As the winter weather sets in, there’s nothing quite like a hot cup of herbal tea to create a sense of comfort and take the chill from the air. Beyond their soothing qualities, herbal teas have been used for centuries as natural ways to support both body and mind. Whether you’re looking to relax after a long day, enjoy a gentle boost of energy, or help support your immune system during the winter months, the right blend of herbs can make all the difference.
With over 400 dried herbs available at Penn Herb Company, choosing the right ingredients can feel overwhelming. The following list is designed to help you become familiar with the properties of some of our favorite herbs so you can create your own wellness tea blends.
- Chamomile Flowers – gentle digestion relief; soothing support for occasional feelings of anxiousness and stress, calms the nervous system.
- Chicory Root– supports liver function and improves digestion; source of inulin, a gut-friendly fiber.
- Dandelion Root – liver nourishing; helps to break down food and digest fats.
- Echinacea – immune & respiratory system support; lymphatic function.
- Ginger Root– supports circulation and blood flow, promotes digestion; supports a healthy inflammatory response.
- Ginkgo Biloba – supports circulation and blood flow; supports a healthy inflammatory response.
- Gotu Kola – supports memory and clarity of thinking; supports skin and connective tissue.
- Hibiscus – a source of naturally occurring bioflavonoids and immune-supporting vitamin C
- Lavender – calming, relieves stress, and lifts mood.
- Lemon Peel, Orange Peel – citrus peels are loaded with vitamin C, bioflavonoids, and antioxidants; calm upset stomach, soothe gas, nausea, and bloating.
- Lemongrass – the lemony-scented herb is a great after-dinner tea for digestive wellness
- Licorice – soothes the digestive tract; supports a healthy inflammatory response; helps the body absorb nutrients; good for sore throats.
- Passionflower – calms mind-chatter to help you get restful sleep; for occasional sleeplessness related to nervous irritability.
- Peppermint – aids digestion; promotes mental alertness; supports head well-being.
- Raspberry Leaf – a good source of antioxidants; women’s wellness tonic.
- Rose – calming, soothing, relaxing, supports emotional well-being.
- Rose Hips – an herbal source of antioxidants, vitamins C, E, and B.
- Rosemary – memory and cognitive function; supports a healthy inflammatory response.
- Tulsi (Holy Basil) – known for being a powerful adaptogen, it helps you manage and adapt to physical and mental stress; energizes the mind, sharpens awareness, uplifts mood, and supports immune function.
- Valerian – powerful relaxant for nervous tension, restlessness, and occasional sleeplessness; relaxes muscle tension.
Herbal teas are easy to make at home, customizable to your taste, and a wonderful daily ritual. Below are two simple herbal tea recipes, each with a specific purpose, using time-tested herbs such as elderberries, chamomile, and rose hips. For more recipes such as moon milks and caffeine-free chai, see our earlier blog post.
Calming Tea: Chamomile & Rose Petal Relaxation Blend
This soothing tea is perfect for winding down in the evening or finding a moment of calm during a busy day.
Benefits
- Chamomile is well known for its calming properties and gentle support for digestion.
- Rose petals add a light floral flavor and help promote relaxation.
- Lemon balm (optional) enhances the calming effect.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon dried chamomile flowers
- 1 teaspoon dried rose petals
- 1 teaspoon dried lemon balm (optional)
Instructions
- Bring 1 cup of water to a gentle boil.
- Add herbs to a teapot or mug.
- Pour hot water over the herbs, cover, and steep for 5–7 minutes.
Strain and enjoy. Sweeten lightly with honey if desired.
Immune Support Tea: Rose Hip & Elderberry Winter Blend
This nourishing tea is a wonderful companion during the colder months when immune support is most needed.
Benefits
- Rose Hips are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Elderberries support immune health.
- Cinnamon adds warmth and helps with circulation
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon dried rose hips
- 1 tablespoon dried elderberries
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon chips, or one small cinnamon stick
Instructions
- Bring 1½ cups of water to a boil.
- Add herbs and reduce heat to a simmer.
- Simmer gently for 10–15 minutes.
- Strain and enjoy warm. Add honey for sweetness if desired.
As you explore these blends or begin creating your own, remember that herbal tea is as much about wellness as it is about intention. Each cup offers a small moment to slow down, listen to your body, and choose herbs that support how you want to feel that day. Trust your senses, and enjoy the quiet comfort that comes from working with herbs, one warm cup at a time.
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