Brew Three Get-Well Teas
Three tea recipes that help people feel better, to make with a child.
The Kind Boy made the Fairy King a cup of tea, and the Fairy King got better. With these directions you can make your own. It takes about 10 minutes.
For hundreds of years, people made tea from leaves and flowers when somebody felt unwell. Every family had its favorites. Mint was for an upset tummy. Chamomile was for a person who could not sleep.
These three teas are simple enough for a child to make, with a grown-up handling the hot water. The tea is only part of the gift. The other part is sitting with somebody while they drink it.
The three teas
Mint Tea. For a tummy that feels strange, or after a big dinner. It tastes bright and cool.
Lemon Balm Tea. For somebody who cannot stop thinking. It is gentle and lemony, and good before bed.
Chamomile Tea. For going to sleep. It is made from small yellow flowers and tastes a little like apples.
What you need
Leaves
Fresh leaves from your own plants, dried herbs from the kitchen, or herbal tea bags from the store. All three work.
Mugs
One mug for each person, and a saucer for each mug.
Tools
A kettle, and a small strainer or a spoon.
Honey
If you like it sweet.
A grown-up
For every step with hot water.
1. Pick the leaves
If you grow your own herbs, pick them in the morning, when the leaves smell strongest. Cut each stem just above the place where two leaves meet. Two new stems will grow from that spot. Never take more than a third of a plant. Rinse the leaves and shake them dry.
2. Fill the mug
Put a small handful of fresh leaves in the mug. If the leaves are dried, use one teaspoon, because dried leaves are stronger than fresh ones. If you have tea bags, use one bag.
3. Add the hot water
A grown-up heats the water in a kettle and fills the mug.
4. Cover and wait
Put a saucer on top of the mug and wait five minutes. The saucer keeps the steam in, and the steam carries the smell.
5. Strain and taste
Take the leaves out with a strainer or a spoon. Let the tea cool until it is warm, not hot. Taste it. Then add a little honey if you like.
6. Give it away
Take the tea to somebody who is not feeling well. Sit with them while they drink it.
7. Fill a get-well basket
For somebody who lives far away, fill a small jar or envelope with dried leaves. Write the name of the tea on a label. Put it in your get-well basket with a mug and a note.
