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1 teaspoon dried peppermint leaves (or 5–6 fresh leaves)
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1 teaspoon fennel seeds
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1/2 teaspoon dried chamomile flowers (optional for relaxation)
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1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (or 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger)
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1 teaspoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
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1 teaspoon raw honey (optional, for sweetness)
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2 cups water
Preparation:
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Boil the water in a small pot or kettle.
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Once boiling, add fennel seeds and grated ginger. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
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Turn off the heat and add peppermint leaves and chamomile flowers (if using).
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Cover and let the mixture steep for 5–7 minutes.
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Strain the tea into your favorite cup.
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Stir in lemon juice and honey (if desired) before serving.
Serving and Storage Tips:
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Best served warm, especially after meals to promote digestion.
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You can store the strained tea in the fridge for up to 24 hours and gently reheat before drinking.
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Make a larger batch and store in a thermos for sipping throughout the day.
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Avoid adding milk, as it may reduce the effectiveness of the herbal compounds.
Variants:
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For extra relaxation: Add lavender flowers or increase the chamomile amount.
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For metabolism boost: Include a dash of cinnamon or turmeric.
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For immunity support: Add a slice of lemon peel and a few fresh thyme sprigs.
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Caffeine-free chai version: Add cardamom pods and a pinch of clove for a spiced flavor.
FAQ:
Q1: How often should I drink this tea?
1–2 cups daily is ideal, especially after meals or before bedtime.
Q2: Can I drink it on an empty stomach?
Yes, especially in the morning—it helps stimulate digestion and awaken your metabolism.
Q3: Is it safe for kids?
Yes, but reduce the ginger and avoid honey for children under 1 year old.
Q4: Can I use tea bags instead of loose herbs?
You can, but fresh or loose ingredients offer stronger flavor and better benefits.
Q5: Does this help with bloating and gas?
Absolutely. Fennel and peppermint are both renowned for their gas-relieving and antispasmodic properties.