Name: Get Happy

Brand: The Republic of Tea

Type: Rooibos-based tisane

Form: Paper tea bags

Review: This is another splendid offering from The Republic of Tea’s “Wellness” line of rooibos-based infusions. The herbs in “Get Happy”, which include lemon balm, lemon myrtle, St. John’s Wort and rhodiola are traditionally used to combat stress and improve mood. As always, I don’t want to comment on the efficacy of this particular blend for any particular physical or medical condition: I’m just concerned with how it tastes.

I have long been a serious fan of using lemon balm and lemon myrtle in tisanes and flavored tea blends, because I feel that they provide a lovely lemon flavor without tasting “stale” the way dried lemon or lemon rind often does. This blend combines the honey-sweetness of rooibos with these lemony flavors, creating an amber-colored drink that is both sweet and slightly tart. It is wonderfully soothing when served hot but transforms to a super-refreshing iced tea as well. Incidentally, the herb rhodiola is considered by some to have some mild stimulant properties, so you may want to be careful about drinking it in the evening.

Preparation Tips: Use boiling water to infuse “Get Happy.” The more concentrated this tisane is, the sweeter (and tastier) it is. Try using double tea bags for a serious mug or glass of this tisane. Don’t be afraid of long steeps, either.

Serving Tips: This is a delightful, lemony tisane that is splendid both hot and cold. Try it both ways to see which you prefer.

Warning: Some people are allergic to the herbs used in the formulation of tisanes. Herbs can also sometimes interfere with other medications that you may be taking. Speak to your doctor before drinking herbal infusions if you are concerned about the herbs interacting with medications or possibly aggravating any medical conditions that you may have.

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