Marigold tea, made from the petals of marigold flowers (also known as calendula), is known for its medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and digestive benefits. If you have marigold flowers growing in your garden, you can easily dry them to make your own soothing tea at home. Here’s a simple guide on how to dry marigolds for tea.
1. Harvest the Marigold Flowers
- Pick the Flowers: Choose fresh, vibrant marigold flowers from your garden. The best time to harvest is in the morning, after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day.
- Select Healthy Flowers: Look for fully bloomed flowers that are free from pests or damage. Gently cut them from the plant using scissors or pruning shears.
2. Prepare the Flowers for Drying
- Remove Petals: After harvesting, gently pluck the petals from the flower heads. You can dry the entire flower head if you prefer, but separating the petals can speed up the drying process.
- Clean the Petals: If necessary, lightly rinse the petals under cool water to remove any dirt or insects. Let them air-dry on a clean towel to remove excess moisture before drying them.
3. Drying the Marigold Flowers
There are a few different methods to dry marigold flowers for tea, depending on your preference and the tools you have at home.
Air Drying (Traditional Method)
- Step 1: Spread the marigold petals in a single layer on a clean drying screen, paper towel, or baking sheet.
- Step 2: Place the tray in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. A shaded area or indoors near a window works well.
- Step 3: Leave the petals to dry for 1-2 weeks. Turn them occasionally to ensure they dry evenly. The petals will be ready when they feel crispy and break easily when handled.
Using a Dehydrator
- Step 1: Place the petals or flower heads in a single layer on the dehydrator trays.
- Step 2: Set the dehydrator to a low temperature (95-110°F or 35-45°C).
- Step 3: Let the flowers dry for 4-6 hours or until completely crisp. Check them periodically to prevent over-drying.
Oven Drying (Quick Method)
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to its lowest setting (usually around 170°F or 75°C).
- Step 2: Spread the marigold petals on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Step 3: Place the sheet in the oven and leave the oven door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape.
- Step 4: Dry the petals for 1-2 hours, checking every 30 minutes until they are crisp.
4. Store the Dried Marigold Petals
Once the petals are completely dry, store them in an airtight container, such as a glass jar, away from sunlight and moisture. Properly stored dried marigolds can last for up to a year.
5. How to Make Marigold Tea
To make marigold tea, simply steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried marigold petals in a cup of hot water for 5-10 minutes. Strain and enjoy the tea warm or cold. You can also combine marigold with other herbs like chamomile or mint for added flavor and benefits.
Health Benefits of Marigold Tea
- Anti-Inflammatory: Helps reduce inflammation, making it useful for soothing sore throats, digestive issues, or skin irritations.
- Wound Healing: Marigold tea can be applied topically to promote wound healing and relieve skin conditions like eczema.
- Digestive Health: It supports digestive health and can help ease cramps, bloating, and indigestion.
Final Thoughts
Drying marigolds for tea is an easy and natural way to preserve their medicinal benefits. Whether you air dry, use a dehydrator, or opt for the quick oven method, dried marigold petals can be stored and used to make a soothing, health-boosting tea whenever you need it.