Hibiscus, Rose, & Mint Sun Tea

Hibiscus, with its deep magenta color, purifies the blood and heart, both physically and spiritually. Together, these herbs clear toxins and heat from the blood and help to reduce inflammation in the tissues. Hibiscus, rose, and mint are all cooling and sweet, with rose and hibiscus having an astringent quality to them. For those who shy away from adding sweetener, I suggest adding even a small amount for the medicinal qualities sweet brings to balance the fire element that dominates in the summer.

Ingredients & Materials:

1 glass quart jar
2 Tbsp. hibiscus flowers
2 Tbsp. rose flowers
2 Tbsp. mint leaves
sweetener of your choice; agave, honey, maple syrup, unrefined sugar

Preparation Method:

Place the herbs into the jar, and fill almost to the top, leaving about a half inch of space. Cover the jar and place it outside in the sun. It will steep for 2-4 hours depending on how strong you want the tea and how strong the sun is. Strain out the herbs and add sweetener according to your palate. If you are looking for a spicy kick, and do not feel that you have excess heat in the body-mind-spirit, you can add some fresh ginger root before steeping.