
Wild River Herbs (Coming Soon!)
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Lavender
Lavandula spp.
Characteristics: warm, dry, relaxant
Taste: aromatic, bitter, sweet
Lavender is a beloved herb renowned for its calming properties and enchanting aroma. At Wild River, we not only embrace lavender's soothing essence in our artisan soaps and body care products, but also our tea!
Sourced with care, our lavender is chosen for its quality and sustainability, having been appreciated for centuries for its versatility and therapeutic effects. Experience the gentle embrace of lavender with our thoughtfully crafted products, designed to uplift and rejuvenate both body and spirit. Discover the exquisite magic of this remarkable herb with Wild River’s dedication to quality and accessible luxury.
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Chamomile
Matricaria recutita, M. chamomilla
Characteristics: warm, neutral, relaxant
Taste: bitter, aromatic, sweet
Chamomile is a beloved herb, well-known for its calming properties and delightful flavor, making it a popular choice for tea. The flowers, with their delicate white petals and sunny yellow centers, are rich in antioxidants and have been used for centuries to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
To prepare chamomile tea, simply steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers in hot water for about 5-10 minutes. The longer you allow the flowers to steep, the stronger the flavor and effect. You can enjoy it plain or add honey, lemon, or a hint of cinnamon to enhance the experience.
Drinking chamomile tea can also aid digestion and help relieve stress after a long day. Its soothing aroma serves as an excellent way to unwind, making it a perfect choice for cozy evenings or morning rituals. Whether you're looking to create a calming experience at home or searching for a comforting drink to share with loved ones, chamomile tea is a wonderful option that brings a touch of nature's goodness to your routine.
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Calendula
Calendula off.
Characteristics: warm, dry, tonifying
Taste: bitter, pungent, salty, sweet
Calendula tea is a soothing and vibrant herbal infusion made from the dried petals of the calendula flower, also known as pot marigold. Renowned for its bright orange and yellow blooms, calendula not only adds a splash of color to your tea but also offers numerous benefits.
To prepare calendula tea, start with about 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried calendula flowers for every cup of hot water. Bring water to a gentle boil, then pour it over the dried petals. Allow the tea to steep for about 5 to 10 minutes to extract the full flavor and properties of the flowers. You can adjust the steeping time based on your taste preference; longer steeping yields a stronger flavor.
The resulting infusion has a light, slightly sweet taste with floral undertones. Besides being enjoyable to drink, calendula tea is known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great choice for those seeking natural remedies. It's believed to support skin health, digestion, and even menstrual comfort.
Feel free to enhance your calendula tea by adding honey for sweetness, lemon for a refreshing zing, or combining it with other herbs like chamomile or peppermint. Whether enjoyed in the morning to start your day or in the evening for relaxation, calendula tea is a pleasant and healthful addition to your herbal repertoire.
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Linden
Tilia americana & cordata
Characteristics: cooling, relaxant
Taste: sweet, mildly salty, musty
Linden flowers, known for their delicate appearance and soothing properties, make a delightful tea that can be enjoyed any time of day. The fragrant, pale yellow blossoms are often harvested in summer, just as they begin to bloom. To prepare linden tea, steep a few teaspoons of dried linden flowers in boiling water for about 10 minutes. The result is a gentle infusion that brings a subtle, sweet flavor with hints of floral notes.
Linden tea is celebrated for its potential benefits, including calming effects that may help relieve stress and promote relaxation. It's often enjoyed as a support for insomnia or anxiety. Additionally, linden may support respiratory health, making it a comforting choice during cold and flu season.
Sip your linden tea plain, or experiment by adding honey for sweetness or lemon for a zesty twist. It's a perfect way to unwind and appreciate the simple, nurturing qualities of nature, just like the handcrafted products at Wild River Artisan Soap and Body Care. Enjoy the moment and let the soothing aroma of linden flowers enhance your day!
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Rose
Rosa canina, R. multiflora, R. rugosa
Characteristics: cool, dry, tonifying
Taste: sweet, aromatic, astringent, sour
Sipping a warm cup of rose-infused tea can be a soothing experience for both the body and mind. The delicate petals of the rose not only offer a charming floral aroma but are also packed with antioxidants, making them a wonderful addition to your wellness routine.
