French Cherry Stalk/Stem Herbal Tea - Tisane - Infusion

A simple recipe/method, which my very elderly French neighbour gave to me when I lived in the Poitou region of France – she had about a dozen cherry trees. The French drink this herbal "Tisane" regularly, especially ladies who diet, as the cherry stalk is known to help elimination and reduce water retention! The cherry stalks/stems contain potassium, salts and tannin, and it is known as a powerful diuretic. It is also used for preventing urinary tract infections. It is drunk by steeping the cherry stems in boiling water, and can be drunk hot or cold - with or without sugar. It has a fruity-woody flavour, and is a very refreshing drink.

• Ready In: 168 hrs 15 mins
• Yields: 1 159g Jar

Ingredients

• 2 -3  kg  fresh  cherry stems
• 1⁄2 liter boiling water
•  sugar

Directions

1. This is a very pleasurable and easy method, whilst you are enjoying your fresh cherries, simply discard the stems/stalks and keep to one side!
2. Spread out on a drying rack - or on some newspaper in a dark, dry & airy room - cover if necessary, and allow to dry naturally for about 4 days to one week.
3. Store the dried cherry stems/stalks in an airtight jar or container.
4. When you wish to make a batch of tisane up, take a large handful of cherry stems/stalks & add to 1/2 litre boiling water; Boil for about 5 minutes and then turn the heat off and allow to steep for about 4 hours or overnight.
5. Drain well, and either drink the tisane cold or reheat and add sugar if desired.
6. Makes about 100g to 150g of cherry stalk infusion.