Discover the Benefits of Local and Homegrown Herbs for Healing, Cleansing, and Stress Relief

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Let’s talk tea. Not the kind you buy in tiny, processed tea bags from the grocery store but the kind you can grow, harvest, and blend yourself—pure, loose-leaf herbal tea. Herbal teas have been cherished for centuries for their ability to soothe the soul, heal the body, and rejuvenate the mind. They’re simple to make, versatile, and when you grow the herbs yourself, they’re as fresh as it gets.

I’ll admit, my herbal tea journey didn’t start as some wellness-inspired experiment. It started because I wanted something to help balance my hormones and reduce stress—without relying on yet another store-bought product. Fast forward a few months of growing, drying, and blending my own herbs, and I can’t imagine my daily routine without these teas.

Today, I’m sharing five of my favorite herbal tea mixes that you can easily grow and blend at home. These aren’t just any tea blends; they’re crafted for healing, cleansing, and supporting your overall well-being. Whether you’re looking to balance your hormones, boost oxygen flow, or simply enjoy a calming cup of tea, these blends have you covered.

Essentials For Harvesting & Making Your Own Homemade Tea

If you’re ready to start brewing your own delicious, healing tea blends straight from your garden, there are a few key tools you’ll need to make the process easy and enjoyable. These five essentials will take you from harvesting to sipping, ensuring your homemade teas are fresh, flavorful, and full of benefits.

Garden Shears or Scissors

First things first: harvesting! A sharp, reliable pair of garden shears or scissors is your best friend when it comes to snipping fresh herbs and flowers without damaging the plants. Look for rust-resistant tools with precision blades to make clean cuts. Treating your plants with care during harvest ensures they keep growing strong and providing you with more tea-worthy goodness. Here are the Garden Shears I have and my favorite Kitchen Scissors.

Drying Rack or Dehydrator

Once your herbs are harvested, it’s time to dry them. A drying rack allows for gentle air-drying, which preserves the flavor, aroma, and nutrients of your herbs. If you’re short on time or want to process larger batches, a food dehydrator works wonders for speeding up the process while maintaining quality. Both options ensure your herbs are perfectly dried and ready for storage.

Glass Storage Jars with Airtight Lids

After drying, storage is key. Glass jars with airtight lids are perfect for keeping your homemade tea blends fresh and free from moisture. Not only do they look beautiful lined up in your kitchen, but they also protect the delicate flavors of your herbs. Label each jar with the herb name and harvest date, and you’ll have a ready-to-go tea apothecary at your fingertips.

Fine Mesh Tea Infuser or Reusable Tea Bags

When it’s time to steep your tea, a fine mesh tea infuser or reusable fabric tea bags are must-haves. These allow you to brew your loose-leaf blends easily, ensuring no stray leaves or flowers end up in your cup. Plus, they’re eco-friendly and reusable—better for your tea and the planet!

Mortar and Pestle

For that extra burst of flavor, a mortar and pestle is the perfect tool for gently crushing dried herbs and flowers. Crushing releases the essential oils and natural aromas that make homemade teas so special. It’s a simple, old-fashioned tool that enhances your blends and adds a touch of charm to the tea-making process. I have a small and large one of this mortar and pestle! The small one I save for all my herbs and spices while my larger one is for larger batches and always for fresh guacamole!

Now that you’ve got your tea-making toolkit ready, let’s get to a few of my favorite Herbal Tea Mixes! Trust me, these blends are not only delicious but full of natural healing benefits.

Herbal Tea Mixes

Blend #1: Root Chakra Balancer

Ingredients: Dandelion root, sage, ginger, elderflower

This blend is all about grounding and balance. It’s the perfect tea for days when you feel disconnected or overwhelmed. The earthy, warm flavors work harmoniously to support the root chakra, encouraging stability and a sense of security. Let’s dive into why each herb is a star in this blend.

Dandelion Root

Key Benefits: Dandelion root is a detoxifying powerhouse that supports liver health, aids digestion, and helps cleanse the body. It’s also known to encourage emotional stability by promoting a grounded and calm state of mind.

Growing Zones: Thrives in zones 3–9 and is one of the easiest plants to grow in most gardens. Dandelions are resilient, requiring minimal care, and they even help improve soil health.

