5 Homemade Herbal Tea Blends for Cold & Flu Season
5 Homemade Herbal Tea Blends for Cold & Flu Season
From fragrant mountain herbs to warming winter spices, discover five unique loose-leaf tea recipes for the colder months.
This blog post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
When cold and flu season rolls around, I find myself reaching for the tea kettle a little more often. I love a warm cup of herbal tea, especially on those chilly mornings when the house is quiet and the weather makes you want to stay indoors.
I've always enjoyed working with herbs in the kitchen, whether I'm growing them in the garden, drying them for later use, or experimenting with different ways to bring their flavors into everyday recipes.
Herbal teas are another wonderful way to enjoy those ingredients. From the fragrant mountain herbs of Greece to the warming spices found in traditional tea preparations around the world, there is an incredible variety of flavors waiting to be explored.
For generations, people have prepared herbal infusions using ingredients such as thyme, ginger, elderflower, chamomile, sage, and licorice root. Many of these herbs have a long history in traditional seasonal wellness practices, although traditional use does not necessarily mean their health benefits have been scientifically established.
For this collection, I've put together five original loose-leaf tea recipes inspired by those traditions. Some are fruity and floral, others are naturally sweet and warmly spiced, and two feature the savory garden herbs I especially enjoy during the colder months.
These recipes are intended as flavorful, comforting beverages rather than treatments for colds or flu. They're also starting formulations that can be adjusted to suit your taste. So, gather your favorite teapot, supplies, find a comfortable chair, and let's explore a few new additions to the winter herbal pantry.
One of my favorite ways to brew loose-leaf tea is with a French press. I usually want more than one cup, and a French press makes it easy to brew a generous batch and serve it without having to fuss with individual tea infusers. But what I really love is watching the herbs come to life behind the glass. The delicate flowers unfold, the leaves swirl and dance, and all those beautiful colors mingle together as the tea steeps. It's like having a little botanical show right on my kitchen counter, and I get a wonderful cup of tea when it's over!
A Little About Herbal Teas and Traditional Winter Ingredients
Unlike traditional black and green teas, which come from the Camellia sinensis plant, most herbal teas are infusions made from dried flowers, leaves, roots, fruits, seeds, and spices.
Many are naturally caffeine-free, making them a pleasant option throughout the day or in the evening.
The flavors can be surprisingly complex. Roots such as ginger and licorice contribute warmth and sweetness, while flowers like chamomile and elderflower bring softer aromatic notes. Dried fruits and citrus peels introduce brightness, and familiar culinary herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and sage can add an earthy, savory dimension.
One of the things I appreciate about making loose-leaf teas is the opportunity to combine these ingredients into something a little more interesting than a single-herb infusion.
The following five blends are designed with that idea in mind.
1. Winterberry & Elderflower Spice Tea
A fruity, floral winter infusion with warming spices and a naturally sweet finish.
This colorful blend brings together the tartness of hibiscus and rosehips, the delicate floral aroma of elderflower, and the comforting flavors of cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom.
Dried apple and orange peel help round out the fruit flavors, while a small amount of licorice root contributes sweetness without adding sugar.
Ingredients
2 teaspoons dried elderflowers
2 teaspoons dried apple pieces
2 teaspoons dried hibiscus petals
1 teaspoon crushed dried rosehips
1 teaspoon dried orange peel
1 teaspoon cinnamon chips
½ teaspoon dried ginger pieces
¼ teaspoon cut licorice root
¼ teaspoon lightly crushed cardamom seeds
Instructions
Combine all the dried ingredients in a small bowl.
Gently mix to distribute the flowers, fruits, and spices.
Transfer to a clean, airtight glass jar until ready to brew.
For a cup of tea, start with 1 level tablespoon of the blend per 8 ounces of freshly boiled water.
Cover and steep for 10–12 minutes.
Strain and serve warm.
Flavor profile: Tart berry notes, delicate florals, citrus, and warming spice, followed by a mild natural sweetness.
From the Herbal Pantry: Elderflower has a long history in European herbal traditions, while rosehips have been used in fruit infusions for generations. Hibiscus is valued in many culinary traditions for its vibrant color and tart flavor.
Fig Hollow Farm Tip: If you prefer a less tart tea, reduce the hibiscus slightly and increase the dried apple. A small spoonful of honey can also complement the fruit flavors.
2. Sweet Garden Meadow Tea
A refreshing blend of garden herbs, delicate flowers, and naturally sweet roots.
