Herbal Tea Recipes to Boost your Immune System

Tea has become one of the most popular beverages in the world, only second to water, and can be traced back to the days of the ancient Chinese Empires where the camellia sinensis plant was used to make green tea or black tea. Fast forward to the present day, and tea has become diverse in many ways, as it has branched out to various varieties, which include different flavours and infusions. One such branch of tea that has become popularised over the years is herbal (tea) infusions. 

There is a common misconception in herbal infusions, as many would think that the same plant used for manufacturing green tea and black tea is utilised. However, it is really a blend of spices and herbs instead of the traditional camellia plant. Regardless, they are known for its many health benefits, of which strengthening the immune system is one major element. Here are four simple herbal (tea) infusion recipes for you to try out at home and experience its health benefits.

Chamomile Tea 

This particular herbal (tea) infusion is one of the most popular beverages out of the lot, as chamomile flowers are easily obtainable, and is simple to make. Moreover, the benefits of this infusion does not only cover the physical aspects, but also the mental aspects of health. 

How to make Chamomile Tea

Ingredients

• 200ml of water (per person)
• Two grams or one teaspoon of Chamomile flowers (per person)
• One fresh sprig of mint (per person)
• Two teaspoons of honey (optional)

Method

• Boil fresh spring water
• Prepare two grams or one teaspoon of flowers (per person) and a sprig of mint in pot or cup 
• Pour boiled water onto flowers (200ml per person)
• Close cup or pot to preserve aroma
• Stir after 1 minute so it brews well
• Leave it to brew for another 3-4 minutes
• Strain into teacup
• Add in honey (optional) and mix well before consuming

Using Zesta Connoisseur Chamomile tea bags make things easier for you, as it cuts down preparation time. If you want to know about the health benefits of chamomile click here.

Mint Tea

Mint tea is another very easy beverage to prepare, and has a host of health benefits, such as maintaining oral hygiene, good metabolism, and a great immune system overall. Moreover, this herbal (tea) infusion can be tweaked to your liking too.

How to make Mint Tea

Ingredients

• 10 mint leaves
• One sprig rosemary
• Half a lemon (optional)

Method

• Boil fresh spring water
• Tear mint leaves into a cup
• Add in the rosemary sprig while the water is boiling
• Pour boiled water on the mint leaves
• Let it steep for around 10 minutes
• Strain into teacup
• Add in a splash of lemon to your liking before consuming

It is as easy as that. You also have the opportunity to do something similar with Zesta Connoisseur Peppermint tea bags to cut down preparation time.

Osmanthus Tea

Just like its chamomile counterpart, Osmanthus tea is also derived from a fragrant flower that has many antioxidant properties, and is easy to prepare.

How to make Osmanthus Tea

Ingredients

• One teaspoon or two grams of Osmanthus flowers
• 200ml of water (per person)
• Two teaspoons of honey (optional)

Method

• Place dried Osmanthus flowers in a cup.
• Pour boiling water to the cup
• Cover and let it steep for 2-3 minutes.
• Add in honey and mix well before consuming

The antioxidant properties present in this herbal (tea) infusion detoxes the body, provides vital nutrients to boost the body’s immune system, and many more that you could find here. If you do not have fresh Osmanthus flowers, a good alternative is to use Zesta’s Black Tea Infused with Osmanthus Flowers, as it mixes in the benefits of pure Ceylon black tea as well.

Ginger Tea

Considered to be a great remedy for the common flu, along with alleviating any digestive problems and strengthening the immune system as a whole, ginger tea is an herbal infusion that can be made in numerous ways. But here is a simple recipe to follow

How to make Ginger Tea

Ingredients

• Fresh spring water

• One teaspoon ginger root (grated)
• One and a half teaspoon honey
• Two cloves
• One-inch piece cinnamon bark
• Three-inch strip orange peel

Method

• Bring a cupful of water to a boil
• Add in all the ingredients when the temperature in the water has dropped a bit
• Let it steep for around 15 minutes
• Strain into teacup before consumption

If you want to cut the preparation time significantly, but still want to have the same benefits and a unique taste, you can use Zesta Ginger Flavoured Black Tea in teabag format instead.

Whether you are a frequent tea drinker or not, these herbal (tea) infusion recipes are sure to not only help boost your immune system, but also allows you to experience a unique side of tea.