Sassafras Roots or Leaves – 3-4 roots or 10-12 leaves
Water – 4 cups
Sugar or Honeyoptional – to taste
Lemon or Orange Slicesoptional – for garnish
Instructions
Harvesting Sassafras:
Begin by identifying a healthy sassafras tree. Ensure you have permission to harvest from the property owner or obtain sassafras roots or leaves from a reputable source.
Use a small spade or trowel to carefully dig up 3-4 sassafras roots or collect 10-12 fresh sassafras leaves. Be mindful not to harm the tree.
Preparing The Sassafras:
Once you have gathered the roots or leaves, rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
If using roots, chop them into small pieces. You can use leaves whole if you are using them.
Boiling Sassafras:
In a pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
Add the cleaned and chopped sassafras roots or leaves to the boiling water.
After lowering the heat to low, simmer the mixture for twenty to thirty minutes. This will allow the sassafras to infuse its flavors into the water.
Straining And Sweetening:
Strain the tea into a teapot or serving pitcher using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth, removing any sassafras particles.
Now, it’s time to add sweetness to your tea. To flavor, you can use honey or sugar. Start with 2-3 tablespoons and adjust as needed.
Serving Sassafras Tea:
Pour the freshly brewed Sassafras Tea into cups or mugs.
Garnish with lemon or orange slices if desired for a touch of freshness.