Lavender & European Mint Tea with Honey

Why people make this tea

A friend gave Nourilo a bottle of lavender essential oil, and a few drops on the pillow made it noticeably easier to fall asleep. That prompted this tea — a gentle herbal brew that brings together the relaxing properties of lavender with the clear-headed freshness of European peppermint. In Chinese food therapy, peppermint is associated with dispersing wind-heat, clearing the head, and relieving the liver’s stagnation of energy — the pattern behind anxious, frustrated feelings and tension headaches. Lavender adds a calming, nerve-soothing effect long recognised in both Western herbalism and Chinese wellness practice. Together, a small cup of this tea after a stressful day can feel quietly restorative.

Method

1. Place the lavender flowers and peppermint leaves in a teapot or infuser cup.
2. Pour in freshly boiled water (slightly cooled — around 85–90°C is ideal to preserve the aromatic compounds).
3. Steep for 5 minutes.
4. Strain into a cup.
5. Allow to cool slightly, then stir in honey to taste.
6. Drink warm and slowly.

Nourilo’s Tips

European peppermint (grown in Europe) has a more intensely fragrant and complex scent than regular Chinese mint; its leaves are also more delicate and crumble easily. Regular peppermint or spearmint can be substituted if the European variety is unavailable — the tea will be milder but still pleasant. Do not use too much of either herb; the flavour is concentrated and a little goes a long way. This tea is a nice way to unwind after dinner or during a stressful evening — but do not drink too close to bedtime if you are sensitive to any herb. Pregnant women should skip this tea entirely.