This blend is meant to open your heart, but also support the physical heart, the cardiovascular system, the nervous system, and the reproductive system.
Damiana is a yang nourishing plant, a nervine (supports the nervous system), antidepressant, anxiolytic (reduces anxiety), stimulant, balances hormones, a reproductive tonic, and an aphrodisiac. For the skin, ingesting damiana can improve glow as it is rich in vitamin C which is a co-enzyme for collagen product, and a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce and prevent damage from the sun, modern living, stress, poor diet and more.
Rose Hips are the fruit or the seed pod of the rose plant found just below the petals and are a rich source of vitamin C (again this is essential in the production of collagen). Much like marshmallow root, when used in tea rose hips are mucilaginous and coat the mucous membranes with internal moisture and hydration. They are supportive to the cardiovascular system as they tone and enhance the integrity.
Hawthorn Berry also comes from the rose family and is beneficial to treat a broken heart, depression, and anxiety, but are is also know for its cardio-protective properties. It is know to help support the heart and used in cases of high blood pressure , heart attacks, familial history of heart problems.
Oat straw is another powerful nervous system supportive herb filled with vitamins and minerals. This has been added to balance the astringent (tissue tightening) properties of the other herbs, and to nourish the body and spirit. Used over time this gentle herb is helpful for mental health, and to rebuild the nervous system. (This had been a great plant ally to me during tumultuous times)!
Rose petals, cinnamon, and orange peel give this tea a beautiful bright, floral, citrusy, and spicy flavor!
Red Hot Hearts Tea Blend
2 parts organic dried damiana
2 parts organic dried rose hips
2 parts organic dried hawthorn berry
1 park organic dried oat straw
1 part organic dried rose petals
½ part organic dried cinnamon chips
½ part organic fresh or dried orange peel (I used fresh diced peel)
½ part organic dried licorice root (for a slight sweetness, if you dislike licorice flavor, omit and add a small amount of honey after steeping)
Mix together. (If you are using fresh orange peel as I did, add this to the next step, do not store with the dried herbs as this will create mold).
Add 2 TBSP to a french press, muslin bag, or tea infuser (giving the tea room to expand).
Add 2 cups of boiling water.
Steep for 15-20 minutes.
Enjoy.
*note that damiana is a stimulant and a diuretic so it is best not to drink immediately before sleep.
