Why combine liquorice and mint leaves?
Mint (whether spearmint or peppermint) has a lively, fresh and invigorating taste. By contrast, liquorice has a sweeter flavour, with bitter and woody notes. Alongside these flavours, which harmonise beautifully together, the two aromatic plants are known for their similar properties, which support digestion and intestinal transit.
What are the benefits of mint?
Popular since Antiquity, mint – and more specifically menthol, one of its molecules – acts as a pain reliever. Used on the skin (as a poultice or essential oil), this aromatic plant may also relieve joint pain and insect bites. But its benefits can also be enjoyed in an infusion, as hot water releases its active compounds more easily than cold water. Mint may then help clear the airways, particularly in the event of a cold, or aid digestion and soothe stomach aches and bloating.
What are the benefits of liquorice?
This plant, native to Asia and southern Europe, is mainly renowned for its roots, where its active compounds are concentrated. The root is sold and marketed in stick form. In herbal medicine (the treatment or prevention of illnesses through the use of plants), liquorice may relieve inflammation of the digestive system and skin conditions (psoriasis, herpes, dermatitis, eczema), while reducing joint pain. However, take care not to consume it in excess, at too high a dose or for too long.
How do you prepare a homemade liquorice and mint herbal tea?
If you have neither mint nor liquorice in your garden (or no garden at all!), mint plants (or peppermint plants) can be found in many shops, along with liquorice root sold in sticks. Be sure to choose plants from organic farming, as they are guaranteed pesticide-free. You can also opt for dried mint leaves, which keep for longer. To prepare the infusion, place the liquorice stick in a saucepan of simmering water (heated to 100 degrees) for 5 minutes. Turn off the heat and add mint leaves (one sprig per desired cup). Then strain everything through a kitchen sieve (as liquorice root can leave small pieces) and enjoy without delay.
How can you add more flavour to a liquorice and mint herbal tea?
If you wish to sweeten the infusion, we suggest adding a little brown sugar, honey, maple syrup or agave syrup. Note that liquorice and mint herbal tea can be complemented with other aromatic plants for even more flavour and benefits. We recommend “liquorice-mint-lime”, “liquorice-mint-fennel”, “liquorice-mint-chamomile”, “liquorice, mint, hibiscus flower” or “liquorice-mint-ginger” blends.
Which Kusmi infusion contains liquorice and mint?
No desire or time to make a homemade herbal tea? At Kusmi, we have created a wide range of infusions. Among them, our Be Cool blend contains mint and verbena leaves, accompanied by apple and liquorice. All these aromatic plants come from organic farming (a choice we have made at Kusmi), then they are blended, flavoured and packaged in France, in Seine-Maritime. Whether bought loose or in tea bags, Be Cool infusion comes in eco-friendly packaging that is either recyclable or biodegradable. What more could you ask for?