Herbal Imbibing

by Katie Faulkner

Hot or cold, brewed or steeped, a tasty trend among beverage businesses these days is employing the powerful benefits and unmistakable flavors of herbs. By infusing their concoctions with herbs, these local drink slingers are presenting some of the most beautiful, flavorful, and unique glassfuls around. Here is just a sip of what Chattanooga has to offer in the way of herbal imbibing.

Elizabeth Boston, manager

Matcha Latte

By Starbucks NorthShore

“This delicious beverage starts with a slightly sweetened ground Japanese green tea powder called matcha which is incorporated into your choice of dairy, dairy alternative, or water. The tradition of matcha as a ceremonial drink can be traced back in Japan for almost 1,000 years. It is known worldwide for its restorative health benefits and its meditative ceremonial preparation. I love the hot matcha tea latte, but this summer I have been enjoying it over ice, unsweetened, with coconut milk on our patio. It’s a beautiful pairing!”

(above) photos by Emily Long

Karen Brokaw, owner

Rosemary Bluebellvine Kombucha

By Blue Indian Kombucha

“Sage, rosemary, basil, and mint are such pretty herbs. In addition to their fragrance and aesthetic, these powerful plants are full of health benefits. We have always infused fresh local herbs into our brews for their flavor along with their nutrient density. We love the earthy essence they lend to kombucha’s distinct tang.”

(above) photo by Emily Long

Monica Smith, owner

Golden Milk Latte

By Mean Mug Coffeehouse

“Including certain herbs and superfoods into your diet is such an easy and natural way to boost your health. If your daily routine is busy, you likely don’t always get the ideal breakfast and lunch. We offer a selection of superfood drinks to help get that daily supplement. For example, our Golden Milk Latte is made with turmeric, which has health benefits that include the potential to prevent heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and cancer, along with natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.”

Trent Brockie, owner

Pineapple Holy Basil Moringa Kombucha

By Muse + Metta  Kombucha

“By infusing our beverages with a variety of herbs, our brewers are able to create kombuchas with unique flavor profiles and health benefits. This Pineapple | Holy Basil | Moringa blend features  adaptogenic herbs, which help ease the effects of stress and support the health of the overall nervous system.”

(above) photo by Emily Long

Hillary Libby, owner

Soul Soother Blend

By Wildflower Tea Shoppe & Apothecary

“When life has you feeling a little overwhelmed, frazzled, or stressed out, Soul Soother is the perfect remedy. A floral and herbaceous blend of nervines – plants such as chamomile, lemon balm, and passion flower to name a few – help soothe and support your nervous system. Brew up a cup and sip yourself into relaxation!”