If you've been over to my apartment, I've probably offered you some Tea of the Feminine blended by Lacy Phillips of Free + Native. It's one of my favorite teas and I use it regularly during the month to nourish my cycle. I was asked recently what the blend is, so I decided to post here as I merge two different recipes into one. The first recipe is from Free + Native's website and the second is from Claire Ragozzino's Vidya Living though blended by Free + Native. I do a slight variation on this recipe and will sometimes add other herbs that I feel I need at the time.

Free + Native's Tea of the Feminine (adapted)

1/2 cup Red Raspberry Leaf

1/2 cup Stinging Nettles Leaf

1/2 cup Alfalfa Leaf

1/2 cup Red Clover

2 tbsp Peppermint Leaf

2 tbsp Oatstraw

2 tbsp Lemon Balm

2 tbsp Licorice Root, separated

Optional: Add in 1/2 tsp per cup chamomile or rose for calming and heart opening effects.

Mix all ingredients except licorice together in a large bowl. Store in a large jar with a label and date. To brew, bring 1.5 cups filtered water to a boil in small saucepan. Add 1/2 tsp (or a little more if you like) to boiling water, lower to a simmer, and cover for 10 minutes. Turn heat off. Add level tablespoon of other blended herbs and steep for an additional 7-10 minutes off the heat with cover on. Strain and enjoy.

P.S. I haven't added the health benefits of each herb to this recipe because Free + Native does a complete job of explaining on the websites above so I encourage you to head over there to learn more. While these herbs should not contraindicate with any medications, they should also be used slowly, building over time.