Rose and Lavender Mélange

After the warming, spicier teas I enjoy in winter, I am longing for the light herbal and floral flavors of springtime. For this hand-blended infusion, I ordered organic dried lemon balm, rose petals and lavender flowers from my favorite herbal source, Mountain Rose Herbs.

I created an infusion that strikes a pleasing balance between the sweet rose, with its uplifting and relaxing qualities, and the distinct lavender flowers, which have a calming effect. The lemon balm is the base which is mildly flavored and imbues a sense of calm and balances mood.

Instructions:

3 parts dried lemon balm

2 parts dried pink rose petals

1 part dried lavender flowers

Combine and add 1 Tbsp to a tea diffuser. Pour 8 ounces boiling water over and let steep for 3 minutes. Stir in a very small spoonful of manuka honey to add a hint of earthiness to the tea.

If you are interested in blending your own tea, you can purchase these small lined tea bags in which to store the blend. To make enough tea to fill a bag, I combine 1 cup of lemon balm, 2/3 cup rose petals and 1/3 cup lavender flowers. Alternatively, you can store in a glass jar and store away from sunlight.