Herbal Tea: Bee Soothed (Sore and Inflamed Throats and Digestive Support)

Made by hand in the U.S. in small batches with 100% organic ingredients. Gluten-Free, Corn-Free, Soy-Free, Nut-Free, Alcohol-Free. No Artificial Colors, Flavors, Fragrances, or Preservatives.

Ingredients Classic: Althaea officinalis (Marshmallow) Root*, Ulmus rubra (Slippery Elm) Bark*, Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice) Root*, Citrus x sinensis (Orange) Peel*, Zingiber officinale (Ginger) Root*, Cinnamomum verum (Ceylon Cinnamon) Chip*

Ingredients Pregnancy Safe: Althaea officinalis (Marshmallow) Root*, Ulmus rubra (Slippery Elm) Bark*, Citrus x sinensis (Orange) Peel*, Zingiber officinale (Ginger) Root*, Cinnamomum verum (Ceylon Cinnamon) Chip*

* Certified Organic ingredient

Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis)
Marshmallow root is one of my favorite herbs when working with mucilaginous preparations. It has a long history of use in traditional herbalism and is particularly valued for its demulcent qualities. The root contains naturally occurring polysaccharides that absorb water and form a soft, slippery mucilage, giving herbal infusions a distinctive coating texture. Herbalists have traditionally appreciated marshmallow root in preparations intended to soothe and moisten delicate tissues, particularly those of the throat and digestive tract. Unlike many aromatic herbs, marshmallow root does not rely on volatile oils for its characteristic properties, making water-based preparations particularly well suited to this plant. It forms an important part of Bee Soothed Tea, contributing much of the rich, silky texture that makes this blend so distinctive.

Slippery Elm Bark (Ulmus rubra)
Slippery elm has been valued in traditional North American herbalism for generations, particularly for the unique qualities of its inner bark. Like marshmallow root, slippery elm contains an abundance of mucilage-forming polysaccharides that become slippery and slightly gelatinous when combined with water. This characteristic has made it a familiar demulcent herb in traditional preparations for the throat and digestive system. Its naturally mild, earthy flavor also complements the other roots and aromatic botanicals in this blend. I chose to pair slippery elm with marshmallow root because their similar mucilaginous qualities work beautifully together, creating a rich and pleasantly coating infusion. Slippery elm is one of the defining ingredients in Bee Soothed Tea and contributes significantly to its characteristic texture. Because responsible sourcing is especially important with this particular herb, I purchase my slippery elm from Mountain Rose Herbs, a supplier I trust for its attention to botanical quality and sourcing practices.

Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Licorice root is a wonderfully versatile herb with a long history of use in traditional Chinese, Ayurvedic, and Western herbal practices. It is particularly well known for its naturally sweet flavor, which comes primarily from a compound called glycyrrhizin. Herbalists have traditionally valued licorice as a demulcent and harmonizing herb, often incorporating it into formulas alongside other roots and botanicals. Licorice also contains flavonoids, saponins, and other naturally occurring plant compounds that have attracted considerable scientific interest. In Bee Soothed Tea, licorice contributes a pleasant natural sweetness while complementing the rich, mucilaginous qualities of marshmallow root and slippery elm. Because licorice is not appropriate for everyone, I also offer a licorice-free version of this blend.

Ginger Root (Zingiber officinale)
Ginger is one of those herbs I find myself reaching for again and again because of its versatility! It has been used for thousands of years in traditional herbal practices and is particularly appreciated for its warming, aromatic qualities. Ginger contains naturally occurring compounds called gingerols and shogaols, which contribute to its distinctive pungency and have been the subject of extensive scientific research. Herbalists have traditionally regarded ginger as a warming carminative and aromatic digestive herb, frequently incorporating it into teas and other preparations. In this blend, ginger provides a gentle warmth that complements the softer, more mucilaginous qualities of marshmallow root and slippery elm. Its distinctive flavor also helps create a more balanced and enjoyable infusion.

