Bay Leaf & Clove Tea

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Bay Leaf & Clove Tea

Description

Bay Leaf & Clove Tea is a warm, aromatic herbal infusion made by gently simmering bay leaves and cloves. Earthy, slightly sweet, and spicy, this tea is traditionally enjoyed for digestion support, relaxation, and overall comfort—especially during colder months or after meals.

Ingredients

  • 2 dried bay leaves

  • 4 whole cloves

  • 2 cups water

  • Optional:

    • 1 teaspoon honey or jaggery (for sweetness)

    • A slice of fresh ginger (for warmth)

    • A squeeze of lemon (for brightness)

Instructions

  1. Add water to a saucepan and bring to a gentle boil.

  2. Add bay leaves and cloves.

  3. Reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes.

  4. Turn off heat, cover, and let steep for 2–3 minutes.

  5. Strain into a cup.

  6. Add optional sweetener or lemon if desired.

  7. Sip warm.

Servings

  • 1 serving
    (Recipe can be doubled or tripled easily)

Preparation Notes

  • Use whole cloves, not ground, for a cleaner flavor.

  • Dried bay leaves are preferred over fresh for tea due to stronger aroma.

  • Simmering (not boiling aggressively) preserves flavor and reduces bitterness.

Taste Profile

  • Earthy

  • Mildly spicy

  • Slightly bitter with a warming finish

Tips for Best Results

  • Don’t exceed recommended quantities—bay leaf is potent.

  • Drink after meals for digestive comfort.

  • Best enjoyed fresh; avoid storing for more than 12 hours.

  • If new to herbal teas, start with 1 bay leaf and adjust.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: ~5

  • Carbohydrates: ~1 g

  • Fat: 0 g

  • Protein: 0 g

  • Sugar: 0 g
    (Without sweeteners)

Herbal teas are naturally low-calorie and caffeine-free.

Potential Benefits

(Traditional and general wellness uses — not medical advice)

  • 🌿 May support digestion and reduce bloating

  • 🔥 Warming spices may help circulation

  • 🛡️ Contains natural plant compounds with antioxidant properties

  • 😌 Often used as a calming evening tea

  • 🌬️ Traditionally used for seasonal comfort (cold weather)

When to Drink

  • After meals

  • In the evening (caffeine-free)

  • During cold or damp weather

Q & A

Q: Can I drink this tea daily?
A: Yes, in moderation (1 cup per day). Avoid excessive intake.

Q: Is it safe during pregnancy?
A: Occasional culinary amounts are generally considered safe, but regular use should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Q: Can I reuse the bay leaves and cloves?
A: You can reuse them once, but the flavor and potency will be reduced.

Q: Can I add other spices?
A: Yes! Cinnamon or fennel pair beautifully with this tea.

Q: Does this tea contain caffeine?
A: No, it is completely caffeine-free.

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