Since today is Veteran’s Day I thought it would be interesting to see how herbal tea and war times went together. It might surprise you to learn that herbal tea has deep roots in wartime history. When supplies were scarce and imported goods like traditional black tea became hard to find, people turned to the land—and their creativity—to fill their teacups. Herbal teas became not just a comfort, but a symbol of resilience and resourcefulness.
During the American Revolution, colonists famously boycotted British tea after the Boston Tea Party. Instead, they brewed “Liberty Tea” made from herbs like mint, raspberry leaf, and chamomile. These homemade blends carried more than just flavor—they represented independence and determination. Every sip was a quiet protest, a statement of self-reliance.
Later, during the World Wars, rationing made imported tea nearly impossible to get. Once again, communities leaned on what they could grow or forage. Soldiers and families alike brewed teas from local herbs such as rose hips, dandelion, nettle, and lemon balm. Not only were these herbs easy to find, but they were also packed with vitamins—especially vitamin C—helping boost nutrition when fresh food was limited.
Herbal teas also offered comfort in times of uncertainty. A warm cup soothed nerves, eased colds, and brought a small sense of normalcy to soldiers abroad and families at home. In a world turned upside down, that simple ritual—a pot of tea shared around the table—helped people hold onto hope.
Today, when we sip herbal tea, we may not be facing the same hardships, but that spirit of endurance still lives on. Each cup reminds us of those who came before us—who used what they had, trusted nature’s gifts, and found calm in the storm. Herbal tea, in many ways, has always been more than a drink—it’s a quiet act of strength.
I invite you to Simply Herbal Tea to see if you find some loose leaf tea blends that you would enjoy. Please remember our veterans and their families as you sip on our heritage drink of herbal tea.
