Best Herbs for Iced Tea: 12 Refreshing Herbs to Sip All Summer Long
When the weather heats up, few things are as refreshing as a glass of iced tea.
But here's the fun part...
You don't have to stop at traditional tea.
Many herbs make incredible iced teas too.
Some are bright and fruity.
Some are cooling and refreshing.
Some taste like they were made specifically for sitting on a porch swing on a hot summer afternoon.
If you're looking to expand your summer drink menu, here are some of our favorite herbs for iced tea.
1. Hibiscus
If you've ever enjoyed a bright red herbal tea, chances are you've met hibiscus.
Hibiscus creates a beautiful ruby-colored drink with a naturally tart, cranberry-like flavor.
Why people love it:
- Gorgeous color
- Refreshing taste
- Excellent served cold
- Pairs well with fruit
Try pairing it with:
- Orange
- Strawberry
- Raspberry
- Rose hips
2. Peppermint
Few herbs feel as cooling as peppermint.
Served over ice, peppermint tea can be incredibly refreshing on a hot day.
Why people love it:
- Crisp flavor
- Cooling sensation
- Great on its own
- Blends beautifully with fruit
Try pairing it with:
- Lemon
- Lime
- Cucumber
- Watermelon
3. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is one of those herbs that seems made for summer.
It has a light citrusy flavor that's refreshing without being overpowering.
Why people love it:
- Bright flavor
- Easy to drink
- Great for beginners
- Wonderful in tea blends
Try pairing it with:
- Mint
- Lemon
- Peach
- Chamomile
4. Rooibos
Rooibos makes a fantastic iced tea base.
Its naturally smooth flavor works beautifully both hot and cold.
Why people love it:
- Naturally caffeine-free
- Smooth flavor
- Rarely bitter
- Great with fruit
Try pairing it with:
- Peach
- Vanilla
- Orange
- Cinnamon
5. Chamomile
Most people think of chamomile as a bedtime tea.
But don't overlook it as an iced tea ingredient.
Its mild apple-like flavor works surprisingly well chilled.
Try pairing it with:
- Honey
- Lemon
- Lavender
- Peach
6. Rose Hips
Rose hips add brightness and natural tartness to tea blends.
They also pair wonderfully with many summer fruits.
Try pairing them with:
- Hibiscus
- Strawberry
- Raspberry
- Orange
The combination creates a colorful and refreshing iced tea.
7. Lavender
A little lavender goes a long way.
Used carefully, it can add a lovely floral note to summer tea blends.
Try pairing it with:
- Lemon balm
- Chamomile
- Lemon
- Vanilla
Think "summer garden in a glass."
8. Tulsi (Holy Basil)
Tulsi has a unique flavor that's slightly spicy, slightly herbal, and incredibly interesting.
It makes a refreshing iced tea for people looking to try something different.
Try pairing it with:
- Lemon
- Mint
- Orange peel
9. Nettle Leaf
Nettle may not be the first herb people think about for iced tea, but it deserves a spot on the list.
Its mild, earthy flavor blends beautifully with fruit and citrus.
Try pairing it with:
- Lemon
- Orange
- Mint
- Hibiscus
10. Spearmint
Spearmint is slightly sweeter and gentler than peppermint.
Many people find it especially refreshing in iced teas.
Try pairing it with:
- Peach
- Strawberry
- Lemon
- Cucumber
11. Lemongrass
If you love citrus flavors, lemongrass is worth exploring.
It adds a bright lemony note without the acidity of actual lemon juice.
Try pairing it with:
- Mint
- Ginger
- Orange peel
12. Fruit & Herb Blends
Sometimes the best iced tea isn't a single herb at all.
Some of our favorite summer combinations include:
Strawberry Lemon Balm
Fresh, fruity, and refreshing.
Hibiscus Orange
Bright and colorful.
Peach Rooibos
Smooth and naturally sweet.
Mint Lemon Cooler
A summer classic.
Chamomile Peach
Gentle and surprisingly delicious.
Cold Brew Makes It Even Easier
Many of these herbs work beautifully as cold brew teas.
Simply:
1. Add herbs to a pitcher.
2. Fill with cold water.
3. Refrigerate overnight.
4. Strain and enjoy.
Easy summer refreshment.
Create Your Own Summer Signature Blend
One of the most enjoyable parts of herbal tea is experimenting.
Mix and match flavors.
Try new combinations.
Discover unexpected favorites.
You may find that your perfect summer iced tea blend is one you've never seen in a recipe before.
And that's part of the fun.
Sip Your Way Through Summer
Whether you're relaxing on the porch, working in the garden, or cooling off after a long day, herbal iced tea is a simple way to enjoy the flavors of summer.
Start with one herb.
Try a blend.
Experiment with fresh fruit.
Before long, you'll have an entire collection of favorite summer tea recipes.
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Continue Exploring Tea
You may also enjoy:
- How to Make Cold Brew Tea
- Rooibos Tea Explained
- What Is Herbal Tea If It Isn't Really Tea?
- How to Blend Your Own Tea
- Fruit and Herb Tea Combinations
Recommended Products & Resources
Building your knowledge is one of the best investments you can make in your wellness journey. Whether you're interested in herbal traditions, natural living, self-care, or women's wellness, there are many excellent books and tools available to help you learn more. Browse our recommended resources below.
- Electric Tea Kettle
- Unbleached Tea Bags
- Iced Tea Pitcher
- Tea Infuser Mug
- Iced Tea Glasses
- Match Tea Set
- Tea Tin Storage
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