Quick sum-up
Borage , with its star topology - shaped blue flowers and refreshing cucumber vine - like tang , is a herbaceous plant that has been used for centuries intraditional medicineand culinary software . Its finespun flowers and leaves are particularly prized for making a delicious andsoothing herbal Camellia sinensis . If you ’re looking to cultivate and harvest your own borage for teatime , this comprehensive pathfinder will render you with all theessential knowledgeand technique .
Choosing the Right Borage Plants
The first pace inharvesting boragefor tea is to select the right flora . Look for borage plants that are healthy and vigorous , withbright green leavesand an abundance of flowers . annul works that show signs of disease or pests .
Harvesting Borage Flowers
The flowers of borage are the most commonly used part formaking Camellia sinensis . They can be reap from early summertime to late decline , when they arefully openand have a vivacious blue color . To harvest borage flowers:1 . softly comprehend the base of the flower with your fingers.2 . Pinch the stem just below theflower headand pull it away.3 . Place theharvested flowersin a basketball hoop or container .
Harvesting Borage Leaves
While the flowers are theprimary ingredientfor borage tea , the leaves can also be used to enhance the flavor andadd nutritional benefit . tailwort leaves are well harvested in the spring orearly summerwhen they are young and raw . To reap borage leaves:1 . Select untested , healthy leavesfrom the plant.2 . Cut the leaves from the stalk using asharp knifeor scissors.3 . Wash the leaves thoroughly to move out any dirt or insects .
Drying Borage Flowers and Leaves
Once harvested , tailwort flowersand leaves want to be dry before they can be used for tea . dry helps preserve their nip and aroma while preventing spoiling . Todry borage flowersand leaves:1 . Spread the flowers or leave in asingle layeron adrying rackor tray.2 . range the rack in a warm , well - vent areaout of direct sunlight.3 . Allow the peak or leaves to dry out for 2 - 3 days , or until they arecompletely dryand crispy .
Storing Dried Borage
Once dried , borage flowersand leaves should be salt away inairtight containersin a cool , dark place . This will help preserve their flavor and tone for up to a year .
Making Borage Tea
Tomake borage teatime , you may apply either dry out orfresh flowersand folio . Tomake borage teawithdried flowersand leaves:1 . Add 1 - 2 teaspoons ofdried borage flowersor leaves to a teacupful or teapot.2 . swarm 1 cup ofhot waterover the flowers or leaves.3 . Steep for 5 - 10 minute , or until thetea reachesthe hope strength.4 . Strain the Camellia sinensis and enjoy . Tomake borage teawithfresh flowersand leaves:1 . tote up 1 - 2 tablespoons offresh tailwort flowersor leaves to a teacupful or teapot.2 . Pour 1 cup ofhot waterover the bloom or leaves.3 . Steep for 5 - 10 proceedings , or until thetea reachesthe desired strength.4 . Strain the tea and enjoy .
Borage Tea Benefits
Borage teatime is not only brisk and flavorsome but also offers severalpotential wellness benefits . These admit :
Borage Tea Precautions
Whileborage teaisgenerally considered safefor most people , there are some precautions to keep in nous :
Answers to Your Questions
Q : When is the best time toharvest boragefor tea?A : The best time toharvest boragefor teatime is during thesummer monthswhen the flowers are in full bloom . Q : Can I use both the flowers and parting of Borago officinalis for tea?A : Yes , you’re able to practice both the flower and farewell of borage for Camellia sinensis . The prime have a moredelicate smack , while theleaves adda somewhat earthy note . Q : How long can Istore dry borage flowersand leaves?A : dry Borago officinalis flowersand farewell can be stored inairtight containersin a coolheaded , dark placefor up to a year . Q : Can I grow my own Borago officinalis plants?A : Yes , borage is a relatively easy plant life to grow . It prefers well - drain soilandfull sunto partial shade . Q : What other ways can I use borage?A : In addition tomaking tea leaf , Borago officinalis flowerscan be used as a garnish for salads and dessert . The farewell can be sum up to soup , sweat , and other dishes . tailwort oil is also available and can be used as a dietary supplement or in skincare products .
