Lavender 'n' Lemon Tisane

Lavender season is here. The fragrance and beauty of the lavender bud brings delight to the heart! It's time to preserve lavender so it can be enjoyed year around! Naturally dried lavender from a home garden make a great addition to recipes like tomato sauce, breads, and cookies. And it also makes a delightful tisanes. 

Here's a recipe for Lavender 'n' Lemon Tisane that is sure to bring comfort and joy during the warmest days of summer or the coldest winter months.

• 1 cup lemon verbena, dried and crumbled
• 1 cup lemon balm, dried
• 1/3 cup lavender bud, dried
• 1/2 cup chamomile, dried

Blend ingredients together in a small bowl. When well mixed, transfer to a pint jar and seal with a lid. Tie jar with a raffia or satin bow. Include a handmade gift tag that has these instructions:

To brew tisane:  Use 1 1/2 tsp. per 8 ounces of boiling water. Steep for 5 minutes. Then strain. Sweeten with honey or stevia. Enjoy!

If you prefer a more full-bodied tea, you can add loose leaf black tea to the ingredient mix. You may want to steep less time with this addition. Or instead, replace the chamomile with your favorite green tea. The possibilities are endless!