Prepare The Peppermint Leaves: If using fresh peppermint leaves, gently rinse them under cold water. If using dried leaves, ensure they are properly stored and not too old to maintain potency.
Boil Water: Heat one cup of water in a kettle or a saucepan until it reaches a rolling boil.
Steep The Peppermint: Place the peppermint leaves in a teapot or a cup. Pour the boiling water over the leaves. If using a teapot, cover it to retain heat and essential oils.
Steeping Time: Let the tea steep for about 5 to 7 minutes. The longer you steep, the stronger the flavor and medicinal properties. However, avoid oversleeping as it might become too intense.
Strain The Tea: If you used loose leaves, strain the tea into your cup. If you used a tea infuser or tea bag, simply remove it from the cup.
Add Honey And Lemon (Optional): Sweeten your peppermint tea with a little honey if desired. Honey adds its own throat-soothing properties and natural sweetness. A slice of lemon adds a tangy flavor and provides vitamin C, which is beneficial for the immune system.
Enjoy Your Tea: Sip the tea while it’s warm to experience the decongestant effect. Inhaling the steam can also help in clearing the nasal passages.