Harvesting Tips: Harvest the roots in early spring or late fall when they’re most nutrient-dense. Wash, chop, and dry them thoroughly before use.

Sage

Key Benefits: Sage is celebrated for its clarity-boosting properties and ability to reduce inflammation. It’s also known for promoting wisdom and mental clarity, making it a perfect herb for balancing both the body and mind.

Growing Zones: Grows best in zones 5–9 and thrives in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. Sage is a hardy perennial that’s easy to maintain in a home garden.

Harvesting Tips: Pick fresh leaves as needed or harvest larger quantities in late summer before the plant flowers. Dry the leaves in a cool, shaded area to preserve their potency.

Ginger

Key Benefits: Ginger is a warming herb that supports digestion, enhances circulation, and provides a comforting spice to this blend. Its ability to improve blood flow makes it especially grounding and energizing.

Growing Zones: Prefers zones 9–12 but can also be grown indoors in pots in colder climates. It thrives in warm, humid environments with indirect sunlight.

Harvesting Tips: Plant ginger rhizomes in spring and harvest after 8–10 months. Fresh ginger can be sliced, dried, or powdered for use in teas.

Elderflower

Key Benefits: Elderflower is a delicate, fragrant flower that supports immune health and reduces inflammation. Its subtle floral flavor adds a light, uplifting note to the blend.

Growing Zones: Thrives in zones 3–8 and prefers rich, moist soil with partial to full sunlight. Elder plants are hardy and easy to cultivate in most climates.

Harvesting Tips: Collect the flowers when they are fully open, usually in late spring or early summer. Dry them gently to retain their flavor and medicinal properties.

Root Chakra Balancer Herbal Tea Blend

To recreate this blend, use the following proportions:

• 2 parts dandelion root

• 1 part sage

• 1 part ginger

• 1 part elderflower

Instructions:

1. Measure out the herbs using the proportions above. For example, if you’re making a larger batch, you could use 2 tablespoons of dandelion root, 1 tablespoon of sage, 1 tablespoon of ginger, and 1 tablespoon of elderflower.

2. Mix the dried herbs thoroughly and store them in an airtight glass jar in a cool, dark place.

3. To prepare the tea, use 1 teaspoon of the blend for every cup of water.

4. Steep the herbs in hot water (just below boiling) for 5–7 minutes.

5. Strain and enjoy your grounding cup of tea.

How to Enjoy: Sip this tea slowly in a quiet space, focusing on the warm, earthy flavors and the sense of connection it brings. It’s ideal for grounding meditations or moments when you need to feel rooted and stable. Pair it with deep breaths and mindfulness to amplify its balancing effects.

Blend #2: Headache Soother

Ingredients: Lavender, chamomile, rosemary, mint

Tension headaches are the worst—whether they’re brought on by stress, poor sleep, or just a hectic day. This soothing herbal tea blend is a natural way to ease the ache and promote relaxation. The combination of calming lavender, anti-inflammatory chamomile, circulation-boosting rosemary, and refreshing mint makes it a true lifesaver. Let’s explore why each ingredient is essential in this mix.

Lavender

Key Benefits: Lavender is renowned for its ability to calm the mind and reduce tension. Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties make it particularly effective for easing headaches caused by stress or muscle tension. Additionally, lavender’s soothing aroma promotes relaxation and helps you unwind.

Growing Zones: Thrives in zones 5–9 and prefers well-drained soil and full sun.

Harvesting Tips: Harvest lavender when the flowers are just starting to open. Dry them in small bundles hung upside down in a cool, dark place.

Chamomile

Key Benefits: Chamomile is a gentle but powerful herb that reduces inflammation, calms the nervous system, and promotes relaxation. It’s especially helpful for headaches triggered by stress or fatigue. Chamomile also contains antioxidants that support overall wellness, making it a perfect addition to this blend.

Growing Zones: Grows well in zones 3–9 and thrives in sunny spots with well-drained soil.

Harvesting Tips: Harvest chamomile flowers when they are fully open. Dry them on a flat surface in a warm, shaded area to retain their delicate flavor and properties.

Rosemary

Key Benefits: Rosemary enhances circulation, which is essential for relieving headaches caused by poor blood flow. Its sharp, invigorating aroma can also help clear mental fog and sharpen focus. Rosemary’s anti-inflammatory properties make it a valuable addition to any headache remedy.

