Does anyone else struggle with sleep? I used to have terrible insomnia and would spend my days feeling like I was in a fog because I could not get more than a few hours of rest, which was usually broken at best. I did some research and started making sure I was keeping a bedtime routine that helped me relax, unwinding from the day. Well, sleep has been evading me again and I am writing this with heavy eyelids. I am going back to my nightly routine which includes earlier bedtimes, meditations, a good book, writing down things I need to get off my mind and of course some tasty tea to help settle down.
Last year we planted mint, and it was the first thing to pop up in the garden, well maybe the chive was first, but mint was a close second. I decided to make some fresh mint tea to help wind down this evening and I loved the results! Luckily mint is one of those plants that you will never run out of so I can make this as much as I want without fear of running out.
Now this is super simple. I usually drink 1 cup of tea, so I picked about 1/2 cup of fresh mint to add to the boiling water. I washed them, dried them, bruised the leaves, boiled 1 cup of water and then poured the hot water over the leaves in a covered container and let steep for 15 minutes.
*One tip I would give is to bruise the leaves before pouring the water over the herbs. This will help the leaves to release more flavor and the oils trapped inside the plants cell walls. I just use my fingers to rub the leaves, but if you have one, a mortar and pestle will work great too.
I always add honey to my tea and this cup was no different. I added right into my cup before pouring. This tea was so yummy and fresh tasting. Throw some mint seeds into your garden so you can enjoy yourself! Just a little warning, use a container if you want to keep your mint in one place, it is an invasive little herb, good thing it is tasty!
Considering that mint does spread and multiply I will end up drying some of our mint, my mom is looking forward to making mint jelly and I think I have a few minty, boozy drinks in my future that I will be sure to share with you! I hope you give this tea a try!
Acorn & Birch 