Lemon Balm Tea Recipe

 

Lemon balm tea is a simple yet delightful herbal infusion that has been cherished for centuries. With its soothing lemony aroma and gentle minty undertones, this tea is perfect for relaxation, stress relief, and promoting better sleep. Whether you grow lemon balm in your garden or purchase dried leaves, making a warm cup of this tea is an easy and rewarding process. Not only does it taste refreshing, but it also offers mild health benefits, making it a perfect bedtime ritual or a mid-day stress reliever.

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a perennial herb in the mint family that thrives in home gardens and can be harvested fresh or dried for later use. The process of making lemon balm tea is simple, requiring only hot water and fresh or dried leaves. You can enjoy it plain, with honey, or a slice of lemon for extra flavor.

---

Ingredients:

• 20 fresh lemon balm leaves (or 2 tablespoons dried leaves)

• 4 cups boiling water

• Honey or sugar (optional)

• Lemon slices (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Leaves:

   • If using fresh leaves, rinse them gently under cold water and pat dry.

   • If using dried leaves, crush them slightly with your fingers to release their oils.

2. Steeping the Tea:

   • Place the fresh or dried lemon balm leaves in a teapot or heatproof container.

   • Pour the boiling water over the leaves and cover.

   • Let the tea steep for 5-10 minutes, depending on your preferred strength. Stir occasionally to help the infusion process.

3. Strain and Serve:

   • Use a fine mesh strainer to pour the tea into cups, removing the leaves.

   • Add honey or sugar if desired, and garnish with a slice of lemon for extra flavor.

   • Enjoy warm, or let it cool and serve over ice for a refreshing iced tea.

---

How to Dry Lemon Balm for Future Use:

Lemon balm dries quickly and can be stored for later use. Here are a few methods to dry it efficiently:

1. Microwave Method:

   • Place clean, dry leaves in a single layer on a paper towel.

   • Microwave on high for 30-40 seconds until dry and crumbly.

   • Let cool before storing in an airtight container.

2. Sun Drying Method:

   • Arrange leaves on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

   • Place in a sunny area until they become crisp and dry.

   • Store in an airtight jar in a dark, dry place.

3. Oven Drying Method:

   • Preheat oven to 180°F.

   • Spread leaves on a baking sheet and bake for 2-4 hours until crisp.

   • Cool and store in an airtight container.

4. Dehydrator Method:

   • Preheat the dehydrator to 95°F-115°F.

   • Spread leaves evenly and dehydrate for 1-2 hours.

   • Store in a sealed container for up to a year.

---

Best Water Temperature for Herbal Tea:

• Herbal & Black Teas: 200°F - 212°F (just boiling)

• White & Green Teas: 140°F - 185°F

---

Making lemon balm tea is a wonderful way to enjoy the calming benefits of this fragrant herb. Whether you sip it warm before bed or serve it chilled on a hot day, this simple tea is a refreshing and healthful addition to your daily routine.