to pink. The flowers are often used as decorations, as they can retain their color even after being dried. In addition to being pretty to look at, globe amaranth also has some impressive health benefits.
This flower is high in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, it contains compounds that may help to promote heart health. You can find dried globe amaranth flowers online or at a health food store.
Lavender
Lavender is a fragrant purple flower that is often used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation. The flower has also been used traditionally to treat anxiety, insomnia, and headaches.
Recent studies have shown that lavender does indeed have calming effects. In addition, lavender tea may help to improve digestion and reduce inflammation. When purchasing lavender for tea, make sure to get culinary-grade lavender, as some varieties may not be safe to consume.
Anise-Hyssop
Anise-hyssop (Agastache foeniculum) is a perennial herb in the mint family that is native to North America. The plant grows to about 2-3 feet tall and has small, lavender-colored flowers. The leaves have a licorice-like flavor and can be used to make herbal tea.
Anise-hyssop is also a common ingredient in artisanal soaps and lotions. The plant is relatively easy to grow and does well in full sun or partial shade. Anise-hyssop is one of the best flowers for herbal tea due to its delicate flavor and lovely color. If you are looking for a unique flowering plant for your garden, consider anise-hyssop.
Rose Petal Tea
Rose petals have been used to flavor tea for centuries. The delicate flavor of roses pairs well with a variety of other herbs and spices, making it a versatile addition to any tea blend. In addition to its flavor, rose petal tea is also said to have some health benefits. Rose petals are rich in antioxidants, which can help to protect cells from damage.
They also contain vitamins A and C, as well as minerals like iron and calcium. Best of all, rose petals are readily available and easy to use – simply steep a few in hot water and enjoy. So next time you’re looking for a unique twist on your favorite tea, consider adding some rose petals to the mix.
Chrysanthemum Tea
Chrysanthemum tea is a type of herbal tea that is made using the flowers of the chrysanthemum plant. Chrysanthemum tea has a long history in Traditional Chinese Medicine, where it is used to treat a variety of ailments, including headaches and fever.
Chrysanthemum tea is thought to be high in antioxidants, which can help to protect cells from damage. In addition, chrysanthemum tea may help to improve digestion and reduce inflammation. Chrysanthemum tea is relatively easy to find, as it is sold in most Asian grocery stores. To make chrysanthemum tea, steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried flowers in hot water for 3-5 minutes.
Hibiscus
Hibiscus is a tropical flower that is best known for its vibrant red color. Hibiscus tea is made using the dried petals of the hibiscus flower and has a tart, tangy flavor.
Hibiscus tea is rich in antioxidants and has been linked to a variety of health benefits, including lower blood pressure and improved digestion. Hibiscus tea is relatively easy to find, as it is sold in most grocery stores.
Borage
While there are many flowers that can be used to make a tasty cup of tea, borage is one of the best. Also known as starflower, borage is a member of the Boraginaceae family, which includes other well-known herbs such as comfrey and forget-me-nots.
The pretty blue flowers are completely edible, and they make a delicious and refreshing tea. Borage tea is often used as a treatment for anxiety and stress, as it is thought to have calming effects. The flowers can also be added to salads or used as a garnish, adding a splash of color to any dish. Whether you’re looking to relax with a soothing cup of tea or add some visual interest to your plate, borage is the perfect choice.
Mint
Mint is one of the best herbs for making tea. This refreshing and invigorating herb can be used to flavor both hot and cold beverages, and it can be enjoyed fresh or dried. Best of all, mint is relatively easy to grow, and it can thrive in both sunny and shady areas. When choosing a mint plant for your tea garden, be sure to select a variety that is known for its high quality leaves, such as peppermint or spearmint.
Once you have your mint plant, simply snip a few leaves and add them to your favorite tea recipe. Whether you enjoy mint tea on its own or use it as a base for other herbal teas, you are sure to appreciate the delicious flavor and aroma of this versatile herb.
Bergamot
Bergamot is a citrus fruit that is used to flavor Earl Grey tea. The fruit is about the size of an orange and has a yellow-orange color. It is believed that bergamot was first grown in the area around Bergamo, Italy. The name “bergamot” comes from the Italian word for “noble.” Bergamot is also used in perfume and as a flavoring for baked goods. The oil from the fruit is used in aromatherapy.
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Bergamot can be found fresh in some specialty stores, but it is more commonly available in dried form. When choosing a dried bergamot, look for one that is plump and has a bright color. Avoid any that are shriveled or have brown spots. Bergamot can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to six months.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass is a grassy, citrus-scented herb that is often used in Southeast Asian cooking. It is also one of the best flowers for making floral teas. The leaves and stalks of the plant can be used fresh, dried, or powdered. When brewed as a tea, lemongrass is said to have a number of health benefits, including aiding in digestion, boosting the immune system, and reducing stress levels.