Growing Zones: Grows best in zones 7–10 and prefers well-drained soil and full sun.

Harvesting Tips: Snip fresh rosemary sprigs as needed or harvest larger quantities in late summer. Dry them in bunches or use fresh in your tea blend for a stronger flavor.

Mint

Key Benefits: Mint is refreshing and cooling, providing quick relief for nausea and headaches. It contains menthol, which can help relax muscles and ease tension in the head and neck. Mint’s crisp flavor also complements the other herbs in this blend beautifully.

Growing Zones: Thrives in zones 3–11 and grows best in partial sun with moist soil.

Harvesting Tips: Pick mint leaves as needed throughout the growing season. To dry, spread them out in a single layer in a warm, well-ventilated area.

Headache Soother Herbal Tea Blend

• 2 parts chamomile

• 2 parts mint

• 1 part lavender

• 1 part rosemary

Instructions:

1. Mix the Ingredients: Combine the dried herbs in the proportions listed above. For example, use 2 tablespoons each of chamomile and mint, and 1 tablespoon each of lavender and rosemary for a small batch.

2. Store the Blend: Keep the tea blend in an airtight glass jar in a cool, dark place to preserve its freshness and potency.

3. Brew the Tea: Use 1 teaspoon of the blend per cup of water. Pour freshly boiled water over the herbs and let steep for 7–10 minutes.

4. Strain and Enjoy: Strain the tea, inhale the soothing aroma, and sip slowly to let the headache melt away.

How to Enjoy: This tea is best enjoyed in a quiet space with dim lighting. The warm, calming aroma works wonders for soothing tension, while the gentle flavors help you unwind. Pair it with a few deep breaths and a cozy blanket for the ultimate headache-relief ritual.

Blend #3: Hormonal Harmony

Ingredients: White peony root, shatavari root, rose buds

Women’s health deserves gentle, natural support, and this tea blend delivers just that. Designed to balance hormones, support menstrual health, and promote emotional well-being, this blend combines earthy roots and delicate floral notes for a soothing and rejuvenating experience. Whether you’re dealing with PMS, hormonal imbalances, or the effects of stress, this tea is a wonderful way to support your body and mind.

White Peony Root

Key Benefits: White peony root is known for its ability to balance hormones, improve circulation, and support reproductive health. It is often used in traditional Chinese medicine to alleviate menstrual irregularities, reduce cramps, and enhance fertility. Its mild, earthy flavor provides a grounding element to this blend.

Growing Zones: Thrives in zones 4–8. White peonies prefer well-drained soil and full to partial sunlight.

Harvesting Tips: Harvest the root in late fall or early spring when the plant is dormant. Wash, slice, and dry the roots thoroughly for tea use.

Shatavari Root

Key Benefits: Shatavari, an adaptogenic herb from Ayurvedic medicine, is renowned for supporting hormonal balance, especially in women. It’s beneficial for managing symptoms of PMS, menopause, and stress-induced hormone imbalances. Shatavari also boosts energy, enhances fertility, and promotes overall vitality.

Growing Zones: Thrives in zones 9–12. It requires a warm, humid climate and can also be grown in greenhouses in cooler areas.

Harvesting Tips: Harvest the roots after the plant has matured for 18–24 months. Clean, slice, and dry the roots for storage and tea preparation.

Rose Buds

Key Benefits: Rose buds add a subtle, floral sweetness to this blend while promoting emotional balance and relaxation. They are rich in antioxidants, which support overall health and skin radiance. Roses are particularly effective for soothing mood swings and reducing stress, making them a valuable addition to any hormonal health tea.

Growing Zones: Grows in zones 5–9. Roses flourish in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight.

Harvesting Tips: Harvest rose buds early in the morning when their fragrance is most potent. Air-dry them gently in a shaded area to retain their color and properties.

Hormonal Harmony Herbal Tea Blend

• 2 parts white peony root

• 2 parts shatavari root

• 1 part rose buds

Instructions:

1. Mix the Ingredients: Combine the dried herbs in the proportions listed above. For example, use 2 tablespoons each of white peony root and shatavari root, and 1 tablespoon of rose buds for a small batch.

2. Store the Blend: Store the tea mix in an airtight glass jar away from direct sunlight to preserve its freshness and potency.

