Back on the ranch, there were a few things folks reached for when the weather turned rough or the days wore long. None of it was called medicine back then. It was simply what people leaned on to stay comfortable through long winters.
Grandpa Miles Ledger, a retired Montana rancher, remembers these simple tea traditions from evenings spent indoors after the work was done. Warm mugs, quiet houses, and habits passed down without much discussion—just the way things were done.
The Quiet Remedy~ Thyme Tea
Thyme tea was common when the cold air felt heavy in the chest. Nobody made a fuss about it — you just poured a cup, stayed near the stove, and let the evening slow down.
Organic Thyme Herbal Tea (Loose Leaf or Tea Bags)
Peppermint Tea~Settling the Day
Peppermint showed up after heavy meals, especially in winter when food stuck with you longer. A warm cup helped things settle before the day finally ended. Its clean, familiar flavor made it a regular part of winter evenings. Find traditional peppermint tea ensure you have on hand
Pure Peppermint Leaf Tea (Caffeine-Free)
Browse traditional peppermint tea options
Chamomile Tea~When the House Grows Still
Chamomile came out when the body was tired but the mind wouldn’t slow down. You’d sit at the table, let the house grow quiet, and take it slow.
Whole-Flower Chamomile Tea
Ginger in Hot Water~The Steady Heat
Ginger in hot water was for the kind of chill that lingered even indoors. It brought warmth back steady — not sudden. Dried Ginger Root Tea or Organic Ginger Slices
Honey & Lemon in Warm Water~A Familiar Comfort
Honey with lemon in warm water—everyone knew that one. Wind, dust, and cold air were hard on the throat, and this simple combination made evenings easier. Nothing fancy, just familiar comfort.
Raw Honey & Lemon Herbal Blend or Natural Honey and Lemon Essentials
"The Way We Did Things"
None of this was called medicine back then. It was just what people leaned on to stay comfortable through long winters.
That’s just the way we did things, back then.
