Lemon balm tea has a naturally fresh, lemony flavor that makes it easy to enjoy on its own. But if you want to explore new flavors, combining lemon balm with other herbs can create delicious and comforting herbal tea blends for different times of the day.
From calming floral combinations to refreshing minty blends, there are many simple ways to mix lemon balm with herbs you may already have in your kitchen or garden. The best part is that you can adjust the ingredients according to your personal taste.
Here are seven easy lemon balm tea blends to try at home.
Table of Contents
- 1. Lemon Balm and Chamomile Tea
- 2. Lemon Balm and Peppermint Tea
- 3. Lemon Balm and Lavender Tea
- 4. Lemon Balm and Ginger Tea
- 5. Lemon Balm and Rosemary Tea
- 6. Lemon Balm and Fennel Tea
- 7. Lemon Balm, Mint, and Lemon Tea
- How to Create Your Own Lemon Balm Tea Blends
- Tips for Making Better Lemon Balm Tea Blends
- Final Thoughts
1. Lemon Balm and Chamomile Tea
Lemon balm and chamomile make a classic combination for a relaxing herbal tea. Both herbs have a gentle flavor, while chamomile adds a soft floral note that balances the bright citrus taste of lemon balm.
To make this blend, combine:
- 1 teaspoon dried lemon balm
- 1 teaspoon dried chamomile flowers
- 1 cup hot water
Steep the herbs in hot water for about 5 to 10 minutes, then strain and enjoy. You can add a small amount of honey if you prefer a naturally sweet flavor.
This blend is especially enjoyable in the evening when you want a warm, caffeine-free drink as part of your bedtime routine.
2. Lemon Balm and Peppermint Tea
For a refreshing herbal tea, try combining lemon balm with peppermint. The lemony flavor of lemon balm pairs naturally with the cool, fresh taste of peppermint.
You can use:
- 1 teaspoon dried lemon balm
- ½ to 1 teaspoon dried peppermint
- 1 cup hot water
Steep for 5 to 8 minutes. If you prefer a stronger mint flavor, simply add a little more peppermint.
This combination can be served hot during colder months or chilled over ice during warm weather. Add a slice of fresh lemon for an extra citrusy touch.
3. Lemon Balm and Lavender Tea
Lemon balm and lavender create a fragrant herbal blend with a delicate floral aroma. Because lavender can have a strong flavor, it is best to start with a small amount and adjust the recipe to your liking.
Try mixing:
- 1 teaspoon dried lemon balm
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon culinary-grade dried lavender
- 1 cup hot water
Steep for around 5 minutes and strain well. The result is a light, aromatic tea with a pleasant combination of citrus and floral notes.
This blend is a good choice when you want something simple and soothing to enjoy during a quiet afternoon or evening.
4. Lemon Balm and Ginger Tea
If you prefer a warmer, spicier flavor, lemon balm and ginger are an excellent match. Ginger brings a slightly spicy taste that contrasts nicely with the mild citrus flavor of lemon balm.
For one cup, use:
- 1 teaspoon dried lemon balm
- A few thin slices of fresh ginger
- 1 cup hot water
Allow the ginger to steep in hot water for several minutes before adding the lemon balm. Continue steeping for another 5 minutes, then strain.
You can add fresh lemon juice and a little honey for a bright and warming herbal drink. This blend is particularly enjoyable on cool mornings or after a meal.
5. Lemon Balm and Rosemary Tea
Lemon balm can also be combined with rosemary for a more herbal and aromatic tea. Rosemary has a bold flavor, so using a small amount helps keep the blend balanced.
Try:
- 1 teaspoon dried lemon balm
- ¼ teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 cup hot water
Steep for about 5 minutes, then taste. If you enjoy a stronger rosemary flavor, you can gradually increase the amount next time.
This combination offers a unique flavor profile that is different from sweeter floral teas. It can be a good option for people who enjoy earthy, aromatic herbal blends.
6. Lemon Balm and Fennel Tea
For a naturally sweet and slightly licorice-like flavor, try pairing lemon balm with fennel seeds. Fennel adds a distinctive taste that works well with the fresh citrus notes of lemon balm.
To prepare one cup, use:
- 1 teaspoon dried lemon balm
- ½ teaspoon lightly crushed fennel seeds
- 1 cup hot water
Steep for 7 to 10 minutes and strain before drinking.
Because fennel has a naturally sweet flavor, this tea may not need additional sweetener. If you enjoy a more refreshing taste, you can also add a small piece of fresh lemon.
7. Lemon Balm, Mint, and Lemon Tea
For a bright and refreshing blend, combine lemon balm with mint and fresh lemon. This three-ingredient combination is simple to prepare and works well as either a hot or iced herbal tea.
Use:
- 1 teaspoon dried lemon balm
- ½ teaspoon dried mint
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 to 2 slices of fresh lemon
Steep the lemon balm and mint for 5 to 8 minutes. Strain the tea, then add fresh lemon slices.
For an iced version, allow the tea to cool completely before pouring it over ice. You can add a few fresh mint leaves for extra flavor and a refreshing presentation.
How to Create Your Own Lemon Balm Tea Blends
Once you become familiar with the flavor of lemon balm, you can experiment with your own combinations. A simple starting point is to use lemon balm as the main ingredient and add a smaller amount of another herb.
For example, try combining lemon balm with floral herbs such as chamomile or lavender, refreshing herbs such as peppermint or spearmint, or warming ingredients such as ginger.
Start with small amounts when using strong herbs. This makes it easier to adjust the flavor without overpowering the lemon balm.
You can also experiment with fresh and dried ingredients. Fresh lemon slices, ginger, mint leaves, and other ingredients can add brightness to your tea, while dried herbs are convenient for everyday use.
Tips for Making Better Lemon Balm Tea Blends
Use freshly boiled water that has cooled slightly rather than pouring aggressively boiling water over delicate herbs. Covering your cup while the tea steeps can also help preserve the aroma.
A steeping time of around 5 to 10 minutes works well for most blends, although stronger ingredients such as ginger or fennel seeds may benefit from a slightly longer steep.
If you are trying a new combination, make one cup first and adjust the proportions the next time. Everyone has different taste preferences, so there is no single perfect recipe.
It is also a good idea to choose herbs intended for culinary or tea use and to check for potential allergies or medication interactions if you regularly take medicines. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should ask a qualified healthcare professional before using herbal products regularly.
Final Thoughts
These seven lemon balm tea blends offer an easy way to enjoy the fresh, citrusy character of lemon balm while discovering new herbal flavors. Whether you prefer the gentle floral taste of chamomile, the refreshing coolness of peppermint, the warmth of ginger, or the aromatic character of rosemary, there is a combination to suit almost every preference.
Start with one simple recipe and adjust the ingredients to create your favorite blend. With a few basic herbs and a cup of hot water, you can enjoy a homemade caffeine-free herbal tea that is both flavorful and easy to prepare.
