Winter teas: Our top warmer picks
|Tips
As the temperature drops and daylight hours dwindle, our desire for warmth and comfort grows. During this period, winter teas are the perfect remedy. Besides warming our body and mind, they also help keep us hydrated and ward off the seasonal blues.
To learn about the best plants to infuse and their truly amazing benefits, we chatted with Judith Letarte, a herbalist and naturopath. Let’s see what is it all about!
Winter teas and how to best enjoy them!
To begin with, it’s worth noting that herbalism and phytotherapy use plants to boost overall health and wellness. While these practices are generally safe, we would, however, like to remind youthat some plants can interact with medications, changing how well they work or making their effects stronger.
Before trying natural health products, supplements, or plants for therapeutic reasons, be sure to first talk to a healthcare professional. Pharmacists are especially knowledgeable about how medications interact, so they can offer valuable advice. Don’t hesitate to stop by your local pharmacy to find out which tea is best for you.
The plants we’re highlighting here are deemed to have preventive and comforting effects. You can use them to complement your winter routine and usually find them at a health food store, herbalist or in the natural health section of some supermarkets.
Nature’s power in every cup
Boosting body and mind
Balm fir herbal tea
Benefits: Balm fir is a native species originating from North America, commonly found in Quebec. This iconic tree of boreal forests, often adorning our homes at Christmas, possesses numerous antiseptic and decongestant virtues. It’s an effective antiviral that helps prevent colds, sore throats and alleviates respiratory issues. If balm fir is unavailable, spruce can be used as a suitable alternative to support the immune system.
What to use: Dry needles are best, which can be found at most herbalist stores
How to make it: Steep 1 tablespoon of balm fir needles in boiling water, then cover to trap the aromas; enabling you to savour the subtle nuances of the plant. Since you’re using needles and not leaves, go for a longer infusion time – about 30 minutes. The woody fragrance is comforting, and the taste is milder than you’d expect. Strain and enjoy!
Holy basil tea (Tulsi)
Benefits: Holy basil, also known as tulsi, is a popular herb in India, where it’s called the “Queen of Herbs” in Ayurvedic medicine. This amazing plant has many benefits: it fights off viruses, reduces inflammation and pain, and combats bacteria. It’s also an adaptogen, helping your body cope with stress over time. Plus, it can lower blood pressure, promote better sleep and reduce inflammation.
What to use: The leaves
How to make it: Steep 1 tbsp of holy basil in hot water for 5-10 minutes, and cover. Its spicy and clove-like flavour is extremely comforting. Strain and serve! You can drink it anytime or have a cup before bed to help with insomnia.
Oat infusion tea
Benefits: Oats originate from Central Europe and are widely available in North America. They help regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels. As an adaptogen, oats are also recognized for effectively combating physical and mental stress, while stimulating appetite.
What to use: Use only the flowering tops of oats (the flower and a bit of stem) not the oat flakes
How to make it: Steep 2 tbsps of oats and cover. Its delicate and slightly sweet flavour lends itself to a long infusion (about 30 minutes), which can be left overnight if you desire. Strain and drink!
For a boost of energy and vitality.
Ginger infusion tea
Benefits: Ginger is a tropical, perennial plant native to India and southern China. It offers numerous benefits, particularly in terms of energy, making it an ideal ally during the winter months. Additionally, ginger promotes better blood circulation, improves digestion, alleviates nausea and helps restore vitality.
What to use: The fresh ginger roots
How to make it: Steep 2-3 slices of fresh ginger in hot water for about 10 minutes, and cover. Strain and consume! As ginger tea is quite stimulating, it’s best to avoid drinking it in the evening due to its strong, spicy flavour.
Siberian ginseng (eleuthero) tea
Benefits: Eleuthero, also known as Siberian ginseng, is a perennial, adaptogenic plant belonging to the ginseng family, native to Siberia. Widely available in stores, Siberian ginseng is ideal for maintaining physical fitness, energy and brain function.
What to use: The dried roots
How to make it: As Siberian ginseng is a hypertensive agent, it is recommended to consume it in moderation. Steep 1 teaspoon of Siberian ginseng and cover. Opt for a longer infusion time (approximately 20 minutes). Strain and serve!
Rosemary infusion tea
Benefits: Originating from the Mediterranean basin, rosemary is an aromatic shrub cultivated since ancient times. This perennial plant stimulates the liver, the primary organ responsible for detoxifying the body. It also alleviates stomach discomfort. As a tonic and stimulant, rosemary improves mental clarity and fights fatigue.
What to use: The dried leaves (the same as those used in cooking)
How to make it: As rosemary is a hypertensive agent, it is recommended to consume it in moderation. Steep 1 tbsp of rosemary for approximately 15 minutes, and cover. Strain and serve. Being easier to metabolize than coffee, rosemary tea is ideal to drink in the late afternoon, around 3-4 pm, to counteract an energy slump without disrupting sleep once night falls.
For relaxation
Camomile infusion tea
Benefits: Camomile is a plant native to the Middle East, now widely cultivated in Europe, North America and Australia. For centuries, it has been valued for its calming and soothing properties. In addition to promoting restful sleep, camomile has anti-inflammatory effects on the entire digestive system.
What to use: The flowers
How to make it: Steep 1 tsp of camomile in boiling water, and cover. Keep the infusion short, not exceeding 5 minutes, as the tea can become bitter. Strain and enjoy.
Linden infusion tea
Benefits: Linden, which comes from Central and Southern Europe, is often used to reduce stress, insomnia and even high blood pressure. It also helps soothe digestive issues like acid reflux and stomach upset thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.
What to use: The flowers (crushed into small pieces or used whole)
How to make it: Steep 1 tsp of linden pieces for 20-30 minutes, and cover. Alternatively, place a generous handful of whole flowers in your cup. Strain and enjoy!
Catnip infusion tea
Benefits: Catnip is a plant native to Europe and Central Asia that acts as a “mental chill pill”. It helps calm racing thoughts, so it’s easier to fall asleep. Catnip also promotes a state of calm, making it an excellent aid for meditation and mindfulness practices.
What to use: The flowering tops (the flowers plus a few centimetres of stem)
How to make it: Steep 1 tbsp of catnip, and cover. Allow it to infuse for 5 to 10 minutes. Strain and serve. As catnip is non-sedating, it can be enjoyed at any time of day, from morning to evening.
Plants aren’t just good for you – they also come in a variety of wonderful flavours! So don’t be afraid to experiment and find the ones you love. Try each plant on its own first, then mix and match to come up with your perfect personal blend. Get creative and have fun!
If you live in a residence, why not spread the joy and share this relaxing experience with others? Hosting a winter tea tasting around the residence fireplace is a great way to make the most of the season. Go ahead, enjoy a special moment. Your winter will be that much cozier!