Calm at home: tea, incense and aromatic herbs

Here we bring together mint, lemon verbena and lavender: Moroccan customs, how to use them and precautions.

Mint (النعناع)

Mint is the symbol of Moroccan hospitality and the base of the mint tea served to guests.

How to use: One small spoon in a cup of hot (not boiling) water, 5–10 minutes, then strain. One or two cups a day.

Lemon verbena (اللويزة)

Lemon verbena has a lemony scent; it is added to tea or drunk alone as an evening infusion.

How to use: One small spoon in a cup of hot (not boiling) water, 5–10 minutes, then strain. One or two cups a day.

Lavender (الخزامى)

Dried lavender scents wardrobes; its oil is used for massage.

How to use: External use only: a few drops diluted in a carrier oil for a gentle massage. Do not swallow or apply to broken skin or near the eyes.

How to add mint to your recipes

• Simple infusion: a small spoon in a cup of hot water with a few mint leaves and a little honey, or add it to the teapot.
• Write down the recipe and amount you like so you can repeat the same taste.
• Start with a small amount and try mint in one recipe before making it a habit.
• At family gatherings, mint can be served with tea or a traditional breakfast.

A simple routine with mint

• Make mint part of a calm evening moment: a warm cup after dinner.
• Keep it simple: one or two regular steps beat many irregular ones.
• Watch how your skin or hair responds and stop if any irritation appears.

General precautions

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children and anyone on medication: ask a doctor first.
• Patch-test oils and skin products on a small area; avoid the eyes.
• Store cool and dry, out of reach of children.
• Moderation first; herbs do not replace a varied diet.

General, traditional information only; not medical advice.