The summer has become increasingly hot and humid in the Midwest where we’re visiting family. There’s a huge mulberry tree in the backyard, and the berries are already turning pink. It’s the perfect weather to make them nice and sweet.
You can make mulberry tea from fresh or dried leaves. As with many natural substances, there are certain health benefits — and risks. Pregnant woman, those with hypoglycemia, kidney disorders, and those expecting surgery within the next two weeks should abstain, among others. Please do your research if you have existing health conditions.
To make mulberry leaf tea with fresh leaves, take 3 leaves, clean them, cut them into strips and add them to four cups of boiling water. Once the water turns green, filter out the leaves and enjoy, possibly with a teaspoon or so of honey. Some say eating unripe berries and leaves raw can lead to intoxication and hallucinations, similar to the effects of plants used during religious ceremonies. Fortunately, if you’re not into that kind of thing, it’s fairly easy to dry them in the sun.
The taste of dried mulberry tea is similar to green tea, while the fresh variety kind of tastes the way grass clippings smell.
You can also make mulberry ice tea using the juice from the berries. (10/10 preferred.)
While you’re waiting for the effects to kick in, try an intriguing paracozy mystery.