In addition to being a delicious and healthy beverage, lemongrass tea is also beautiful to look at, with its golden color and delicate flavor. Whether you are looking for a new flavor to add to your tea collection or simply seeking a soothing cup of tea to relax with after a long day, lemongrass is an excellent choice.
Passionflower Tea
If you’re looking for a flower that’s both beautiful and delicious, look no further than the passionflower. Also known as the maypop, this perennial vine is native to the southeastern United States and produces delicate white flowers with purple or pink accents. The blooms are followed by fruits that can be eaten raw or cooked, and passionflower tea is a popular way to enjoy the plant’s unique flavor.
In addition to being a delicious drinking tea, passionflower tea is said to have a number of medicinal benefits. Some believe that it can help to relieve anxiety and insomnia, while others use it as a natural pain reliever. Whether you enjoy it for its taste or its health benefits, the passionflower is a versatile plant that makes a great addition to any garden.
Tienchi Flower
The Tienchi Flower is one of the best flowers for tea. It has a strong, sweet flavor that is perfect for adding to tea blends. The flowers are also very pretty, with a deep red color that makes them stand out in any arrangement. In addition to being used in tea, Tienchi Flowers can also be eaten fresh or dried.
When dried, they make a great garnish for salads and other dishes. If you are looking for a unique flower to add to your garden, consider growing Tienchi Flowers. You will not be disappointed by their beauty or flavor.
Rosella (Hibiscus)
When it comes to tea, there are many different types to choose from. However, not all teas are created equal. One of the best choices when it comes to tea is rosella. Rosella is a type of hibiscus flower that produces a deep red color when brewed. In addition to its striking color, rosella tea is also known for its tart and fruity flavor.
Because of its unique taste, rosella tea is often used as an ingredient in many different types of desserts. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing cup of tea or a delicious way to add some flavor to your dessert, rosella is a great choice.
Mullein Flower
Mullein is a common flowering plant that has a long history of being used for medicinal purposes. The leaves and flowers of the plant can be dried and made into tea, which is thought to help relieve respiratory conditions such as bronchitis and asthma.
Mullein tea is also sometimes used as a natural remedy for colds and flu. In addition to its medicinal uses, mullein is also a beautiful flower that adds interest to any garden. The flowers range in color from yellow to purple, and they are often found growing in abundance along roadsides and in open fields. Because of its ease of cultivation and attractive blooms, mullein is a popular choice for both home gardens and public parks.
Wrapping Up
There are many different types of flowers that can be used to make tea. In this guide, we have explored some of the best flowers for tea, including lemongrass, passionflower, tienchi flower, rosella, and mullein. Each of these flowers has its own unique flavor and health benefits. So, whether you’re looking for a new tea to try or simply want to add some variety to your garden, consider growing one of these flowers. You won’t be disappointed by the results.
FAQ
Looking for more details on the best flowers for herbal tea, see below for our FAQ section.
How do you make floral teas?
There are many different ways to make floral tea. The most common method is to steep fresh or dried flowers in hot water. This will release the essential oils and flavors of the flower, which can be enjoyed either hot or cold.
Can you use fresh flowers for tea?
While fresh flowers can be used for tea, it is important to note that not all flowers are safe to consume. It is best to stick with flowers that are known to be edible, such as roses, hibiscus, and chamomile. If you are unsure whether a particular flower is safe to eat, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional or experienced gardener.
Most prefer to use dried flowers since they are easier to store.
How Do You Store Flower Tea?
Dried flowers can be stored using the same recommendations as storing loose leaf tea but for best results, they should be stored in the freezer.
What is the best way to dry flowers for tea?
The best way to dry flowers for tea is to place them in a dehydrator set to a low temperature. Alternatively, you can place the flowers in an oven set to the lowest possible setting. It is important to make sure that the flowers are completely dry before using them in tea, as wet or damp flowers can lead to mold growth.
How long do dried flowers for tea last?
Dried flowers for tea can last for several months if stored properly. If stored in a freezer, you can get up to 18 months of shelf life.
Can Flowers Be Added to Other Herbal Teas?
Yes, adding dried flowers to other herbal teas to create herbal tea blends that can provide a unique flavor and health benefits. Some popular flower teas combinations include adding chamomile to lavender tea or dried roses to green tea. For black tea , consider adding jasmine flower buds.
