For as long as I can remember, my parents have ended each day with a hot pot of tea, no matter the season. So, for me, these warm concoctions have always been my cue to wind down, chill out, and decompress.
When I became interested in growing herbs, I learned that not only are they appealing, fragrant additions to a garden, they’re also great allies in healing and wellness (and have been for centuries). When dried herbs (or fresh-cut, in some cases) are steeped in hot water and then strained, the resulting liquid is called a tisane, or herbal tea.
My favorite remains a tried-and-true flavor: Mint. It’s soothing, it’s relaxing, and it’s perfect after you’ve had a big dinner. Mint works fast on an upset stomach by promoting good digestion and assuaging the symptoms of heartburn. And, if you like mixing your own teas, peppermint is a great (and common) addition due to its “cooling” property.
Brewing the Perfect Cup of Mint Tea
Mint tea is available for purchase at most grocery and health stores, but there’s something satisfying about making your own with either dried herbs or plants cut straight from the garden.
Step 1: Add dry or fresh mint to a Mason jar, cup, or teapot. I generally use about a tablespoon of dry herbs per 8 ounces of water. If using fresh herbs, double the amount.
Step 2: Boil the water (easy enough).
Step 3: Pour boiling water over the leaves and then gently “bruise” the leaves with a spoon against the side of your teapot. This minor neglect releases the plants’ oils.
Step 4: Cover and steep for about 15 minutes. Then uncover, cool, and enjoy.
Tea Around Town
If you prefer to imbibe in the company of others here are a few spots to try in Dallas
Cosmic Café
2912 Oak Lawn Ave.
(214) 521-6157
This awesome spot serves delicious vegetarian Indian food and has a vast assortment of teas – including mint. Plus, its peaced-out interior décor is anything but boring.
Wild Detectives
314 W Eighth St.
(214) 942-0108
This is an old house that’s been flipped into a charming bookstore and bar. They serve beer, wine, coffee, and yes – tea. Wild Detectives boasts two herbal teas: lemon chamomile and peppermint, and plenty of reading material, to boot.
Ascension
1621 Oak Lawn Ave.
(214) 741-3211
This spot is a welcoming coffee and wine bar that also serves food. It also has a few fancy tea options, but none is as appealing as the herbal spicy mint.
Starbucks (completely ubiquitous) steeps Teavana’s “Mint Majesty” for when you’re on the go. Wherever you drink your tea, enjoy it! It’s one of life’s simple pleasures.