This recipe combines some of my favorite garden-inspired flavors. Spearmint provides a refreshing foundation, lemon balm and lemongrass bring citrus notes, and chamomile softens the blend with its gentle floral character.
Thyme adds a subtle savory element, while fennel and licorice root create a naturally sweet finish.
Ingredients
2 teaspoons dried lemon balm
2 teaspoons dried spearmint
1 teaspoon dried chamomile flowers
1 teaspoon dried lemongrass
½ teaspoon dried culinary thyme
½ teaspoon dried lemon peel
½ teaspoon lightly crushed fennel seeds
¼ teaspoon cut licorice root
¼ teaspoon dried rose petals
Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a small bowl.
Mix gently to avoid crushing the delicate flowers and leaves.
Store in a clean, airtight jar away from heat and direct sunlight.
To prepare, use 1 level tablespoon of the blend per 8 ounces of hot water.
Cover and steep for 7–10 minutes.
Strain and enjoy.
Flavor profile: Fresh mint, bright citrus, delicate floral notes, and a lightly sweet herbal finish.
From the Herbal Pantry: Mint, lemon balm, fennel, and thyme have appeared in traditional European herbal preparations for centuries. Their combination creates an interesting balance between refreshing and savory flavors.
Fig Hollow Farm Tip: For a stronger mint flavor, increase the spearmint slightly. If you prefer a softer, more floral tea, add a little extra chamomile.
3. Fireside Vanilla Chai
A rich, aromatic herbal chai with vanilla, warming spices, and naturally mellow rooibos.
Not every chai needs to begin with black tea. Rooibos and honeybush are naturally caffeine-free herbal ingredients that provide a wonderfully mellow foundation for warming spices.
In this blend, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, fennel, and star anise create a fragrant combination, while dried apple and orange peel contribute subtle fruit notes.
Vanilla brings everything together with a soft, dessert-like aroma.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon rooibos
2 teaspoons honeybush
2 teaspoons dried apple pieces
1 teaspoon cinnamon chips
1 teaspoon dried ginger pieces
½ teaspoon dried orange peel
¼ teaspoon lightly crushed cardamom seeds
¼ teaspoon lightly crushed fennel seeds
¼ teaspoon finely chopped vanilla bean
1 small piece of culinary star anise
Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a small mixing bowl.
Stir thoroughly to distribute the spices.
Transfer to an airtight glass jar.
Use approximately 1 level tablespoon of the blend per 8 ounces of water.
Bring the water to a gentle simmer, add the tea blend, and simmer covered for 5 minutes.
Remove from the heat and allow to steep for another 5–7 minutes.
Strain and serve.
Flavor profile: Rich vanilla, warm cinnamon, fragrant cardamom, and subtle notes of apple and orange.
From the Herbal Pantry: Rooibos and honeybush are native to South Africa and have become popular caffeine-free alternatives to conventional tea. Their naturally mellow flavors pair beautifully with the warming spices commonly used in chai.
Fig Hollow Farm Tip: This is one of the blends I would consider serving with a splash of warm milk or your favorite milk alternative. It would make a lovely evening chai latte.
4. Greek Mountain & Wild Thyme Tea
A Mediterranean-inspired herbal infusion featuring Greek mountain tea, fragrant thyme, sage, and lemon.
Greek mountain tea has been enjoyed for generations throughout Greece and other parts of the Mediterranean and Balkan regions.
Often called Tsai tou vounou, or tea of the mountain, it is traditionally prepared using the dried stems, leaves, and flowers of plants from the Sideritis genus.
Its flavor is pleasantly earthy, lightly floral, and somewhat reminiscent of sage, although generally more delicate.
For this blend, I wanted to build on that character by adding thyme, lemon verbena, and a touch of sage. Elderflower provides a softer floral note, while fennel and licorice root contribute a gentle sweetness.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons dried Greek mountain tea (Sideritis), cut leaves and flowering stems
2 teaspoons dried lemon verbena
1 teaspoon dried culinary thyme
1 teaspoon dried lemon balm
1 teaspoon dried elderflowers
½ teaspoon dried culinary sage
½ teaspoon dried lemon peel
¼ teaspoon lightly crushed fennel seeds
¼ teaspoon cut licorice root
Instructions
If the Greek mountain tea contains long stems, cut them into smaller pieces suitable for blending.
Combine the mountain tea with the remaining herbs, flowers, and roots.
Gently toss until evenly distributed.
