Have you ever been on an herbal hike, where you collect wild medicinal herbs and plants? It is so much fun and there is so much of wild nutrition we can harvest. Now, the question is how do we use it? Well, one answer is making teas. Teas are very important on everyday basis. They offer multitude of health benefits. Particularly, many herbal teas, medicinal mushroom teas can be consumed more than a cup or two. However, most people can't consume more than a cup or know what to do if they do end up making big batches from herbs harvested in the wild or in their gardens. There is only so much that can be sipped.
It is best to drink water that is infused with natural ebullience. One way is to make teas with herbs, spices, citrus rinds, dehydrated or fresh fruits or even dehydrated vegetables. I have found a great approach of using my batches of herbal tea into my culinary recipes making them super-nutrient recipes. Caffeine containing beneficial teas can be used in gourmet preparations as well, just the amount and way they are used are usually slightly different. Black tea has been, popularly, used in the preparation of black chhole or black chickpea curry since ages to impart a unique depth of flavor, color, and aroma to the dish.
I, often, use a batch of cleaver tea, which is brewing in the first image below. Second image shows batches of cleaver tea in my refrigerator. I love adding it to my curries and juices.
Why do I love cleaver tea? It is due to its immense benefits. Cleaver tea, derived from the Galium aparine plant, also known as goosegrass or bedstraw, is an herbal infusion that has been traditionally used for its health benefits. It is used to support lymphatic drainage, detoxification processes and immune function in the body, helping to remove waste products, toxins, and excess fluids from the lymphatic system. It has diuretic properties, which may help promote the production and elimination of urine, supporting fluid balance, and potentially alleviating water retention and bloating. Moreover, cleaver tea is used topically or consumed orally to support skin health and address various skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne, due to its potential detoxifying and anti-inflammatory properties. Regular consumption of cleaver tea may help promote a clear, radiant complexion by supporting detoxification, reducing inflammation, and promoting overall skin health. It is rich in antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals, protect cells from oxidative damage, and support overall cellular health and vitality. It is regularly used as a general tonic to support overall health and well-being, providing a natural source of vitamins, minerals, and beneficial compounds that contribute to vitality and resilience.
Some potential benefits associated with herbal teas:
1. Rich in Antioxidants:
Herbal teas are often rich in antioxidants, such as flavonoids, polyphenols, and vitamin C, which help neutralize free radicals, protect cells from oxidative stress, and support overall cellular health.
2. Promotes Hydration:
Herbal teas contribute to daily fluid intake, supporting hydration, metabolic processes, and overall hydration status.
3. Supports Digestive Health:
Certain herbal teas, like peppermint, ginger, chamomile, and fennel, may help alleviate digestive discomfort, support gut health, and promote digestive enzyme activity. Herbal teas with carminative properties, such as chamomile, peppermint, and dandelion, may help reduce bloating, gas, and indigestion.
4. Promotes Relaxation and Sleep:
Herbal teas like chamomile, lavender, lemon balm, and valerian may help promote relaxation, alleviate stress, and support sleep quality due to their calming and soothing properties.
5. Supports Immune Function:
Herbal teas, such as echinacea, elderberry, and ginger, may support immune function, enhance resistance to infections, and promote overall immune health.
6. Alleviates Menstrual Symptoms:
Herbal teas like ginger, chamomile, and raspberry leaf may help alleviate menstrual cramps, reduce discomfort, and support menstrual health.
7. Supports Respiratory Health:
Herbal teas, including peppermint, thyme, and eucalyptus, may help relieve respiratory symptoms, support lung function, and promote respiratory health.
8. Supports Liver Function:
Certain herbal teas, such as dandelion, milk thistle, and nettle, may support liver function, aid in detoxification, and promote overall metabolic health.
9. Anti-inflammatory Effects:
Herbal teas with anti-inflammatory properties, such as turmeric, ginger, and green tea, may help reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and support overall inflammatory balance.
10. Aromatic and Flavorful:
Herbal teas offer a diverse range of flavors, aromas, and profiles that can enhance culinary creations, including beverages, desserts, marinades, and sauces.
Some other common teas that can be a delightful and versatile ingredient in culinary creations, adding unique flavors, aromas, and health-promoting properties to various dishes and beverages are listed below.
1. Chamomile Tea:
Flavor Profile: Mild, floral, and slightly sweet.
Culinary Uses: Infuse chamomile tea into syrups, creams, custards, or baked goods for a subtle floral flavor. It pairs well with fruits, honey, and spices in desserts, beverages, and sauces.
2. Peppermint Tea:
Flavor Profile: Refreshing, minty, and invigorating.
Culinary Uses: Use peppermint tea to infuse chocolates, creams, ice creams, or beverages for a refreshing and aromatic flavor. It complements chocolate, berries, and citrus fruits in various desserts and drinks.
3. Ginger Tea:
Flavor Profile: Spicy, warming, and aromatic.
Culinary Uses: Incorporate ginger tea into marinades, dressings, sauces, or desserts for a zesty and invigorating flavor. It pairs well with fruits, vegetables, and spices in savory and sweet dishes.
4. Rosehip Tea:
Flavor Profile: Tangy, fruity, and slightly tart.
Culinary Uses: Use rosehip tea to create flavorful jellies, jams, syrups, or sauces, adding a vibrant color and fruity flavor to desserts, beverages, and savory dishes.
5. Lavender Tea:
Flavor Profile: Floral, aromatic, and soothing.
Culinary Uses: Infuse lavender tea into desserts, syrups, creams, or beverages for a delicate and aromatic flavor. It pairs well with honey, lemon, berries, and herbs in various culinary creations.
6. Lemon Balm Tea:
Flavor Profile: Citrusy, lemony, and mildly sweet.
Culinary Uses: Incorporate lemon balm tea into salads, dressings, marinades, or desserts for a bright and refreshing flavor. It complements fruits, vegetables, and seafood in various dishes.
7. Hibiscus Tea:
Flavor Profile: Tangy, fruity, and vibrant.
Culinary Uses: Use hibiscus tea to infuse beverages, syrups, sauces, or desserts with its rich color and tart flavor. It pairs well with fruits, herbs, and spices in sweet and savory dishes.
8. Rooibos Tea:
Flavor Profile: Earthy, nutty, and slightly sweet.
Culinary Uses: Incorporate rooibos tea into baked goods, desserts, ice creams, or beverages for a unique and flavorful twist. It pairs well with chocolate, caramel, nuts, and spices in various culinary creations.
9. Cinnamon Tea:
Flavor Profile: Warm, spicy, and aromatic.
Culinary Uses: Use cinnamon tea to infuse desserts, beverages, sauces, or marinades with its comforting and aromatic flavor. It complements fruits, chocolates, nuts, and spices in sweet and savory dishes.
When using herbal teas in culinary recipes, consider experimenting with different flavors, concentrations, and combinations to discover new and delicious creations that cater to your taste preferences and culinary creativity.
It is important to note that while herbal teas offer potential health benefits, individual responses may vary, and it is advisable to look it up, consult with an herbalist or a nutrition coach for personalized guidance and recommendations based on your individual health needs, preferences, and any underlying health conditions. Incorporating a variety of herbal teas as part of a balanced and diverse diet, along with a healthy lifestyle, can contribute to overall well-being and enjoyment.
When we make our everyday food medicinal with intention and love, it is a recipe for best health ever, glowing skin, highest productivity, feeling great and living with grace. So, let's cook with intention!
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