The Creative Art of Sun Tea

Summer is almost upon us! The Summer Solstice, or Midsummer, is when the sun reaches its zenith across the sky. Midsummer holds deep rooted significance in myth, as it marks a time of nature’s abundance and vitality. It’s as if the sun itself invites us to partake in her radiance.

What better way to celebrate than with a refreshing herbal Sun Tea creatively designed by you, brewed under the enchanting energy of the closest star in our sky.

Harnessing the Sun for an Herbal Symphony

In our fast-paced lives, self-care rituals, whatever that looks like for you, are essential for rejuvenation and well-being. The act of brewing sun tea is not only a celebration of summer but also a gentle reminder to pause, connect with nature, and embrace the art of self-care. It is a time to slow down, appreciate nature’s herbal bounty, and allow plant wisdom to nurture our bodies.

Sun tea, with its gentle infusion process, captures the essence of plant ingredients. Herbal teas contribute polyphenols, which are antioxidative compounds that may provide health benefits such as reducing inflammation or protect against certain diseases. This simple and charming method of brewing enhances flavours and releases therapeutic properties of various teas and herbs. There is nothing better than sitting back on a hot day and appreciating our herbal allies in a tasty, refreshing concoction of your own creation.

Magic lies in the creative process 

When choosing herbs for your sun tea, let intuition guide you.

Coming up with a new tea blend can be a fun and creative process, especially when incorporated with self-guided herbal learning.

Familiarize yourself with different flavour profiles such as sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami. Learn how these flavours interact with each other and how they can complement or contrast one another.

Think about tastes that naturally go well together. For example, pairing sweet and tart flavours like strawberries and lemon. Similarly, contrasting flavours create balance and excitement: chilli and frozen mango might be an interesting addition, or cacao nibs for a creamy, chocolatey brew.

Seek Inspiration from Nature

Look to nature for inspiration. Consider what occurs naturally in fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices. For instance, mint and watermelon is a classic summer pairing!

Don't be afraid to experiment and try different combinations. Sometimes unexpected pairings can create delightful results.

Remember, your custom Sun Tea blending is an art, and there are no strict rules. Be open to experimentation, trust your taste buds, and have fun exploring new combinations.

Follow any one of these three simple base recipes

As desired, adjust ingredients and quantities to taste. Remember, this is your time to be creative! Choose herbs which resonate as healthful and flavourful. Here are some ideas to get started:  

1. Chamomile: Soothing, tranquil, floral, and delicately citrusy. 
2. Lemon Balm: Fragrant, citrusy, and gently green. Uplifting and vivacious.
3. Mint: Refreshing and invigorating, mint is a cool classic.
4. Lavender: Made of purple dreams, lavender lends a distinct floral essence to sun tea. Helps promote restful sleep, ease anxiety, and create a serene ambiance.
5. Hibiscus: Known for its vibrant ruby hue, hibiscus adds a burst of colour and a tangy, fruit, utterly yummy flavour.

Sun-Kissed Black Tea
Ingredients:

• 4 cups water
• 4 tablespoons Breakfast Assam or Creamy Earl Grey tea
• 1 fresh lemon, sliced
• 2 tablespoons of honey (or to taste)
  
  

Directions: Place tea and lemon slices in a glass jar. Fill the jar with water, ensuring the tea is fully submerged. Set the jar in a sunny spot for 3-4 hours, allowing the sun's warmth to steep the tea. Strain and stir in honey for a touch of sweetness. Serve over ice and revel in the deep, bold flavours of this energising beverage!

Suggestions for alterations: Cardamom, cinnamon, or anise adds a warming spice. Fresh peaches or plums are iconic to the season!

Serene Green Tea Symphony
Ingredients:

• 4 cups of water
• 4 tablespoons Green Sencha or Jasmine Rose tea
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, thinly sliced
• Fresh mint leaves
• 1 teaspoon of raw honey (optional)
  
  

Directions: Place all ingredients in a glass jar. Fill the jar with water, ensuring ingredients are fully submerged. Set the jar in a sunny spot for 3-4 hours. Do a happy dance. Strain and stir in honey or sweetener of choice. Pour over ice and garnish with additional fresh mint. Sip slowly and enjoy the calming, uplifting harmony of this sun-infused green tea.

Suggestions: Try matcha for a particularly nutritious boost, or garnishing with cold, crisp apples. Some might enjoy the subtle nuttiness of toasted rice for an earthy profile.

Nurturing Herbal Bliss
Ingredients:

• 4 cups of water
• 4 tablespoons of caffeine-free herbal tea such as Cranberry Harvest or Chill Out Tea
• Fresh berries or citrus slices
• A drizzle of agave nectar (optional)
  
  

Instructions: Select your favourite non-caffeinated herbal tea blend and add to a glass jar. Fill with water. Steep on a sunny countertop or windowsill for 3-4 hours, allowing the herbs to release their soothing essence. Strain tea leaves and add fresh fruit for a burst of extra flavour. If desired, drizzle a touch of agave nectar for a subtle sweetness. 

Sip and Celebrate!

Remember, these recipes are simply a baseline to follow. While great on their own, you can customise the blend however you like. Prefer less sweet? Dial back on the honey. Want a pop of colour, or a spicy twist? Try Butterfly Pea Flower, or even a smidge of dried chile, or cacao nibs!

And remember, our wellness specialists are available in-store and online to answer your herbal wellness questions!
 

This summer, pour yourself a glass of sun tea and raise it high in celebration. Feel the warm embrace of the sun's energy, indulging in the delicate flavours and the nourishing benefits of your very own seasonal elixir.

Cheers to the Summer Solstice and the celestial dance that inspires us all!