3. Brew the Tea: Use 1 teaspoon of the blend per cup of hot water. Pour the water over the herbs and let them steep for 5–7 minutes.

4. Strain and Enjoy: Strain the tea, sip slowly, and enjoy the soothing flavors and balancing benefits.

How to Enjoy: This tea is perfect for moments when you feel out of balance or in need of extra support. Sip it during your menstrual cycle to ease discomfort, or enjoy it in the evening to unwind and nourish your body. The delicate floral notes of rose buds, combined with the grounding roots, create a harmonizing experience that’s as delicious as it is healing.

Blend #4: Calm and Grounding

Ingredients: Lemon balm, holy basil (tulsi), ashwagandha, valerian root

When life feels overwhelming, sometimes the best remedy is a moment of calm. This tea blend is like a deep breath in a teacup, designed to help you relax, ground yourself, and regain clarity. The combination of calming lemon balm, stress-reducing holy basil, adaptogenic ashwagandha, and tension-relieving valerian root creates a tea that soothes both the mind and body.

Lemon Balm

Key Benefits: Lemon balm is a gentle herb known for its ability to reduce anxiety, calm the nervous system, and promote restful sleep. Its refreshing, citrusy flavor pairs beautifully with the other herbs in this blend, making it a standout choice for relaxation.

Growing Zones: Thrives in zones 4–9 and prefers well-drained soil and partial to full sun.

Harvesting Tips: Harvest the leaves before the plant flowers for the best flavor and potency. Dry them in a cool, dark place and store in an airtight container.

Holy Basil (Tulsi)

Key Benefits: Holy basil, or tulsi, is revered in Ayurvedic medicine for its adaptogenic properties, which help the body cope with stress. It’s known to enhance mental clarity, support emotional balance, and reduce feelings of overwhelm. Tulsi has a warm, slightly peppery flavor that complements the blend’s calming profile.

Growing Zones: Thrives in zones 10–11 but can be grown indoors in cooler climates. It prefers well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight.

Harvesting Tips: Harvest the leaves and stems regularly to encourage new growth. Air-dry the leaves in a shaded area to retain their medicinal properties.

Ashwagandha

Key Benefits: Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogen that helps the body manage physical and emotional stress. It supports overall well-being, promotes relaxation, and aids in reducing cortisol levels, making it a perfect addition to this grounding tea blend.

Growing Zones: Thrives in zones 9–11 and requires a warm, dry climate with well-drained soil.

Harvesting Tips: Harvest the roots after the plant has matured for at least one year. Wash, slice, and dry the roots thoroughly for tea use.

Valerian Root

Key Benefits: Valerian root is nature’s sedative, known for its ability to promote deep relaxation and relieve tension. It’s often used to aid sleep, making it an excellent choice for unwinding after a stressful day. Its earthy flavor pairs well with the other herbs in this blend.

Growing Zones: Grows in zones 4–9 and prefers moist, well-drained soil with partial to full sun.

Harvesting Tips: Harvest the roots in late fall. Clean them thoroughly and dry them slowly to preserve their potency.

Calm and Grounding Herbal Tea Blend

To recreate this blend, use the following proportions:

• 2 parts lemon balm

• 2 parts holy basil (tulsi)

• 1 part ashwagandha root

• 1 part valerian root

Instructions:

1. Mix the Ingredients: Combine the dried herbs in the proportions listed above. For example, use 2 tablespoons each of lemon balm and holy basil, and 1 tablespoon each of ashwagandha root and valerian root for a small batch.

2. Store the Blend: Store the tea mix in an airtight glass jar, away from direct sunlight, to maintain freshness and potency.

3. Brew the Tea: Use 1 teaspoon of the blend per cup of hot water. Pour the hot water over the herbs and let steep for 10 minutes.

4. Strain and Enjoy: Strain the tea, sip slowly, and feel the day’s worries drift away.

How to Enjoy: This tea is best enjoyed during quiet moments when you need to reset and recharge. Pair it with deep breathing or meditation for enhanced grounding effects. The soothing combination of flavors and calming herbs will leave you feeling balanced, relaxed, and ready to face whatever comes next.

