Meadowsweet Tea Recipe

Meadowsweet tea is brewed from the leaves and flowers of the meadowsweet plant (Filipendula ulmaria).   It has a long history of use in treating fever, stomach ailments and inflammation. Current research suggests it may have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, and a few studies suggest meadowsweet may help alleviate  osteoarthritis symptoms and menstrual cramps. 

Native to Europe and Asia, meadowsweet is known for its white flowers and fragrant aroma. It contains salicylates, compounds similar to aspirin, which may help reduce inflammation and pain. You should use the same cautions when drinking meadowsweet as you would using an over-the-counter preparation that includes aspirin.

Meadowsweet Tea Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 Teaspoon dried meadowsweet leaves/flowers (or 2 Tablespoons fresh)
• 8 oz Boiling water
• 1 Tablespoon honey (optional)

Directions:

1. Steep meadowsweet for 10 minutes.
2. Strain
3. Enjoy

Other options: 

For additional calming benefits, consider adding chamomile and/or lemon balm to the tea. For pain relief, meadowsweet tea works well with white willow bark.

Option 1 - Meadowsweet and Chamomile / Lemon Balm Tea Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 Teaspoon dried meadowsweet leaves/flowers (or 1 Tablespoons fresh)
• 1 Teaspoon dried lemon balm, chamomile (or a combination of both)
• 8 oz Boiling water
• 1 Tablespoon honey (optional)

Directions:

1. Steep mixture for 10 minutes.
2. Strain
3. Enjoy

Option 2 - Meadowsweet and Chamomile/Lemon Balm Tea Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 Teaspoon dried meadowsweet leaves/flowers (or 1 Tablespoons fresh)
• 1 Teaspoon white willow bark
• 8 oz Boiling water
• 1 Tablespoon honey (optional)

Directions:

1. Steep mixture for 10 minutes.
2. Strain
3. Enjoy

Special note: Meadowsweet tea is generally safe for most people when consumed in moderation. However, it may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners. Consult with your doctor before drinking meadowsweet tea if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking any medications.

Please, do not attempt to treat medical problems without consulting a medical professional. Herbs, even those you used in cooking, can be potentially harmful if ingested often or in high concentrations. They can also interact with other medications, like over the counter preparations and prescription drugs, by amplifying, weakening or changing their effects.