Simples

Teas brewed from a single herb are commonly called simples, a lovely phrase from olden times. Experience has taught me that simples often have the most potency; the purity of that single plant essence can come through undiluted. There are a plentitude of helpful, healing, and tasty simples you can brew, but yarrow is one you should brew regularly. Boil one pint of spring water. Combine with a half-ounce of dried yarrow in your favorite crockery pot. Steep for ten minutes and strain with a nonmetallic implement, such as an inexpensive bamboo strainer or cheesecloth. Sweeten with honey; clover honey intensifies the positivity of this potion and makes it a supremely lucky drink. Yarrow brings courage and nourishes a strong heart as it is a major medicinal; it is also useful for fever. All these aspects make yarrow one of the most strengthening of all simples.