How to dry lemon balm leaves to make tea?

There are several simple methods for drying lemon balm leaves for tea , depending on your time and tools. A dehydrator works best for preserving flavor. Just set it to 95–105°F and let the leaves dry for 8 to 12 hours. It’s efficient and reliable. If you prefer a hands-off, traditional method, air-drying is also great. Tie stems together and hang them in a cool, dry room for 7 to 14 days. For faster results, oven drying at 170–180°F takes about 2 to 3 hours. And when you're really short on time, microwave drying small batches can work in under a minute. No matter the method, the key to drying lemon balm leaves for tea is watching for crisp, crumbly texture that’s when you know they’re ready to store. With the right approach, drying lemon balm leaves for tea becomes a simple and rewarding process that fits your routine.

Can you make tea from fresh lemon balm leaves?

Yes, you can. Fresh lemon balm makes a light, refreshing tea. Just rinse the leaves, then steep about 15–20 in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes. The flavor is milder than dried lemon balm, but still calming and pleasant. Use fresh leaves the same day you harvest for the best results.

Is lemon balm tea better dried or fresh?

Both have their benefits. Dried lemon balm is more concentrated, convenient, and long-lasting. It’s our go-to for consistent flavor and easy use. Fresh lemon balm has a bright and grassy note that’s great when the plant is thriving. We recommend using fresh in spring and early summer, and dried during cooler months or when time is short.

How to harvest lemon balm leaves for tea?

Harvest in the morning when the oils are strongest. Clip stems before the plant flowers, about 2 inches above a growth node. Don’t remove more than two-thirds of the plant at once. Gently rinse if needed, pat dry, and proceed to drying. Choose healthy, green leaves for the best tea quality.

Drying Lemon Balm Leaves for Tea – 4 Best Easy Ways Revealed

Name: Drying Lemon Balm Leaves for Tea – A Simple Guide to Homemade Herbal Bliss
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 9 min
Cuisine: Herbal
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon dried lemon balm leaves; 1 cup filtered water; Optional: honey, lemon zest, mint, or chamomile

Description

A calming herbal tea made from dried lemon balm leaves, perfect for relaxation and promoting sleep.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon dried lemon balm leaves
1 cup filtered water
Optional: honey, lemon zest, mint, or chamomile

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Instructions

Heat the water to just under boiling, around 200°F.
Place the dried lemon balm leaves in a tea infuser or teapot.
Pour the hot water over the leaves.
Cover and let the tea steep for 5–7 minutes.
Remove the infuser or strain the leaves.
Add honey or other optional ingredients to taste.
Serve warm or chilled over ice.

Notes

Use whole dried leaves and crush them only when ready to brew for maximum flavor.

You can combine lemon balm with other herbs like mint or chamomile for variety.

Adjust steeping time for a stronger or milder brew.

Prep Time: 2 mins
Cook Time: 7 mins
Category: Tea
Method: Steeping
Cuisine: Herbal

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 2
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 1mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 0.5g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg