Lemon Mint Sun Tea

One of my favorite summertime beverages is sun tea. Not the tea of the south, but the good stuff. You know, tea that's been kissed by the sun.

 Oh ya.

Sun tea requires 4 things: tea bags, water, a gallon jar, and a little sunshine. (If you live near me, that last one also requires a little luck.☺)  Once the basic recipe has been mastered, (and by mastered, I really mean, made once. Without spilling it.), it can be taken to another level by adding fresh or dried herbs.

Since I have an abundance of lemon balm, chamomile, and mint, I decided to use those. Lemon balm is known for it's calming effects. It is commonly used in tea to relieve stress and can help you sleep better. Mint is a natural breath freshener (and can't we all benefit from a little extra freshness?), and promotes mental focus. It is also a good choice for soothing a tummy ache, or relieving nasal congestion from a cold. Chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used to boost the immune system and promotes sleep.

Chamomile flowers can be found in any store that sells bulk spices & teas. I think there's some kind of unwritten rule that says chamomile must be included in the bulk teas. Very easy to find. But, if you live in an area that only has a Shell station with a Subway attached, you can find dried chamomile flowers here.

 

~The Players~

1/2 cup dried chamomile flowers

1/2 cup fresh mint

1/2 cup fresh lemon balm

3-4 black tea bags

Place chamomile, mint, and lemon balm in a 1 gallon glass jar. Cover with water. Add tea bags and place lid on top.

Place in sunshine and allow to steep for 4-6 hours. Line a colander with cheesecloth and strain the tea. Serve the tea over ice. Sweeten, if desired.

 

Enjoy!