Floral Black Tea Latte from Asian American Herbalism
Here is a tea blend to ease stress, tension, and everyday pains. Black tea is a warming and hearty base for carrying a variety of herbs and flowers.
The rose in this recipe is a harmonizer because it gently moves Blood and benefits the flow of energy in the body. It also balances the overall energy of the recipe. Safflower petals are so powerful at moving Blood that they can ease physical pains when taken in small amounts, slowly, and over time.
Finally, the milk adds a layer of rich Yin moisture and is a vehicle for the tonic powders. You may substitute a single powdered herbal extract (i.e., chaga or reishi mushroom) in place of the Blood Tonic powder in this recipe for similar effects.
Ingredients:
- 3 ounces (85 g) loose black tea leaves
- 1 Tbsp rose buds or petals, plus a petal for serving
- 1 Tbsp dried lemon balm
- 1 Tbsp dried safflower petals
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk or a non-dairy milk alternative
- 1/2 tsp Blood Tonic Powder (recipe below)
- 1 tsp honey, to more as needed
- Ground cinnamon, for serving
In an airtight container, combine the black tea, rose, lemon balm, and safflower petals. Store away from heat, light, and moisture for up to 12 months.
To make a cup of tea, place 1 tsp of the tea in a teapot and pour 1 cup (240 ml) of simmering water (180° F [80º C]) over the tea. Cover and steep for 3 minutes before strainng. In a blender or using a frother, blend the milk, Blood Tonic Powder, and honey for about 10 seconds or until frothy and just incorporated. Pour the tea into a mug and top with frothed milk, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a rose petal.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz (60g) he shou wu powder extract
- 2 oz (60g) chaga mushroom powder extract
- 1 oz (30g) reishi mushroom powder extract
In an airtight container, combine the he chou wu, chaga mushroom, and reishi mushroom and mix well. Store away from heat, light, and moisture for up to 12 months. Use this powder in tea lattes, coffee drinks, and everyday meals like soups.
Photo credit: Kristen Murakoshi, Asian American Herbalism
Excerpted from Asian American Herbalism: Traditional and Modern Healing Practices for Everyday Wellness by Erin Masako Wilkins. Published by Princeton Architectural Press, owned by Chronicle Books. Copyright © 2023 by Erin Masako Wilkins.