Medicinal Teas

Thyme Tea

Purpose:  antispasmodic, antimicrobial, expectorant, relieves gas, astringent, relaxant and stimulant, antioxidant.

Vitamins: A, D, niacin, phosphorous, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc.

Ingredients: 

  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme
  • Honey

Directions:

  • Boil water
  • Remove from heat
  • Pour over thyme
  • Cover and steep 20 minutes
  • Add honey to taste (increases effectiveness)

Contraindications: not for children under age 3, do not use if you have thyroid problems, are pregnant or have high blood pressure.

 

Peppermint Tea

Purpose:  stimulates bile, enhances digestive activity, relieves gas and abdominal pain, relieves nausea and vomiting, anti-spasmodic, antiseptic, analgesic, nervine, muscle relaxant.

Vitamins: calcium, A, C, riboflavin

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 teaspoon dried peppermint or 1 tablespoon of fresh peppermint

Directions:  Pour boiling water over the peppermint.  Cover and steep for 20 minutes.

Contraindications:  Don't give to babies or small children.  Those with anemia should use cautiously as it may inhibit the absorption of iron.

 

Four Thieve's Vinegar

Four Thieve's Vinegar is supposedly what the thieves drank to protect themselves from the Black Plague.
 
Ingredients:
7g (1/4 oz each) of the following:
  • calamus root
  • cinnamon
  • ground nutmeg
  • lavender
  • mint
  • rosemary
  • rue
  • sage
  • wormwood
  • 2 minced heads of garlic
  • 2 pt of cider vinegar
 
Directions:
  • Add ingredients to a clean glass jar.
  • Cover and keep warm for 5 days.
  • Strain and add 7g (1/4 oz) of powdered camphor before bottling.
This recipe comes from Honey, Garlic & Vinegar Home Remedies and Recipes by Dr. Patrick Quillin.