A How-To Guide Using Alberta Native Plants and Traditional Herbs

There’s something deeply satisfying about sipping a warm cup of tea made from herbs you grew and prepared yourself. Beyond flavor, many herbs carry nutritional and soothing qualities that have been used for generations. In Alberta, we’re fortunate to have access to a variety of native plants and traditional garden herbs that can be harvested, dried, and brewed into refreshing teas.

Choosing Your Herbs

Here are some Alberta-friendly plants that work beautifully in herbal teas:

• Wild Mint (Mentha arvensis): A native mint with a cooling, refreshing flavor that supports digestion.
• Yarrow (Achillea millefolium): Known for its delicate flowers, yarrow has been used traditionally for calming and immune support.
• Wild Rose (Rosa acicularis): Alberta’s provincial flower! Rosehips are packed with vitamin C and add a tart, fruity note.
• Chamomile (Matricaria recutita): A soothing herb often used for relaxation and better sleep.
• Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis): A gentle herb with a bright lemon scent, uplifting for mood and calming for nerves.

Harvesting Tips

• Timing matters: Pick herbs in the morning after the dew has dried but before the midday heat.
• Choose the best parts: Harvest healthy, vibrant leaves and flowers—avoid yellowing or damaged foliage.
• Leave some for nature: Always take just a portion from each plant to ensure it continues to thrive and provide for pollinators.

Drying and Storing

• Air Drying: Bundle small bunches of herbs and hang them upside down in a dry, airy spot out of direct sunlight.
• Tray Drying: Spread leaves or flowers on a clean screen or tray, turning them occasionally until crisp.
• Storage: Once fully dry, crumble leaves or petals gently and store them in airtight glass jars. Keep them in a cool, dark place to preserve flavor and nutrients.

Brewing Your Tea

• Use 1–2 teaspoons of dried herbs per cup of hot water.
• Steep for 5–10 minutes, depending on strength desired.
• Experiment by blending herbs: mint + rosehip for a refreshing vitamin boost, or chamomile + lemon balm for a calming bedtime tea.

A Tradition Worth Reviving

For centuries, people in Alberta and beyond have turned to plants for both flavor and wellness. Creating your own herbal teas is not only cost-effective, but also a way to deepen your connection with the land and its gifts.

So next time you walk through your garden—or along a prairie trail—consider what plants might fill your teacup.