Stay Well with a Cup of HELP Tea
A Herbal Remedy You Can Create at Home – Be Your Own Kitchen Alchemist
With colds and flu currently circulating, it's always great to have natural remedies on hand to support our immune system and vitality. HELP tea is a new twist on the classic YEP tea (Yarrow, Elderflower, Peppermint); it combines Hibiscus, Elderflower, Liquorice, and Peppermint.
I can’t take credit for this combination—it was actually requested by my 10-year-old daughter yesterday as she sat tucked up on the couch with a head cold. This brought me so much joy because it was a beautiful moment of a child listening to her body’s intuitive wisdom. We all have this inner healer within us, and no one knows our body and its needs better than we do… we just need to remember to listen… and trust…
Here's a closer look at these potent (and delicious) herbs and their benefits:
Hibiscus
Rich in vitamin C, Hibiscus is a great herbal ally for boosting the immune system. It’s also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe sore throats and reduce congestion. Hibiscus has a tart, slightly fruity flavour that gives this tea its refreshing taste.
Elderflower
Elderflower is well known for its ability to help with cold and flu symptoms, including reducing fever and relieving congestion. It has natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that support overall wellness. In addition to its immune-boosting effects, Elderflower is also known to soothe irritated respiratory passages, making it perfect for coughs and colds.
Liquorice Root
Liquorice root has long been used for its soothing properties, particularly for the digestive and respiratory systems. It helps reduce inflammation and acts as a mild expectorant, helping to clear mucus from the airways. Its sweet flavour also makes it a great addition to the tea, balancing out the more herbal notes of the other ingredients.
Peppermint
Peppermint is not only refreshing, but it also has incredible properties for easing congestion and soothing an irritated throat. It contains menthol, which can help open up the airways and reduce sinus pressure. The cooling effect of Peppermint also makes it ideal for calming the body during feverish spells.
How to Make HELP Tea
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon Hibiscus Flowers (dried)
1 teaspoon Elderflower (dried)
1/2 teaspoon Liquorice Root (dried)
1 teaspoon Peppermint Leaves (dried)
1 cup water
Instructions:
Place the water and Liquorice Root in a small saucepan with the lid on. Bring to the boil, then gently simmer for 10 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the remaining herbs (Hibiscus, Elderflower, and Peppermint Leaves), then put the lid back on and leave to infuse and cool. For a stronger flavour and more potent medicine, steep it as long as possible (even overnight!).
Strain the herbs and pour the tea into your favourite cup.
Optional Add-ins: For extra flavour, you can add a teaspoon of honey, a slice of lemon, or a pinch of cinnamon.
Sip slowly and let the soothing, healing properties of the herbs work their magic. Perfect for when you're feeling under the weather or just need a calming, nourishing drink.