Welcome to Naturally Curious, our new monthly nutrition tip from Arthritis New Zealand medical herbalist and registered pharmacist Linda Caddick.
Each month, Linda will share a simple food, herb or nutrition idea to try at home, along with a little about how it has traditionally been used.
This month, Linda is starting with something perfect for a cooler evening – a warming herbal tea to enjoy as part of your wind-down routine before bed.
Linda’s calming cuppa
You will need
- 1 teaspoon chamomile tea
- 1 teaspoon food-grade dried rose petals
- ½ teaspoon dried lavender
- 1 cup freshly boiled water
- A little honey, if you like it sweet
How to make it
Add the chamomile, rose petals and lavender to a teapot or tea infuser.
Pour over one cup of water that has just come off the boil.
Leave it to steep for at least 5 minutes. If you’re making it directly in a cup, Linda recommends covering the cup with a saucer while the tea steeps.
Add a little honey if you’d like some sweetness, then find a comfortable spot and enjoy.
A little about the herbs
Chamomile has a long history of traditional use for relaxation, sleep and digestive comfort.
Rose has been used in many cultures for its fragrance and as a calming and uplifting herb.
Lavender is probably best known for its distinctive scent and has a long history of traditional use for relaxation and sleep. A little goes a long way in tea, so Linda recommends using just half a teaspoon of dried lavender.
Need support?
Email or call the Arthritis Assist team on 0800 663 463, or fill in your details and leave us a message through this link: Contact us.
