Our Teas – House of SZO

Blog Title: Final Stretch – Baby Coming, Bundles Brewing

With just two weeks left before I meet my baby boy, life feels like a soft swirl of endings and beginnings. I’m tired, grateful, busy, grounded—and most of all, present. There’s a sacred rhythm to these final days of pregnancy, and somehow, I’m managing to ride the wave while still preparing for a powerful season of growth and release.

This summer, while my children are home and the world is warm, I’ve been pouring the last bits of my energy into completing product launches for Seren & Tea, A Touch of Zaharah, and Osiris Amir Essentials.

Let’s start with the tea…

🍵 Seren & Tea – Bundles & Additions

Seren & Tea originally launched with 6 signature blends. Now, we’re preparing to release 9 new blends—some medicinal, some sweet and simple, all herbal, and all healing in their own way. Our Forest Fuel mushroom coffee is also being reformulated to include even more functional benefits to support energy, focus, and immune health.

To make your experience easier, I’ve created 8 unique bundles, plus the complete collection and a sample bundle:

🧘🏾‍♀️ Serenity Bundle

A full-body, mind, and spirit experience.

Chai Embrace Golden Milk Serenity Blend Eldermint Hibiscus Fusion Herbonel 4 oz Forest Fuel

🌅 Awakening Bundle

A warming, grounding way to start the day.

Chai Embrace Forest Fuel

✨ Golden Seren Bundle

Anti-inflammatory and energizing.

Golden Milk Forest Fuel

🧠 Soul Trio

Mind, mood, and movement.

Golden Milk Chai Embrace Forest Fuel

🩺 Health Bundle

Targeted wellness support for the body.

Herbonel – herbal pain & inflammation relief Elder Essence – immune system support Golden Milk – anti-inflammatory Plexus Ease – upset stomach, nausea, bloating Serenity Blend – calming support

🧊 Duplicity Bundle (Iced or Hot)

Refreshing blends that work hot or cold.

Hibiscus Fusion Mint & Black Citrus Radiance Green Zing

🫖 Complete Collection

All 13 tea blends + a larger coffee option.

Includes all available teas 8 oz Forest Fuel Optional add-on: Sacred Supply (+$20)

📦 Sample Bundle

Perfect for first-timers or gift sets.

Small samples of each tea Each sample makes 2–3 cups

These bundles are carefully crafted not just to taste good, but to serve a purpose—whether that’s calming nerves, easing pain, supporting digestion, or simply inviting a moment of stillness in your day. And of course… they’re beautiful.

🌿 A Touch of Zaharah – Initial Product Line

We’re also putting the finishing touches on the first collection of body care products from A Touch of Zaharah. This line was born from the needs of my own family—gentle, toxin-free products made with clean ingredients and real purpose.

Launching Products:

Melanin Revival Clay Mask Toothpaste Powder + Paste Magnesium Spray Colloidal Oatmeal Bath Heavy Metal Detox Bath Laundry Soap Spa Soap Bars Yoni Steam Bath Salts Deodorant

📘 Osiris Amir Essentials – Digital Tools for Natural Living

This brand is starting with three digital offerings that meet people right where they are—ready to live better, naturally, without breaking the bank.

Launching Products:

Plant Transit Cookbook – plant-based meals to nourish your family Parasite Cleanse Guide – clear, educational support for natural detox Frugal Mama’s DIY Guide – make your own home and body products on a budget

As a soon-to-be mama of three, digital products are doable—and this is just the beginning for Osiris Amir Essentials. More to come when the time is right.

So yes… I’m still busy.

Still dreaming.

Still producing in a methodical, soulful way.

Balancing household responsibilities, healing work, my children’s needs, and birthing life into these businesses… all while preparing to give birth in the most sacred way possible.

My honey has a saying I carry with me:

F.L.O.W. – Follow Life’s Outcomes Willingly.

And that’s where I’m at.

Following the divine rhythm, doing what I can each day, and allowing myself to rest in the knowledge that what’s for me won’t pass me by.

