How to Brew a Relaxing Lemon Balm Tea

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, finding moments of tranquility can be a challenge. However, something as simple as brewing a cup of tea can offer a slice of relaxation amidst the chaos. Lemon balm tea, with its calming properties and delightful taste, is a perfect choice for anyone looking to unwind. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps of making your own relaxing lemon balm tea at home, ensuring a peaceful break in your busy schedule.

What is Lemon Balm?

Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, is renowned for its soothing effects and its gentle, citrusy scent. It’s been used for centuries to help with sleep, reduce stress, and alleviate digestive issues. With its light lemon flavor, it’s not only beneficial for your health but also a pleasure to drink.

Selecting Your Lemon Balm

You can find lemon balm in various forms – fresh, dried, or as teabags – at your local health food store or even grow it in your own garden. Fresh lemon balm leaves are ideal for making tea because they offer the most vibrant flavor. However, dried lemon balm or teabags are more convenient and can be stored for longer periods.

Ingredients

Fresh lemon balm leaves (a handful) or 2 tablespoons of dried lemon balm or 1-2 lemon balm teabags
Boiling water (approximately 1 cup)
Honey or lemon slices (optional, for taste)

Equipment

Teapot or teacup
Strainer (if using fresh or dried leaves)

Instructions

Prepare the Lemon Balm: If you’re using fresh lemon balm leaves, gently rinse them to remove any dirt. Then, either leave them whole or chop them to release more flavor. For dried lemon balm, measure out about two tablespoons. If you’re using a teabag, then you’re already set to go.
Boil the Water: While your lemon balm is being prepared, boil a cup of water. It’s important to let the water reach a rolling boil because hot water is key to extracting the full flavor and benefits from the lemon balm.
Steep the Lemon Balm: Place your fresh or dried lemon balm in the teapot or teacup. Once the water has boiled, pour it over the lemon balm. If you’re using a teabag, simply place it in the cup and add the boiling water. Let it steep for about 5 to 10 minutes. The longer you allow it to steep, the stronger the flavor and benefits.
Strain and Serve: If you used fresh or dried leaves, strain the tea into another cup to remove the bits of leaves. If you used a teabag, just remove it from the cup.
Customize Your Tea: This step is all about personal preference. If you like your tea sweeter, feel free to add a spoonful of honey. A slice of lemon could also enhance the citrus flavor of the tea. However, many people enjoy lemon balm tea in its simplest form, without any additions.
Enjoy: Now comes the best part – enjoying your cup of relaxing lemon balm tea. Find a quiet spot, take a moment to appreciate the aroma, and sip slowly. Lemon balm tea is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a soothing balm for the soul.

Final Tips

Consistency is Key: For the best results, make drinking lemon balm tea a regular part of your relaxation routine. Having a cup in the evening can be particularly beneficial for winding down before bedtime.
Preserve Freshness: If you’re using fresh lemon balm leaves, they can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Wrap them in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag to maintain their freshness.
Mind the Time: While lemon balm tea is safe for most people, drinking it in moderation is advisable. Stick to one or two cups a day to enjoy its benefits without overdoing it.

In summary, brewing a cup of lemon balm tea is a simple, yet effective way to carve out a moment of peace in your day. Its calming properties can help soothe the mind, making it an ideal choice for relaxation. So go ahead, give it a try and let the gentle flavors and aromas of lemon balm tea lead you to a state of calm and relaxation.