Store in an airtight container away from heat and moisture.
For one serving, use approximately 1 level tablespoon of the blend per 8 ounces of freshly boiled water.
Cover and steep for 8–10 minutes.
Strain and serve warm.
Flavor profile: Earthy and herbaceous, with gentle floral notes, bright lemon, and a naturally sweet finish.
A Closer Look at Greek Mountain Tea
Greek mountain tea is especially interesting because it is quite different from the teas many of us are accustomed to drinking.
The dried flowering stems of Sideritis produce an infusion with a distinctive Mediterranean character. It is often enjoyed with lemon and honey and has a longstanding place in traditional Greek herbal culture.
Historically, Greek mountain tea has also been associated with seasonal wellness practices, including traditional use during the colder months. These traditions are part of its cultural history, rather than proof that the tea prevents or treats illness.
When shopping for Greek mountain tea, look for a reputable supplier that identifies the Sideritis species and offers dried plant material intended for brewing.
Fig Hollow Farm Tip: A thin slice of fresh lemon makes a lovely addition to this tea. I would try it without sweetener first, since the fennel and licorice already contribute some sweetness.
5. Rosemary, Sage & Thyme Winter Tea
A bold, savory garden tea with aromatic herbs, citrus, ginger, and a touch of natural sweetness.
If you enjoy the fragrance of fresh herbs in the kitchen, this is a tea worth exploring.
Thyme, rosemary, and sage are some of the most recognizable herbs in Mediterranean cooking, but they can also create a surprisingly interesting herbal infusion when carefully balanced with other ingredients.
For this recipe, thyme is the primary savory herb. Rosemary contributes its distinctive woodsy aroma, while sage adds an earthy character.
Dried apple, orange peel, spearmint, and ginger help soften the stronger herbal notes, and a little coriander brings a subtle citrus quality.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon dried lemon balm
2 teaspoons dried culinary thyme
1 tablespoon dried apple pieces
1½ teaspoons dried spearmint
1 teaspoon dried ginger pieces
1 teaspoon dried orange peel
¼ teaspoon dried culinary rosemary
½ teaspoon dried culinary sage
½ teaspoon lightly crushed coriander seeds
¼ teaspoon cut licorice root
Instructions
Combine all dried ingredients in a small mixing bowl.
Stir gently to distribute the herbs, fruits, and spices.
Transfer to an airtight glass jar.
For one cup, begin with 1 level tablespoon of the blend per 8 ounces of freshly boiled water.
Cover and steep for 8–10 minutes.
Strain and enjoy while warm.
Flavor profile: Savory thyme, fragrant rosemary, earthy sage, bright citrus, and gentle sweetness.
From the Herbal Pantry: Thyme, rosemary, and sage have long histories in Mediterranean culinary and herbal traditions. While they are often associated with traditional seasonal preparations, this particular blend is designed for its aromatic qualities and distinctive flavor.
Fig Hollow Farm Tip: I would begin with the rosemary exactly as measured. It is a powerful herb, and a little goes a long way. If you enjoy a stronger thyme flavor, you can increase the thyme slightly in your next batch.
Tips for Making Your Own Loose-Leaf Herbal Tea Blends
Making herbal teas at home is relatively simple, but a few small details can make a noticeable difference in the finished cup.
Choose Good-Quality Ingredients
Start with dried herbs, roots, flowers, and fruits that are clearly identified and intended for culinary use.
Whenever possible, purchase ingredients from suppliers that provide the botanical name, plant part, and appropriate preparation information.
Avoid using decorative dried flowers or plant materials that have not been prepared for consumption.
Pay Attention to the Size of Your Ingredients
For loose-leaf blends, I prefer herbs and roots that have been cut into manageable pieces rather than ground into fine powders.
Finely powdered ingredients can make tea cloudy and difficult to strain. Larger pieces are generally easier to handle and can make a more attractive blend.
Try to keep the ingredients reasonably consistent in size so they distribute more evenly throughout the jar.
Don't Forget to Cover Your Tea While Steeping
I recommend covering herbal teas while they steep, especially when using aromatic ingredients such as peppermint, lemon balm, thyme, rosemary, and citrus peel.
Covering the cup helps retain heat and some of the fragrant volatile compounds that contribute to the tea's aroma.
Adjust the Strength to Your Taste
The recipes in this collection are starting points for exploring different herbal flavor combinations.
Some people enjoy a bold, concentrated herbal tea, while others prefer something lighter.
