Iced Lemon Balm & Lavender Tisane

Make this bright-flavored, hydrating iced tisane recipe and stay cool all summer while experiencing the health benefits of lemon balm and lavender.

With the help of only three ingredients, you can enjoy the hydrating and nourishing elements of this iced herbal tisane throughout the warm, summer months.

For reference, a tisane differs from a true tea that can only be black, green, oolong, yellow or white, coming exclusively from the tea plant, Camellia sinesis. Tisanes are made from various botanical plants (or plant parts) that have medicinal bioactivity and are synonymous with herbal tea. People have been making tisanes for thousands of years to treat various ailments and conditions but also out of sheer enjoyment and ritual.

Lavender and Lemon Balm are both known for their calming, energetic properties and they each add a lovely, subtle summer flavor to this beverage. Lemon Balm is part of the mint family and it expresses a gentle, refreshing aroma that can be calming in its own right. We suggest adding a slice of lemon and a dollop of local honey to create an extra special summer treat.*

INGREDIENTS:

8 sprigs fresh lemon balm leaves (or dried, see note below)
8 springs fresh lavender leaves
5 cups water
Ice
Optional: Honey & lemon

Note: If you would like to use dried herbs, ratio should be 1 tablespoon of fresh herb to 1 teaspoon of dried Lemon Balm and dried Lavender.

INSTRUCTIONS:

Bring water to a boil while you place lavender and lemon balm into a heat-proof container. Pour boiling water in and steep to desired strength. We recommend at least 20 minutes. Then allow to cool before removing plant material and pouring over ice. Stir in some honey and a slice of lemon if desired. Enjoy!