Blend #5: Oxygen Booster and Cleansing Tea

Ingredients: Soursop leaves, nettle, red clover, hibiscus

When your body needs a little extra support, this tea is your go-to blend. Packed with herbs that enhance circulation, promote detoxification, and boost oxygen flow, it’s a vibrant and refreshing way to improve overall health. The combination of earthy and tart flavors creates a bright and energizing cup that’s perfect for daily enjoyment.

Soursop Leaves

Key Benefits: Soursop leaves are rich in antioxidants, making them powerful allies in fighting free radicals and reducing inflammation. They’ve been traditionally used to support immune health and may have properties that reduce the risk of certain cancers.

Growing Zones: Thrives in zones 10–12, preferring tropical climates.

Harvesting Tips: Harvest the leaves from a healthy tree throughout the growing season. Rinse and air-dry them in a shaded area for optimal preservation.

Nettle

Key Benefits: Nettle is a nutrient-dense herb loaded with vitamins (A, C, and K) and minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium. It supports kidney health, improves oxygen flow by enhancing red blood cell production, and helps detoxify the body.

Growing Zones: Thrives in zones 3–10 and grows well in rich, moist soil with partial sun.

Harvesting Tips: Harvest young nettle leaves before the plant flowers. Wear gloves when handling fresh nettles to avoid irritation. Dry the leaves in a well-ventilated space for tea use.

Red Clover

Key Benefits: Red clover is celebrated for its ability to promote liver health, balance hormones, and support detoxification. It’s rich in isoflavones, which may help reduce symptoms of menopause and improve cardiovascular health.

Growing Zones: Thrives in zones 3–9 and prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight.

Harvesting Tips: Harvest the blossoms when they’re fully open but before they start to fade. Dry them gently in a cool, dark place to preserve their vibrant color and properties.

Hibiscus

Key Benefits: Hibiscus is known for its ability to enhance circulation, reduce blood pressure, and promote heart health. Its tangy, tart flavor adds a refreshing zing to the blend. Hibiscus is also rich in antioxidants, making it a great herb for cleansing and rejuvenation.

Growing Zones: Thrives in zones 9–11 and requires warm temperatures and well-drained soil.

Harvesting Tips: Harvest hibiscus flowers when they’re fully open. Separate the calyxes (the red part) and dry them thoroughly for tea use.

Oxygen Booster and Cleansing Tea Blend

• 2 parts nettle

• 2 parts red clover

• 1 part soursop leaves

• 1 part hibiscus

Instructions:

1. Mix the Ingredients: Combine the dried herbs in the proportions listed above. For example, for a small batch, use 2 tablespoons each of nettle and red clover, and 1 tablespoon each of soursop leaves and hibiscus.

2. Store the Blend: Store the tea mix in an airtight glass jar in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness.

3. Brew the Tea: Use 1 teaspoon of the blend per cup of hot water. Pour the hot water over the herbs and let steep for 8–10 minutes.

4. Strain and Enjoy: Strain the tea, savor the vibrant aroma, and enjoy the energizing and cleansing benefits.

How to Enjoy: This tea is perfect for mornings when you need a refreshing boost or afternoons when you’re looking to reset and recharge. Its bright, tangy flavor pairs beautifully with a slice of lemon or a touch of honey, making it as enjoyable as it is nourishing.

Growing and Harvesting Tips

If you’re new to growing herbs, don’t overwhelm yourself by planting too many varieties at once. Begin with a few easy-to-grow herbs that thrive in your growing zone. As you gain confidence and experience, you can expand your herb garden and experiment with different plants to enhance your tea blends.

Timing is everything when it comes to harvesting. Pick your herbs in the morning, just after the dew has dried, when the oils (and their flavor) are most concentrated. To preserve their potency, air-dry the herbs in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated space. Avoid direct sunlight, which can degrade their essential oils and nutrients.

Once your herbs are fully dried, store them in airtight glass jars to maintain their freshness and flavor. Keep the jars in a cool, dark place, away from sunlight and heat, to ensure your herbs remain potent and ready to brew whenever you need them.

So, are you ready to start blending your own herbal teas? These five mixes are not just delicious—they’re healing, grounding, and a beautiful way to connect with nature. Whether you’re sipping on a calming blend after a long day or enjoying a cleansing tea to support your health, each cup is a step toward wellness.

Let me know in the comments which blend you’re excited to try first! And don’t forget to subscribe for more homesteading tips, recipes, and DIY inspiration. Happy brewing! 🌿