Begin with the recommended amounts, then adjust the brewing time or quantity of tea in future batches according to your preferences.
Because the blends contain different combinations of leaves, flowers, fruits, roots, and spices, the strength of the finished tea may vary depending on the cut and quality of the ingredients.
Store Your Blends Properly
Store dried herbal teas in clean, airtight containers away from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat.
Label each jar with the blend name, ingredients, and date it was prepared.
For the best flavor, make modest batches and use them while their aromas remain fresh. Follow supplier storage guidance and discard any ingredients that develop moisture, mold, or an unusual odor.
A Note About Herbal Tea Safety
Herbal Tea & Wellness Disclaimer
The recipes and information provided by Fig Hollow Farm are intended for culinary, educational, and general informational purposes only. They are not medical advice and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any illness, including colds or influenza.
Although many herbs have long histories of traditional use, that history does not establish the effectiveness or safety of a particular homemade blend.
Herbs can cause allergic reactions, interact with medications, or be unsuitable for certain individuals. This is particularly important for those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, managing medical conditions, or preparing herbal teas for children.
Important note about licorice root: Several blends in this collection contain licorice root, which can affect blood pressure, potassium levels, and heart rhythm, particularly with repeated consumption. It may interact with medications and should be avoided during pregnancy and by people with certain cardiovascular or kidney conditions. These recipes have not been evaluated for a safe daily intake of licorice.
Sage, hibiscus, and other botanicals may also require individual precautions. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before consuming unfamiliar herbal combinations, particularly if you take medications or have an underlying medical condition.
Herbal teas are not substitutes for medical evaluation, recommended vaccinations, or evidence-based treatments. Seek medical guidance for symptoms of illness.
Bringing the Winter Herbal Pantry into Your Home with 5 Homemade Herbal Tea Blends for Cold & Flu Season
One of my favorite things about working with dried herbs is how versatile they can be.
A collection of glass jars filled with fragrant leaves, flowers, roots, and spices can become the foundation for all kinds of homemade creations, from culinary seasonings and simmer pots to flavorful loose-leaf teas.
Until then, I hope these five blends inspire you to explore a few new ingredients and discover some wonderful flavors along the way.
Put the kettle on, settle into your favorite chair, and enjoy a little warmth from the winter herbal pantry.
From our kitchen at Fig Hollow Farm to yours.
As always, happy sipping!
Jennifer
Bonus Recipe: Butterfly Pea Flower & Orchard Blossom Tea
Ingredients
1 tablespoon dried butterfly pea flowers
2 teaspoons dried apple pieces
2 teaspoons dried pear pieces
2 teaspoons dried lemon balm
1½ teaspoons dried spearmint
1 teaspoon dried chamomile flowers
1 teaspoon dried lemongrass
1 teaspoon dried rose petals
¼ teaspoon lightly crushed fennel seeds
¼ teaspoon cut licorice root
For Serving:
Fresh lemon wedges
Honey, optional
Instructions
Combine all the dried flowers, fruits, herbs, and roots in a small mixing bowl.
Gently toss until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Transfer the finished blend to a clean, airtight glass jar.
To prepare one cup, use approximately 1 heaping tablespoon of the tea blend per 8 ounces of freshly boiled water.
Cover and steep for 10–12 minutes, allowing the dried fruits and botanicals to release their flavors.
Strain into a clear glass teacup or mug.
Serve with a fresh lemon wedge and watch the color begin to change as you add a few drops of lemon juice!
Flavor Profile: Delicate apple and pear notes, fragrant rose petals, soft chamomile, refreshing spearmint, and a gently sweet herbal finish.
A Little Something Different from the Herbal Pantry
One of the things I enjoy most about experimenting with herbs is discovering how beautifully different ingredients can work together.
From the fragrant garden herbs to the delicate orchard fruits and colorful butterfly pea flowers, this blend is a lovely reminder that homemade herbal teas can be just as interesting to look at as they are to drink.
And who wouldn't enjoy a tea that changes color right before their eyes?
Whether you're making a cup for yourself or sharing a pot with friends, this is one of those recipes that brings a little extra fun to the tea table.
Herbal Safety Note: This recipe is intended as a culinary beverage, not a treatment for illness. Butterfly pea flower has limited safety information, and Licorice root can affect blood pressure and potassium levels and can interact with medications. Use food-grade botanicals and always consult a qualified healthcare professional before adding herbs and spices to your diet especially if you have any medical conditions, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take medications.
Comments