To prepare rose tea, start with dried rose petals, which can often be found at local herbal shops or through reputable online sources. Use about one tablespoon of petals for every cup of water. Bring the water to a gentle boil, then remove it from heat. Steep the rose petals in the hot water for about 5-10 minutes, depending on how strong you like your tea. Strain the petals and enjoy the beautiful infusion.
You can enhance your rose tea with a drizzle of honey for sweetness or a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing twist. This fragrant beverage can be enjoyed at any time of the day, whether to relax in the afternoon or unwind at the end of a long day.
Indulging in a calming cup of rose tea is not just about taste; it’s a moment of self-care and appreciation for nature's wonders.
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Plantain
plantain Plantago major, rugelii, lanceolata
Characteristics: cool, moist, tonifying
Taste: slightly bitter, earthy
Plantain, a versatile herb often found in gardens and along paths, offers soothing benefits when brewed as tea. Rich in nutrients and known for its medicinal properties, plantain leaves can help support respiratory health, ease inflammation, and promote overall wellness.
To make plantain tea, follow these simple steps:
Harvesting: Gently harvest fresh plantain leaves. Make sure to choose young, tender leaves for the best flavor and nutrient profile. If fresh leaves aren’t available, dried plantain leaves can also be used.
Preparation: Rinse the leaves thoroughly under cool water to remove any dirt or insects. If using dried leaves, you'll need about 1-2 teaspoons for every cup of water.
Brewing:
For fresh leaves, tear or chop them to enhance the release of their beneficial compounds.
In a small pot, bring water to a boil.
Add the prepared leaves and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes, depending on your taste preference. The longer you steep, the stronger the flavor will be.
Strain and Serve: Once steeped, strain the leaves from the liquid. Pour your plantain tea into a cup and enjoy it plain, or add a touch of honey or lemon for extra flavor.
Plantain tea not only warms the body but can also be a comforting, herbal remedy packed with additional benefits. Sip on this gentle beverage any time you need a moment of tranquility or support for your wellness journey. Enjoy!
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Hawthorn Leaf, Flower, & Berry
Crataegus oxyacantha, C. monogyna, C. laevigata
Characteristics: cool, dry, tonifying
Taste: sweet, sour, astringent
Hawthorn has long been celebrated for its beneficial properties and makes a delightful tea that's both flavorful and healthful. The leaves, flowers, and berries of the hawthorn tree can all be used to create a soothing infusion.
To prepare hawthorn tea, follow these simple steps:
Gather Your Ingredients: You can use fresh or dried hawthorn leaves, flowers, or berries. If using dried ingredients, a teaspoon per cup of water is generally sufficient.
Boil Water: Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Using filtered or spring water can enhance the flavor of your tea.
Steep the Hawthorn: Place the hawthorn in a tea infuser or directly into a teapot. Pour the boiling water over the leaves or flowers.
Let It Steep: Allow the tea to steep for about 10-15 minutes. The longer you steep, the stronger and more flavorful your tea will become.
Strain and Serve: If you used loose ingredients, strain the tea into your favorite mug. Add honey or lemon for added flavor if desired.
Enjoy: Sip your hawthorn tea and savor the comforting warmth and subtle sweetness.
Enjoy its unique flavor and the peace of mind knowing you're nurturing your body with natural ingredients.
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Tea Leaf (Black/Green)
Camellia sinensis
Characteristics: warm, dry, tonifying
Taste: astringent, bitter, earthy, sometimes aromatic
Black and green tea are two popular types of tea that offer unique flavors and benefits.
Black Tea: Black tea is known for its robust flavor and dark color. It has a higher caffeine content compared to other teas, making it a great pick-me-up option. Rich in antioxidants it also provides a comforting warmth that can be enjoyed plain or with milk and sweeteners.
Green Tea: Green tea is lighter and more delicate in flavor, with a vibrant green hue. It is celebrated for its numerous benefits.
Both black and green tea can be enjoyed alone or in combination with herbs and fruits for added flavor and benefits. Whether you prefer the boldness of black tea or the refreshing taste of green tea, both make for a delightful and healthful choice to incorporate into your daily routine.