Orange Peel (Citrus sinensis)
Orange peel is a wonderful addition to herbal tea blends, offering much more than its familiar citrus flavor. It has a long history of use in traditional herbal preparations, particularly as an aromatic ingredient in digestive teas. Orange peel naturally contains fragrant volatile oils, including limonene, along with flavonoids such as hesperidin and other botanical compounds. Herbalists have traditionally appreciated citrus peels for their bright, aromatic character and their ability to complement heavier roots and more earthy herbs. In Bee Soothed Tea, orange peel adds a pleasant citrus note that helps balance the sweetness of licorice and the warming qualities of ginger and cinnamon. It's a simple ingredient that contributes beautifully to the overall flavor and character of the blend.

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)
Cinnamon has been treasured for thousands of years as both a culinary spice and a traditional herbal ingredient. Its wonderfully warm, sweet aroma comes from naturally occurring volatile compounds, particularly cinnamaldehyde. Cinnamon has traditionally been regarded as a warming, aromatic herb and is commonly included in herbal preparations alongside ginger and other complementary botanicals. It also contains a variety of polyphenols and other plant compounds that contribute to its distinctive botanical profile. In Bee Soothed Tea, cinnamon adds a familiar warmth and subtle sweetness that help balance the earthy roots and rich mucilaginous texture of the infusion. I love the way it brings the entire blend together without overpowering the more delicate characteristics of the other herbs.

These descriptions reflect traditional herbal use and formulation principles rather than intended medical outcomes.

How to Use:
1. Add the contents of one packet to a heat-safe jar or other suitable vessel with a lid.
2. Pour in 2–4 cups of hot, just-simmering water. Using 2 cups will produce a much more concentrated infusion.
3. Cover and allow the herbs to steep for a minimum of 15 minutes.
4. Strain, gently pressing the herbs to extract as much of the infusion as possible.
5. Enjoy warm or cooled, sipping slowly throughout the day.
Each packet is intended for one preparation, although half a packet may be used when a smaller amount is desired.

Please do not boil the herbs. This blend is specifically formulated to take advantage of the naturally occurring mucilage in marshmallow root and slippery elm. A covered infusion allows these herbs to release their characteristic slippery, coating texture without the need for prolonged boiling.

Who It's For
Bee Soothed Tea is intended for adults who enjoy traditional demulcent herbal preparations and rich, mucilaginous infusions.

Available in two varieties:
Classic Blend: Our original formulation containing marshmallow root, slippery elm, licorice root, ginger root, orange peel, and Ceylon cinnamon.

Licorice-Free Blend: The same thoughtfully selected herbs, without licorice root, for those who prefer or need to avoid that ingredient.

Additional Notes
Marshmallow root and slippery elm contain naturally occurring mucilage, which gives the prepared tea its distinctive, slightly thickened texture.

The concentration and consistency will vary depending on the amount of water used and the length of steeping. A longer steep may produce a richer infusion.

The licorice-free option was developed for those wishing to avoid licorice root.

Safety Notes
- Consult your healthcare professional before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medications, or managing a medical condition.
- Medication interactions: Marshmallow root and slippery elm may delay or reduce the absorption of some oral medications. As a precaution, separate this tea from oral medications by at least 2 hours, or follow the guidance of your pharmacist or healthcare professional.
- Licorice precautions: The Classic Blend contains licorice root, which may increase blood pressure, lower potassium levels, and interact with certain medications, particularly with frequent or prolonged use.
- Individuals with high blood pressure, heart or kidney conditions, or those taking diuretics, corticosteroids, or certain heart medications should avoid the Classic Blend unless approved by their healthcare professional.
- Avoid use if you have a known allergy or sensitivity to any ingredient.
- Discontinue use if an adverse reaction occurs.
- Keep dry herbs out of reach of children.

Storage
Store unopened packets in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Once prepared, keep the tea covered and refrigerated promptly. Use within 3 days, provided it has been prepared and stored hygienically. Discard sooner if there are any changes in aroma, appearance, or quality.

Disclaimer
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.