Teas to Please

MAKE DELICIOUS, REFRESHING, HOT HERBAL BEVERAGES.

- NAN K. CHASE, RACHAEL DUPREE & KELLY WOOD

When it comes to herbal medicines, teas are the gateway drug. They're easy and relatively harmless to make; plus, who can resist snuggling up with a warm cup of tea after a grueling day of farm chores? While teas from black to green to oolong have both flavorful and healthful qualities, herbal teas, aka tisanes, are one of a host of natural products that you can grow on your farm to boost the immune system and even treat common ailments, such as cold, flu, anxiety or digestive upset, without a trip to the pharmacy.

“It can be helpful to consume teas that contain nutrient-dense herbs on a daily basis because the nutrients are easily assimilated and are very nourishing,” says Christa Sinadinos, a clinical herbalist and founder of the Northwest School for Botanical Studies.

Herbal teas can be made from any part of the plant — roots, leaves, flowers or stems — though the effective parts will vary among plants. If you decide to self-treat with a homemade herbal tea, it's important to use the correct part of the plant. It's also wise to consult a doctor or knowledgeable herbalist first. While most herbs can be safely consumed, some can interact negatively with medications or other herbs.

To make a warm, tasty treatment, crumble or break apart the part of the plant you intend to use. For teas that use aboveground portions of the plant, you'll make an infusion by placing the herb in a vessel, covering with boiling water and steeping for 15 minutes to four hours. (The longer the steep, the more medicinal qualities will be extracted.) For teas made from roots, you'll make a decoction: Place the herb in a pot and pour cold water over top. Bring the water to a boil, and the turn down to a simmer, steeping for an hour or longer.