With illnesses such as Covid-19, flu, and RSV going around, I think more people are turning to more natural remedies to help with some of the symptoms. This definitely doesn't replace what modern medicine provides, but if you have congestion, sore throat, or upset stomach, these make-ahead cubes can definitely help. I was inspired by a video I saw of someone making something similar, but she froze the tea in a mold to store long-term. I thought that was a great way to have an all-natural tea on hand during the flu/Covid season.
Ingredients/Supplies:
Ice cube tray
2 cups water
Medium bundle of thyme
1 1/2 inch knob of fresh ginger, peeled and rough-chopped (I like a lot of ginger but I found it wasn't too strong when I made the tea)
1 lemon
Instructions:
1) Heat the water on medium heat, add the ginger and thyme (I crush/twist the stems to release the oils beforehand). Heat covered on medium-low for 20 minutes, remove from heat and allow to cool to warm. The flavor will likely not be too strong so you can let it steep longer if you want. You may want a more concentrated flavor since it will be diluted with hot water when you go to use it
2) Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a jar
3) Prepare the lemon: cut in half lengthwise, then cut each half lengthwise again. Then slice each half into 1/2" wedges and place each tiny wedge in the ice cube tray
4) Pour the tea into the ice cube tray and freeze. Can store for several months.
5) To use: Add 2 cubes in a mug and fill with hot water. Add some honey, if desired, and feel better!
This is the variation I used but there are others:
lemon + mint + ginger
chamomile + mint
ginger + turmeric + lemon
rosemary + ginger + lemon
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