Mint and Lemon Tea: Properties and How to Prepare It

When brewed together, mint and lemon balance herbal and tart flavors; adjust the amounts to taste. That is why mint and lemon tea is often enjoyed after a heavy meal. How should the tea be brewed?Steep fresh mint leaves in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes; steeping them longer can make the tea overly sharp. Add lemon juice after the tea has brewed and cooled a little, since adding it to boiling water can cause some of its vitamin C to be lost. If using dried mint, shorten the steeping time a little; dried mint has a stronger aroma than fresh mint, so 3 to 4 minutes is enough. What else can be added?Honey is the most common sweetener for mint and lemon tea; its mild sweetness balances mint's cooling notes and lemon's tartness. If adding honey, let the tea cool a little first, since honey added to hot tea can lose some of its aroma. Fresh ginger is another option; thinly sliced ginger added with the mint and lemon gives the tea extra warmth and sharpness. This trio is especially popular in winter. How is mint and lemon tea prepared?Steep mint and lemon in hot water to make a fragrant, tart drink; it can be served warm. The acid in lemon increases saliva production, which may contribute indirectly to digestion. Adjust the amount of mint to suit the desired herbal flavor. How can it be served cold?Mint and lemon tea can also be enjoyed cold in summer; after brewing and cooling to room temperature, leave it in the refrigerator for a few hours, then serve it over ice. For a cold version, adding a little more lemon instead of honey strengthens its refreshing quality. Fresh cucumber slices are another common addition when serving it cold; cucumber's mild taste adds to the refreshing quality of mint and lemon. When should it be consumed with care?Views differ on drinking mint tea during pregnancy; some sources say excessive amounts are not recommended. Pregnant or breastfeeding people are therefore advised to limit the amount and consult a doctor if they have concerns. Brewing time and ingredient amounts can be adjusted to the desired strength. Steeping the tea with a lid on helps preserve its aroma, and tea steeped with a lid develops a more intense flavor. Brewing it in a glass cup can help retain the steam and lets you see the tea's color.