Advertisement

Looking for a valerian tea recipe? Want to use valerian root to make a relaxing sleepy tea? Author of The Garden Apothecary, Christine Iverson, says: "I’ve used dried herbs in this tea mixture mainly because you can make up a batch and it will keep for longer. Try to source organic herbs from a reputable supplier; the quality can sometimes be lacking if you go for the cheapest option."

Ingredients

  • 25g dried valerian root (sedative)
  • 50g dried lemon balm (eases stress)
  • 25g dried passion flower (helps the brain to switch off)
  • 25g dried rose petals (mild sedative)
  • 25g dried hop flowers (for insomnia)
  • 25g dried lemongrass (for restful sleep)

Method

  • STEP 1

    Mix all the herbs together well. Store in an airtight jar in a cool, dry place.

  • STEP 2

    Use one heaped tablespoon to a cup of boiling water. Place the herbs in a tea infuser ball or small teapot.

  • STEP 3

    Allow to steep for 5 minutes. Discard the herbs.

  • STEP 4

    Sweeten to taste with honey or a vegan alternative and drink 30 minutes before bedtime. Keeps for 1 year.

Note: This can be quite soporific; don’t use before driving or operating machinery. Valerian should not be consumed during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

This recipe comes from The Garden Apothecary: Recipes, Remedies and Rituals (Summersdale, £11.29). The recipe has not been retested by us.

Authors

Christine Iverson is the author of The Hedgerow Apothecary and The Garden Apothecary (both published by Summersdale Publishers).

Advertisement

Comments, questions and tips

Rate this recipe

What is your star rating out of 5?

Choose the type of message you'd like to post

Choose the type of message you'd like to post

Overall rating

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement