Hawthorn berry tea, derived from a common prickly shrub in the rose family, contains a multitude of substances that support heart health. Antioxidant flavanoids may aid the dilation of blood vessels, increase blood flow and protect the vessels from damage, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Before brewing hawthorn berry tea, talk to your doctor about side effects and possible interactions. The Center notes that hawthorn is considered a safe herb and side effects are rare but may include headache, nausea and heart palpitations.
Step 1
Put 1 to 2 tsp. of hawthorn berries in a single-serve tea strainer. These small mesh balls make it simple to prepare loose tea. Pre-bagged hawthron berry tea purchased online, at a supermarket or health foods store is also acceptable.
Step 2
Boil a cup of water in a teapot on the stove or in a ceramic mug in the microwave. Be sure the water is hot and reaches at least a light boil. The presence of tiny bubbles indicates the water is an adequate temperature.
Step 3
Place your herbs in a mug and add the hot water, pouring it slowly over the herbs.
Step 4
Steep the tea. For a lighter flavor, remove the berries after five minutes. To achieve a stronger brew, steep for up to 10 minutes.
Step 5
Remove the tea bag or tea strainer. Due to the naturally sour flavor of hawthorn berry tea, you may need to add a sprinkling of cinnamon and 1 tsp. of honey or sugar to sweeten the beverage. One tbsp. of milk or cream turns a full-bodied tea into a satisfying creamy beverage.
Things You'll Need
- Hawthorne berries
- Tea Strainer
- Teapot
- Mug
- Honey, sugar, cinnamon, milk or cream (optional)
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