Recharge and regenerate with home-grown herbal brews

A summer lunch is incomplete without a large jug of iced tea. While the traditional lemon version is scrumptious, why not try some healthy, home-grown flavours?

Chamomile

This sweet-scented herb is well known for its relaxing properties. Taken orally, it helps ease tension and colic, encourages a good night’s sleep and digestion, and relieves nausea.

Growing

Chamomile likes a sunny spot (but adapts to partial shade) and light, well-drained, moist soil. Sow seeds in autumn, but do not cover, as they need light to germinate. Keep well watered during dry weather.

Hibiscus

Hibiscus flowers provide a showy display. With a tart, fruity flavour, they have an almost citrus-like after taste — unsurprising, as they are high in vitamin C and antioxidants. Hibiscus boost the immune system and protect against cellular damage. They improve blood flow and circulation, strengthening blood vessels and reducing high blood pressure.

Growing

Hibiscus are frost tender and need a sheltered position in full sun, with moist, rich, well-drained soil. They come in a range of tropical colours, from pink to scarlet, and flower almost all summer long.

Nettle

Nettle leaves and flowers are rich in vitamins and minerals. Nettle is a gentle diuretic and liver cleanser, ridding the body of toxins. It also stimulates the lymphatic system, helping to cleanse the kidneys. With a fresh, “green” taste, it pairs well with peppermint and chamomile.

Growing

Nettles grow in any soil and prefer semi-shade. They spread easily and can become invasive if not cut back regularly. In late autumn, cut the plants to the ground and mulch lightly.

Holy basil

A member of the mint family, holy basil has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. High in antioxidants, it’s an effective adaptogenic herb, helping balance the body and strengthen the immune system. It has a peppery flavour, adding a spicy touch to a brew.

Growing

Full sun and fertile, well-drained soil will ensure it grows into a large, bushy plant with plenty of aromatic leaves. In warmer areas it grows as a perennial, but in frost areas it must be protected.

Roses

Rose petals are cooling for the body, with plenty of vitamin C. Strong-scented ones add a blissful fragrance to an iced tea. Make sure no toxic pesticides have been used.

Growing

Climbing roses do well on archways at the entrance to vegetable gardens as they attract beneficial insects. If you plan to combine them with beans or cucumbers, choose a smaller rose such as My Granny. Garlic and chives are good companions to roses, protecting them from aphids.  

The basic brew

You can use fresh herbs, but rather dry them and store in an airtight container to use year-round.

• Add 1 litre of boiling water to four tea bags in a large jug and leave to steep for 5 minutes.
• Remove the tea bags. Add 12 teaspoons of dried herbs, cover and leave to steep overnight.
• Strain and sweeten to taste with honey.
• Keep refrigerated and serve with ice, fresh herbs and sliced lemon.

Jane’s Delicious A-Z of Herbs. Jane Griffiths. Sunbird Publishers www.janesdeliciousshop.co.za