Basil is a favorite for many so here we are sharing some of our favorite ways of using it. Welcome to this post about how to make lemon basil tea. One of my favorite things to do with leftover basil is when I have maybe had a big harvest. Something that seems to be more common each year as I learn more and more about gardening. Lemon basil tea really is a treat for you and a great way to never throw something away. If you maybe don’t grow lemon basil tea at home but want to learn how to make basil tea anyway, then we have just the post for you.
How To Make Lemon Basil Tea
So how can you make the best lemon basil tea then? The key for me making this is having really healthy and fresh leaves to choose from. It’s such a big factor that it can really make or break a good tea. Even though normally with tea you would use dried herbs from probably a long time ago. Using herbs like basil or even stuff like lemon balm or lemon verbena freshness trumps everything.I actually put my basil plant in the sun for a little bit to further have some sunlight on it and live it up a bit. I have not concluded anything on this but the teas I make on a sunny day when my plant has been outside seem to make the best ones. I typically only use the leaves since I like to pluck the flowers early to make my plant continue growing for the season and not slow down. But making basil tea from the flowers is also very tasty. It will of course be a little bit more floral and sweeter too.
Lemon Basil Tea Benefits
Lemon basil tea is a flavorful and refreshing drink that offers numerous health benefits. Here are some of the potential benefits of drinking lemon basil tea:
- Antioxidant properties: Lemon basil tea is rich in antioxidants that help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to chronic diseases.
- Digestive health: Lemon basil tea may help improve digestion and relieve digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and constipation.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: The essential oils in lemon basil have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation and pain throughout the body.
- Stress relief: Lemon basil tea has a calming effect that may help reduce stress and anxiety levels.
- Respiratory health: Lemon basil tea is believed to have respiratory benefits and may help relieve congestion, cough, and other respiratory symptoms.
- Immune system support: Lemon basil tea contains vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system and helps the body fight off infections.
Overall, lemon basil tea is a tasty and healthy way to boost your overall wellness and support your body’s natural functions.
How Is Basil Tea Prepared
I don’t really use a measurement for the tea. I always go by feeling. So the first thing I do is boil my water. Then I pluck some lemon basil leaves and let them steep in the water for about a minute or two. Any less won’t get the flavor out, and any more will dull the flavor. It’s a balancing act.
Even though I say I don’t use the measurement for the tea, I usually use about 6 – 7 leaves at least, rather large ones too for about 200 grams of water. Which would equal 2 dl or almost 0,9 cups. It’s what has worked the best for me I have found.Making your own tea at home with herbs you have grown yourself really is the everyday luxury that can be needed sometimes. I hope you have felt a little bit inspired reading this and feel more informed now about making lemon basil tea.
Lemon Basil Iced Tea
Lemon basil iced tea is a refreshing and flavorful beverage that can be enjoyed on hot summer days. Here is a simple recipe for making lemon basil iced tea:
Ingredients:
- 4-5 cups water
- 4-5 lemon basil leaves
- 4-5 regular tea bags
- 1/2 cup sugar (or to taste)
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Boil the water in a pot on the stove.
- Remove the pot from heat and add the lemon basil leaves and tea bags.
- Let the tea steep for about 5 minutes.
- Remove the tea bags and strain out the lemon basil leaves.
- Add sugar to the tea and stir until dissolved.
- Chill the tea in the refrigerator.
- Serve the iced tea over ice cubes and garnish with lemon slices.
Lemon basil adds a unique twist to the traditional iced tea recipe, and its citrusy flavor pairs well with the lemon slices. The sugar can be adjusted to taste, and honey or other sweeteners can be used instead. This lemon basil iced tea is perfect for outdoor gatherings or as a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up.
Lemon Ginger Basil Tea
Lemon ginger basil tea is a flavorful and aromatic tea that can be enjoyed hot or cold. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups water
- 1-2 lemon slices
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh basil
- Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
- Add 1-2 slices of lemon and the sliced ginger to the boiling water.
- Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- Add 1-2 sprigs of fresh basil to the tea and simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the tea from the heat and strain it through a fine mesh strainer.
- If desired, add honey or sugar to taste.
- Serve the tea hot or chill it in the fridge to make a refreshing iced tea.
Lemon ginger basil tea is a great way to enjoy the health benefits of ginger, lemon, and basil. It’s also a delicious and unique twist on traditional lemon tea. Enjoy it as a soothing warm beverage or as a refreshing iced tea on a hot day.
Basil Health Benefits
Basil offers a plethora of health benefits. Packed with antioxidants, it shields the body from free radical damage. Its anti-inflammatory traits combat inflammation, bolstering overall well-being. With antibacterial and antifungal properties, basil wards off infections. Rich in essential nutrients like vitamins K, A, and C, calcium, and iron, it supports overall health. Research indicates basil’s potential in stress reduction, digestion improvement, and even cancer prevention. Moreover, its aroma uplifts mood, easing anxiety and inducing relaxation. Incorporating basil into your diet can contribute to a healthier, happier you.