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Lemon Balm
Melissa officinalis
Characteristics: cooling, dry, relaxant
Taste: aromatic, sweet
Lemon balm, a fragrant herb belonging to the mint family, is a wonderful addition to tea for both its delightful flavor and numerous health benefits. Infusing lemon balm leaves in hot water releases a refreshing, mild lemon scent that can uplift your spirits and create a calming atmosphere.
It has been traditionally used to promote relaxation, making it an ideal choice for a quiet evening or a cozy afternoon break.
To prepare lemon balm tea, simply follow these steps:
Harvest Fresh Leaves: If you grow your own lemon balm, harvest a handful of fresh leaves. Alternatively, dried lemon balm can also be used.
Heat Water: Bring a cup of water to a gentle boil.
Steep the Leaves: Place the fresh or dried lemon balm leaves in a teapot or infuser. Pour the hot water over the leaves and cover. Allow it to steep for about 5 to 10 minutes, depending on your taste preference.
Strain and Serve: Strain the tea into a cup, and if desired, add a touch of honey or lemon for extra sweetness and flavor.
Enjoying a cup of lemon balm tea not only warms the body but also offers a moment of tranquility amidst a busy day. Incorporating this delightful herb into your tea routine can be a simple yet effective way to support your overall well-being.
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Marshmallow
Althaea officinalis
Characteristics: cooling, relaxant
Taste: Sweet, Salty, Bland
Marshmallow for tea is a delightful addition that not only enhances the flavor but also offers a range of wellness benefits. The marshmallow plant, known scientifically as Althaea officinalis, has soothing properties that can help alleviate sore throats and calm digestive issues.
To make a soothing marshmallow tea, start with dried marshmallow root, which you can find at herbal shops or online. Simply steep a teaspoon of the dried root in a cup of boiling water for about 10-15 minutes. The result is a smooth, slightly sweet infusion that can be enjoyed on its own or blended with other herbs like chamomile or peppermint for added flavor and benefits.
For an extra touch, consider sweetening your tea with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon. This comforting brew not only warms the body but also nourishes the spirit, making it a perfect choice for moments of relaxation or self-care. Enjoy your marshmallow tea and embrace its gentle, healing properties!
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Peppermint
Mentha xpiperita
Characteristics: warm, dry, relaxant
Taste: aromatic, pungent, minty
Peppermint is a versatile herb that adds a refreshing twist to tea, offering a cool, invigorating flavor that awakens the senses. Its bright, aromatic profile is not only pleasant but also packed with benefits. Peppermint tea can provide a soothing effect on the mind and body.
To brew a delightful cup of peppermint tea, start with fresh or dried peppermint leaves. If using fresh leaves, approximately a handful should suffice. For dried leaves, one to two teaspoons will do.
Boil water in a kettle or pot until it reaches a rolling boil.
Place the peppermint leaves in a teapot or infuser.
Pour the boiling water over the leaves, allowing them to steep for about 5-10 minutes, depending on how strong you prefer your tea.
Strain the leaves and enjoy your steaming cup of peppermint tea. For added flavor, consider a touch of honey or a slice of lemon.
Whether enjoyed hot or iced, peppermint tea is a delightful way to refresh your day and embrace the natural benefits of this beloved herb.
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Elder
Sambucus nigra, S. canadensis
Characteristics: cool, dry, relaxant
Taste: sweet, slightly oily, astringent
Elder is a wonderful herb often used to make tea, celebrated for its benefits and delightful flavor. The flowers and berries of the elder plant are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making them a popular choice for supportive beverages.
To prepare elderflower tea, start with dried elderflowers. Use about 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried flowers per cup of boiling water. Steep the flowers for 10-15 minutes, allowing the natural essences and nutrients to infuse into the water. Strain the tea before serving. You can enjoy it as is or sweeten it with honey for added flavor.
Elderberry tea can also be made using dried elderberries. Use similar proportions, steeping the berries for 20 minutes. Elderberry tea is particularly noted for its potential immune-boosting properties, making it a great choice during cold and flu seasons.
Enjoy your elder tea warm or chilled, and savor the natural goodness of this fantastic herb!
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Dandelion
Taraxacum off.
