Utilizing herbs from your garden

Many gardeners like to have a few herbs growing in pots outside their door. They are great for seasoning food and so handy.

Do you have an herb garden? How about using some of them in herbal teas or tisanes? On a cool foggy morning, like we’ve been having lately, a cup of mint or lavender tea would hit the spot. On warm afternoons, perhaps an iced tea of lemon balm or chamomile would be refreshing.

Start by preheating the teapot and cups with boiling water. Bruise freshly picked herbs by gently crushing them in a clean cloth. Use at least 1 teaspoon of dried herbs or one-half cup of freshly picked herbs for each cup of water. Let it steep for five to 10 minutes. Herbal teas taste good and many have soothing, medicinal properties.

— katie martin, UC Marin Master Gardeners