Perilla Leaf, Lemon and Honey Tea

Why people make this tea

Perilla leaf is a workhorse in Chinese kitchens — traditionally used to disperse cold, regulate the qi, and counter the “toxins” of fish and crab, which is why it turns up with seafood. Brewed as a tea it is gentle enough that it is traditionally considered suitable during pregnancy, where it is associated with a settling, calming effect on mood. Paired with fresh lemon and honey, it becomes a fragrant, soothing cup for stress and tension.

Method

1. Put the perilla leaf in a teapot and rinse once with boiling water.
2. Add the fresh lemon slices, then pour in boiling water.
3. Cover and steep for 5 minutes, then stir in honey to taste.

Nourilo’s Tips

This tea is fragrant and fine for all ages. It also helps with the early stages of a wind-cold chill — blocked nose, headache, cough — and you can keep re-steeping it until it runs light.