Here is the first in a short series of DIY Herbal Teas (do-it-yourself). No tea bags required! From the website www.about.com.
1 1/2 cups loosely packed sage leaves
1 large lemon
2 tbsp sugar
4 cups boiling water
sage sprigs or lemon wedge, for garnish
Bring water to a boil in a large saucepan and maintain a slight simmer (not a full, rolling boil). Separate sage leaves from stems and discard stems. Using a vegetable peeler, remove rind from lemon in 3-inch long strips.
Add sage, lemon strips, juice from lemon, and sugar to simmering water. Stir well to dissolve sugar. Maintain simmer for 30 minutes, covering saucepan with lid.
Strain tea into a heat-resistant pitcher. Can be served hot. For sipper, chill tea for 1-2 hours. Serve over ice with garnish, if desired.
This herbal tea will not be as dark as regular tea.
Garnished with sage leaves:
