How to Dry Chamomile for Tea
Are you seeking a natural way to unwind and relax? Chamomile tea is an easy, simple remedy that can do just that. From easing anxiety to aiding digestion, chamomile has many calming benefits. But before enjoying those benefits, you must learn how to dry chamomile for tea.
Why Dry Chamomile?
First things first, why not go for a store-bought chamomile tea? Why even dye herbs?
We aim to eliminate the moisture from the chamomile flowers while retaining their nutrients, flavor, and aroma.
When you do it yourself instead of opting for store-bought chamomile tea, you can control the methods used when drying herbs, resulting in a higher quality product than you can buy.
How to Dry Chamomile Flowers for Tea?
After buying fresh chamomile flowers or harvesting them yourself, you will need to dry them first before using them for tea. Although this may sound daunting, several main methods of drying chamomile flowers at home will yield great results.
Air Dry Chamomile
Chamomile can be dried in the open air on a hot, low-humidity day. A dry, well-ventilated room with a warm temperature will also work. Before drying, sorting through the flowers and removing any insects is essential. The herbs should also be laid out in a single layer, so they dry quickly.
Sun drying is not recommended as this causes chamomile to lose color and flavor.
Drying Chamomile in Dehydrator
Drying chamomile with a food dehydrator is an easy and efficient way to preserve the herb. Here’s how you do it:
- Start by adjusting your food dehydrator’s heat to between 95 and 115 °F (35 – 46 ° C).
- Arrange the flowers onto the trays of your food dehydrator and spread them out to cover the surface in a single layer.
- Depending on the temperature and type of dehydrator, the complete drying of chamomile flowers takes 1-4 hours.
- Monitor the chamomile every half hour while they dry to ensure they aren’t drying too fast or too slow.
Using Oven to Dry Chamomile Flowers
To dry chamomile in the oven:
- To start, warm the oven up to its lowest temperature.
- Evenly spread the chamomile flowers on a baking sheet.
- Leave the baking sheet in the oven for a few hours to dry.
Drying Chamomile in Microwave
To do so:
- Arrange the flowers onto a paper towel and cover them with a second one.
- Put them in the microwave for anywhere between 30 seconds to 2 minutes. The exact time depends on the wattage of your microwave.
- Monitor the chamomile flowers every 30 seconds to ensure they don’t get too dry.
- Once done, remove the flowers from the microwave. Put them in an airtight container away from heat and light.
How to Use Dried Chamomile Flowers for Tea
Brewing chamomile tea is easy. Steep one teaspoon of dried flowers in hot water for 4-5 minutes. Don’t steep too long, or the flavor may become bitter. Add a touch of honey to enjoy a sweeter-toned cup of tea!
How to Store Dried Chamomile Flowers
Place your dried chamomile in an airtight glass or metal container for storage. To ensure the best possible flavor, use your tea within one year, then dry a new batch of chamomile flowers!
Final Thoughts
By drying chamomile for tea, you can enjoy its health benefits and flavor to the fullest.
With the proper methods, your dried chamomile flowers will be ready quickly! Just remember to store them properly.
Whatever dying method you choose, these simple steps can help you preserve your herbs while enjoying their fantastic taste.
FAQ
Do You Have To Dry Chamomile To Make Tea?
Yes, typically, chamomile tea is made from dried chamomile flowers. The drying process concentrates the plant’s beneficial properties and gives the tea its characteristic flavor. Fresh chamomile flowers can also be used, but the flavor may be different.
