If you’re looking for a simple, calming drink, lemon balm tea is a great choice. Made from the leaves of the lemon balm plant, this tea offers a fresh, light flavor that’s both soothing and tasty. To make lemon balm tea, just steep fresh or dried lemon balm leaves in hot water for about 5 to 10 minutes.
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You can enjoy it hot or cold, making it perfect for any season. Whether you want to relax after a long day or refresh yourself on a warm afternoon, lemon balm tea is easy to prepare and caffeine-free. With just a few steps and ingredients, you can bring this herbal tea into your daily routine.
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Step-by-Step Guide to Making Lemon Balm Tea
You’ll need a few simple ingredients and some easy steps to prepare a fresh and tasty cup of lemon balm tea. Paying attention to how you prepare the leaves and control the brewing time will help you get the best flavor and benefits.
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Ingredients Needed
To make lemon balm tea, you will need:
- Fresh or dried lemon balm leaves: about 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried leaves or a few fresh leaves per cup.
- Water: Use fresh, clean water, about 8 ounces per cup.
- Optional: honey, lemon slices, or mint for extra flavor.
Fresh lemon balm has a brighter taste, but dried leaves work well too. Avoid using old or brown leaves, as they will affect the flavor.
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Preparation Tips
Start by rinsing fresh lemon balm leaves under cool water to remove any dirt. If you use dried leaves, gently crush them to release more flavor.
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Make sure your tea pot or cup is clean. Pre-warming it with hot water can help keep the tea warmer longer.
If you want a stronger flavor, add more leaves. For a lighter taste, use fewer leaves or steep for less time.
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Brewing Instructions
Bring your water to a full boil and pour it over the lemon balm leaves in a teapot or cup. Cover the tea so the steam stays inside.
Let the leaves steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Steeping longer will give a stronger flavor but can also make the tea bitter.
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After steeping, strain out the leaves. Add honey or lemon if you like. Enjoy your tea hot or let it cool for a refreshing iced version.
Serving and Enhancing Your Lemon Balm Tea
You can enjoy lemon balm tea in many ways to suit your taste. Adding flavors or choosing the right serving style can make your tea more enjoyable and relaxing.
Flavor Variations
Try mixing lemon balm with other herbs for a fresh twist. Mint or chamomile pairs well and adds calming effects. You can also squeeze in a bit of honey or lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
If you like a sweeter tea, add natural sweeteners like agave or maple syrup. Spices like cinnamon or ginger create a warm, comforting taste. Experiment with small amounts until you find what you enjoy most.
Making iced lemon balm tea is another option. Brew the tea strong and chill it with ice cubes. Add a splash of lemon or fresh fruit slices like strawberries for a refreshing summer drink.
Serving Suggestions
Serve lemon balm tea hot in a clear glass or ceramic cup to enjoy its light color. Thin tea cups work well because they cool the tea at a good pace.
If you want to boost relaxation, drink your tea in a quiet spot. Pair it with light snacks like crackers or fruit to keep the calming feeling going.
For iced tea, serve it in tall glasses with plenty of ice. Use mint leaves or lemon slices as a garnish to make it look inviting. Keep your tea fresh by stirring gently before serving.
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