Summertime Herbal Infusion

A soothing, remineralizing, and cooling tea blend for August.

Want to know a little secret for replenishing a frazzled nervous system? How about naturally glowy skin? Supported immune functioning?

Try adding herbal infusions as part of your daily water consumption! This is my favourite way to incorporate the benefits of herbs into my routine—probably because it’s easy and doesn’t require a lot of time to prepare. I’ve been making a version of this blend (depending on the season and my current rhythm) for the past decade and whenever I’m consistent with it, I notice the difference.

While herbal teas are typically plants brewed in hot water for 5-10 minutes, herbal infusions involve a longer steep time (4-10 hours) and offer a gentle and more potent extraction of the plant materials¹. Infusions activate and extract the vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and antioxidants into a bio-available form for us to easily absorb. They have been prepared and consumed for as long as people and plants have interacted—offering a simple way to connect with the generous benefits of herbs.

This recipe uses dried herbs which are both shelf stable and easily available (at your local apothecary or online). Organic is best when working with herbs because we don’t want to extract anything but the good stuff. Look for dried herbs with rich colours—this tells you they were harvested with care, have a high nutrient content, and remain fresh!

I’ve selected six superstars for this vibrant summertime infusion:

The Herbals

Nettle Leaf (2 tbsp) - Packed with vitamins A, B, and C, potassium, iron, chlorophyll, and silica—this plant nourishes on a cellular level. Nettle also helps to remove stagnation (mentally and physically) and restore depletion—my personal favourite from the plant kingdom.²

Oat Straw (2 tbsp) - I once heard a herbalist say: “If we could just steep oats in public drinking water, the world would be a better place.” This gentle healer restores frazzled nervous systems and replenishes those who are depleted, distracted, and anxious.³

Red Clover Flowers (2 tbsp) - Brimming with beauty—a siren song for the bees. This mystical plant is often seen as a weed growing on your front lawn, but it’s known to help promote radiant skin, clear lymphatic congestion, and add a deliciously sweet flavour.

Peppermint Leaf (1-2 tbsp) - The ultimate refresher. A cooling and uplifting herb that helps protect the immune system, ease digestion, and calm the mind. Great for hot days or when you ate a little too much at dinner.

Goji Berry (1 tbsp) - The antioxidant and beta carotene powerhouse. These gorgeous little drops support the immune system, promote healthy skin, and provide a sense of calm for those with anxiety. A very happy berry, indeed.

Seaweed (1 tsp) - Another multi-vitamin wizard, seaweed contains the skin loving vitamins A, C, E, and K, along with folate, zinc, sodium, calcium, and magnesium. This ingredient is optional (but adds a lovely touch!).

The Overnight Steep

• Place all herbs in a large glass mason jar (using the measurements above).

• Boil water and pour over the herbs to fill the jar. Cover with a lid or cloth towel and let steep overnight on the counter (at least four hours).

• Strain the herbs and put in the fridge with a tight lid. Consume within 1-2 days.

It’s that simple! This blend is really tasty on its own with the goji berry, red clover, and peppermint combo. I’ve even noticed Scott hitting the fridge to pour himself a glass whenever I make this. If you want something a little sweeter, try adding honey to the mix after you’ve strained the herbs (before it cools in the fridge). Then sip throughout the day, serve over ice, and feel free to warm it on the stove if you’re in a cooler climate.

Cheers to hydration and plant magic!

P.S. More recipes from the archive:

Sunshine Toast
A Simple Nettle Soup
Quiet Luxury Granola

Mason jar and water glass images from paintings by Mark Adams.

1. I completed the Home Herbalist program at Pacific Rim College. The information in this post was attained through my coursework and personal studies.

* If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any health concerns: please consult your health care provider before taking new supplements.

2. Yes, I’m talking about stinging nettle. Don’t worry, the sting is neutralized by cooking or drying—making this wise and vibrant creature perfect for teas, herbal infusions, soups, and pesto!

3. Oats are the almighty healer—strengthening hair, skin, and nails to boot!