Characteristics: cold, dry, tonifying
Taste: bitter, earthy, sweet, salty
Dandelion isn't just a common garden weed; it's a powerhouse of nutrients and benefits, making it an excellent choice for herbal tea. From root to flower, every part of the dandelion can be used to brew a nourishing infusion.
How to Prepare Dandelion Tea
Gathering: Harvest dandelion leaves, flowers, or roots. For a tea that’s particularly robust, the roots are often preferred. Ensure that you collect from areas free of pesticides and pollutants.
Cleaning: Wash the dandelion parts thoroughly to remove any dirt or insects.
Preparation:
For Leaf Tea: Chop fresh leaves into smaller pieces. Steep about 1–2 teaspoons of chopped leaves in hot water for 5-10 minutes.
For Flower Tea: Use about 1-2 tablespoons of flowers. Steep in hot water for the same duration as the leaves.
For Root Tea: Roast the cleaned roots at 200°F for 1-2 hours until they’re dry and slightly browned. Grind them into a powder, then steep 1 teaspoon in hot water for 10-15 minutes.
Strain & Serve: Strain the tea into a cup and enjoy. Sweeten with honey or add a splash of lemon for extra flavor.
Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, dandelion tea offers a delicious way to reap the benefits of this often-overlooked herb. Embrace the natural goodness and savor each sip!
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Nettle
Urtica dioica
Characteristics: cooling, dry, tonifying
Taste: earthy, salty
Nettle tea is a nourishing herbal infusion made from the leaves of the stinging nettle plant (Urtica dioica), well-known for its robust profile of vitamins and minerals. Rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, and K, nettle is often hailed for its benefits.
Preparation:
Harvesting: If you're gathering nettle leaves yourself, wear gloves to avoid the stinging hairs. Choose young leaves in the spring for the best flavor.
Drying (optional): If you prefer to use dried nettle, spread freshly picked leaves in a single layer on a clean, dry surface away from direct sunlight. Allow them to air dry until completely crisp.
Brewing:
Boil water and remove it from heat.
Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried nettle leaves or a handful of fresh leaves per cup of water.
Steep for 5-10 minutes, depending on your taste preference. The longer you steep, the stronger the flavor.
Strain the leaves out and enjoy!
Flavor Profile: The taste of nettle tea is often described as earthy, slightly grassy, and herbal, making it a soothing choice for any time of day.
Incorporating nettle tea into your routine can not only provide a delightful beverage but also connect you with the natural wellness practices that promote a healthy lifestyle. Enjoy the invigorating benefits of this simple yet powerful herbal infusion!
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Spices
Spices for Tea
Spices can elevate the humble cup of tea into a symphony of flavors and aromas. They are an excellent way to enhance not only the taste but also the health benefits of your brew. Here are some popular spices to consider when crafting your perfect cup:
Cinnamon: Known for its warm, sweet notes, cinnamon pairs beautifully with both black and herbal teas. It's also touted for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to help regulate blood sugar levels.
Ginger: With its zesty, peppery flavor, ginger adds a refreshing kick to tea. It is well-known for its digestive benefits and can help relieve nausea and improve circulation.
Cardamom: This aromatic spice has a unique sweet and spicy profile. It's commonly used in chai tea and is believed to aid digestion and improve oral health.
Cloves: With their strong, warm, and slightly sweet flavor, cloves can add depth to your tea. They are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.
Black Pepper: A surprising addition, black pepper can give your tea an unexpected warmth. It can enhance the absorption of other beneficial compounds, such as turmeric.
Nutmeg: Just a pinch of nutmeg can add a comforting, nutty aroma to your tea. It's also known for its calming effects and may help with sleep.
Star Anise: This star-shaped spice has a sweet, licorice-like flavor. It's often used in herbal teas and is believed to have antimicrobial properties.
Experimenting with these spices can lead to delightful combinations that suit your personal taste. Whether you're looking for warmth in the winter or a refreshing twist during summer, these spices offer a wonderful way to enjoy your favorite teas.
Wild River Teas
Custom tea blends can be made to order. You can schedule a time to discuss or email your needs to info@wildriverbodycare.com. We look forward to making you the perfect blend!
