You Need to Gather Herbs for Ligo. Here’s How to Do It Right 0 15

Ivan-tea, or narrow-leaved fireweed

Ivan-tea, or scientifically known as narrow-leaved fireweed, is a perennial plant characterized by a long flowering period that lasts from early summer to mid-autumn.

Fireweed should be collected when the plant is in bloom. It is during this period that the leaves contain the highest amount of beneficial substances. For tea, only the leaves from the middle of the stem are collected. Pick them carefully to avoid damaging the stem. To make the tea fragrant, you can also collect the flower clusters. The raw materials should be harvested in dry weather. The best times for this are in the evening when it is already cool and the sun is not scorching, or in the morning after the dew has dried.

When collecting leaves, ensure they are free of insects, especially bedbugs. Do this in areas away from highways and cities.

Fireweed can be dried in several ways. However, in any method, it is necessary to achieve the release of juice from the leaves, which promotes fermentation. Without it, the tea will not be tasty and aromatic.

Thyme

It is best to gather thyme, or wild thyme, before it starts to bloom when the grass has the highest concentration of essential oils. When collecting thyme, do so away from roads, industrial enterprises, and dumps. Fresh thyme can be stored for up to seven days, so it is best to dry it immediately. The collected herb can be dried outdoors. Store the dried raw materials in a tightly closed container in a dry, dark place for no more than two years.

St. John’s Wort

St. John’s Wort prefers open sunny places. It is most often found in dry open glades and forest edges. St. John’s Wort bushes begin to develop in early spring, dedicating all their energy to recovery after the cold. The plant should be collected during its flowering period.

St. John’s Wort has a rather stiff stem, so it is better to use pruning shears, a sharp knife, scissors, or a sickle for collection. From one bush, cut no more than two or three branches, without disturbing the roots. This will prevent the plant from dying, as it does not spread readily. St. John’s Wort has a rather stiff stem, so it is better to use pruning shears for collection.

It can be dried in various ways: outdoors, in the oven, or in a dehydrator for vegetables and fruits. Only well-dried herbs can be stored. The leaves should crumble, and the branches should snap with a crunch. If all the rules are followed, the taste and aroma of St. John’s Wort will be preserved for three years.

Proper Brewing

To achieve maximum benefits and aroma, the water temperature and steeping time are important for extracting active substances. For example, for most herbs, the optimal temperature is 90-95 degrees Celsius. This helps preserve essential oils and beneficial components. Steeping should be done for five to 15 minutes depending on the type of herb. It is important to use quality dried plants or fresh herbs, as they provide a richer taste and aroma.

For brewing, it is necessary to use glass or ceramic dishes. Do not steep the herbs for too long, as this can lead to bitterness and a deterioration in taste.

Don’t Overdo It

It should be noted that herbal teas can have a negative impact on health. This was stated by therapist Nadezhda Chernyshova.

“I would like to point out that a significant portion of liver damage is associated with the abuse of herbs, including those that seem to be safe, such as Ivan-tea,” the expert noted.

The doctor emphasized that no herb is completely indifferent and absolutely safe. According to the expert, individual intolerance to certain medicinal herbs is possible.

The therapist warns that when choosing herbal teas, it is essential to consult a doctor and to try these drinks very cautiously.