Want to try herbal medicine, but don't know where to start? Try tea!

Incorporating herbal tea into your daily routine is inexpensive, easy, and a great way to take a few minutes just for you.

            I was looking for a non-medication relief for insomnia when I decided to give herbal tea a try.  I started simply with Chamomile and Valerian.  That helped, so I did some experimenting and some research and came up with my own herbal tea mix that I drink every night shortly before going to bed.

            I also made the act of making the tea a time to slow down and reflect upon the day.  I try to focus on the things that I was able to accomplish that day and shut out all of the things that I didn't.  I go over all of the great things that are happening in my life and think about the great people in my life as well.  This puts me in a calm and peaceful mood which seems to help prepare me for sleep.

            As I said, making the tea mix itself, was a matter of trial and error.  Some herbs that I really benefited from tasted horrible by themselves, so I added things that would temper their bitter taste.

            Here is my final "Dream Tea":

            Valerian

            Skullcap

            Nettle

            Hops

            Chamomile

            Jasmine

            Motherswort

            Peppermint

            I mix the ingredients together in a mason jar with a tight lid and use two teaspoons in the tea strainer.  After adding the hot water I let it steep for about ten minutes, then enjoy.  Note: I found that using an insulated glass tea cup or just covering a regular mug helps to keep the tea hot while it is steeping.

            It also makes a great gift.  I just fill a jar with it, tie a strainer to it with a pretty ribbon, and add a little instruction card.