Discover how to make refreshing herbal sun tea using dried flowers, leaves, fruits, and botanicals. Learn which herbs are traditionally enjoyed in iced herbal tea blends throughout the summer.
As temperatures rise, many people look for lighter, refreshing beverages that can be enjoyed throughout the day. Herbal teas have long been a favorite during the warmer months, offering a naturally flavorful alternative to sugary drinks. Whether served over ice, infused overnight, or brewed traditionally and chilled, herbal teas are an easy way to enjoy a wide variety of botanicals during the summer season.
One popular method is making herbal sun tea—a simple way to create large batches of herbal tea for relaxing afternoons, backyard gatherings, and warm evenings.
What Is Herbal Sun Tea?
Sun tea is traditionally made by allowing herbs to slowly infuse in water over several hours. Instead of using boiling water, the warmth of the day gently extracts the flavor and aroma from the herbs, creating a smooth and refreshing beverage.
Many families have enjoyed sun tea for generations as a summertime tradition. It's an easy way to prepare enough herbal tea to share while highlighting the natural flavors of dried flowers, leaves, fruits, and spices.
Food safety note: Many food safety experts recommend preparing herbal tea with hot water first and then chilling it, or using a cold-infusion method in the refrigerator, rather than leaving water to warm outdoors for several hours. These methods help reduce the risk of unwanted bacterial growth while still producing a refreshing iced tea.
Choosing Herbs for Summer Tea
Summer blends are often built around herbs that are naturally bright, floral, fruity, or refreshing.
Hibiscus Flower
Known for its vibrant ruby-red color and tart flavor, hibiscus creates a bold herbal tea that is especially popular served over ice.
Chrysanthemum Flower
A classic herbal flower with a light floral taste that has been enjoyed in traditional teas for generations.
Peppermint Leaf
Peppermint contributes a clean, refreshing flavor that pairs well with citrus fruits and other herbs.
Lemon Balm
With its gentle lemon aroma, lemon balm is a favorite addition to summertime herbal blends.
Rose Petals
Rose petals add a delicate floral fragrance and beautiful appearance to homemade tea blends.
Elder Berry
Traditionally used in seasonal herbal preparations, elder berries contribute a rich, fruity flavor when simmered before being added to blended teas.
Try These Summer Herbal Tea Blends
Garden Floral Blend
- Chrysanthemum Flower
- Rose Petals
- Lavender
- Lemon Balm
A light, aromatic blend that's perfect served chilled.
Berry Hibiscus Blend
- Hibiscus Flower
- Elder Berry
- Rose Hips
- Cinnamon Stick
A colorful, fruity tea with a naturally vibrant appearance.
Mint Citrus Blend
- Peppermint
- Lemon Balm
- Dried Orange Peel
- Lemongrass
Bright, refreshing flavors that make an excellent iced herbal tea.
Botanical Garden Blend
- Chamomile
- Calendula
- Rose Petals
- Spearmint
A beautiful combination that looks just as appealing as it tastes.
Tips for Brewing Iced Herbal Tea
For the fullest flavor, many herbal enthusiasts prepare herbs with hot water before chilling them in the refrigerator. Dense ingredients such as roots, bark, berries, and mushrooms are traditionally simmered first, while leaves and flowers are steeped separately to preserve their delicate aromas.
Once cooled, the tea can be poured over ice and garnished with fresh citrus slices, berries, or herbs for an inviting presentation.
Storing Summer Tea
Prepared herbal tea is best stored in a clean glass container in the refrigerator and enjoyed within a few days. Keep it covered to help preserve its freshness and aroma.
If you're making large batches for entertaining, prepare only what you'll use within a short period to maintain the best flavor.
Create Your Own Summer Tea Traditions
One of the best parts of herbal tea is experimenting with different combinations. Floral herbs, refreshing leaves, dried fruits, and warming spices can all be mixed in countless ways to create unique seasonal blends.
As you discover your favorite recipes, consider keeping a notebook of successful combinations. Over time, you'll build a collection of summer teas that become part of your own seasonal traditions.
Explore Herbal Tea Ingredients at LA Herb
At LA Herb, you'll find a wide selection of dried flowers, leaves, berries, roots, citrus peels, and traditional botanicals perfect for creating homemade herbal tea blends.
Whether you're preparing a refreshing pitcher for a summer picnic, hosting friends in the backyard, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon on the patio, quality herbs are the foundation of every great cup.