Southern-Style St. John’s Wort Iced Tea

Southern-Style St. John’s Wort Iced Tea
A summer sweet tea with a purpose

There’s something sacred about returning to a rhythm that feels like home. This tea was my reminder. Made in a pitcher passed down from my grandma, this blend isn’t just about taste—it’s about care, memory, and emotional restoration. It’s also the first in a new series I’m starting, where I fill my pitcher with different herbal drinks each week. This week? We’re starting off with something soulful: a Southern-style iced tea infused with St. John’s Wort, fresh mint, and lemon.

🌿 Why St. John’s Wort?

St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) has been used for centuries to uplift the spirit and support the nervous system. It’s known to:

• Ease symptoms of mild to moderate depression and anxiety

• Support nervous system regulation

• Help with seasonal sadness or emotional fatigue

• Gently brighten mood and mental clarity

When paired with mint (cooling, soothing, and opening) and lemon (clarifying and energizing), this tea becomes a refreshing blend for the body and the heart.

🍋 Full Recipe: Southern-Style St. John’s Wort Iced Tea

Ingredients

• 2 tsp dried Saint John’s Wort (or ⅛ cup if you're multiplying like I did)

• 4–6 cups water (depending on strength)

• 1–2 tbsp honey or agave (adjust to your liking)

• 1–2 tbsp cane sugar (optional, for sweet tea vibe)

• 1 lemon, sliced

• Handful of fresh mint leaves

• Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Add water and St. John’s Wort to a pot and bring to a low boil.

2. Reduce heat and simmer gently (like a decoction) for 7–10 minutes.

3. Turn off heat and let it steep as it cools slightly.

4. Add in your honey/agave while warm so it dissolves. Stir well.

5. Drop in lemon slices, sugar (if using), and fresh mint leaves. Let it all infuse while the tea cools.

6. Strain and pour into a pitcher. Refrigerate until chilled.

7. Serve over ice and enjoy.

✨ Notes from My Kitchen

• I’m not a fan of overly sweet drinks, so I kept this one gentle. You can absolutely adjust the sweetness to your preference.

• The mint isn’t optional in my opinion—it truly brings this blend to life.

• This tea is ideal for those moments when you need something soothing, cooling, and emotionally grounding.

Let me know if you make it!
Tag me @theherbmixologist and drop a comment with what you want to see next in the pitcher series 🍃