Thank you for flowing with me.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

New life is almost here—in more ways than one.

With love,

Daria Spenser

House of SZO – A Healer’s Legacy

Herbonel: A Natural Alternative in a Time of Uncertainty

Tea & Herbal Wisdom | #Herbonel

Inspired by controversy. Grounded in wisdom. Powered by plants.

Herbonel: Our Gentle Wellness Warrior

Rounding out our launching teas in honor of Serenity and Autism Awareness Month is Herbonel. This blend was born from concern and curiosity—sparked by the controversy surrounding acetaminophen advisories and its potential links to autism. I wanted to create something that gave moms peace of mind. A tea that could support the body gently and naturally, without the harshness or risks of over-the-counter medications.

Herbonel was originally formulated for my own personal use—especially during cold and flu season. I’ve used it to ease fevers, stomach bugs, body aches, and general inflammation. I often blended it with our Eldermint tea for improved taste and extra immune support. It became a staple in my self-care routine—especially during recovery periods or when I felt like I was coming down with something.

In its original version, Herbonel included white willow bark for its pain-relieving properties. I often paired it with Golden Milk to ease joint pain and inflammation. But over time, I realized I wanted to make the formula safer and gentler for children, should other parents want to use it for their little ones too.

So I removed the white willow bark and feverfew, replacing them with calming and child-friendly herbs that still offer solid support. The current Herbonel blend includes:

Yarrow Leaf

A powerful yet gentle herb known for its ability to support fevers and circulation. Yarrow helps regulate body temperature through sweating, making it ideal during colds and flus. It also supports the immune system and soothes inflammation.

Elderflower

Light, floral, and immune-boosting, elderflower is a classic herb for fevers, congestion, and respiratory issues. It helps open the pores to promote sweating and supports healthy sinus and respiratory function.

Lemon Balm

A gentle nervine that calms the nervous system and promotes restful sleep. It’s known for soothing anxiety and stress, as well as supporting digestion. Safe for most children and often used in herbal blends for toddlers.

Ginger

Warming and stimulating, ginger supports digestion, reduces nausea, and encourages circulation. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a perfect addition for immune support and comfort during illness.

Chamomile

A soothing herb used for centuries with children and adults alike. Chamomile eases digestive upset, calms irritability, supports rest, and offers gentle anti-inflammatory action. A wonderful herb for both internal use and baths.

Personally, I only use this tea in very small amounts in a bath for Zaharah, since she’s still a toddler. For Serenity, I prepare it as a tea occasionally, using about ½ teaspoon of dried herb per cup. Sometimes I blend it with a couple herbs from our Eldermint blend, or I’ll use the full blend depending on the need—whether it’s calming the nervous system, clearing congestion, or supporting rest and recovery.

Please exercise caution when using herbs with children.

Always start with small amounts, observe your child, and when in doubt—consult your doctor or an experienced herbalist. Each child is unique, and what’s gentle for one may not be suitable for another.

Disclaimer:

I am not a doctor. This blend is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult your healthcare provider, especially if pregnant, nursing, or taking medications. Always trust your body and do what feels best for you and your family.

You can keep this tea on hand for the days when your family needs support—and you want to turn to Mother Nature first.

It’s versatile, effective, and made from the earth.

Sip. Soak. Support. Naturally.

Daria

Founder of House of SZO

Connect With Us:
🛒Shop With Us: House of SZO Hub
📧Email: houseofszoinfo@gmail.com
Instagram: @houseofszo

Golden Milk: A Comforting Cup of Relief

Tea & Herbal Wisdom | #GoldenMilk

A healing blend crafted from pain, purpose, and a mother’s intuition.

Our Golden Milk is a classic favorite here at Seren & Tea. I created this blend because I wanted a more enjoyable and nourishing way to drink turmeric tea. At the time, I was struggling with joint pain and backaches from an old work injury—when I was a certified nursing assistant, I developed a disc bulge in my back. I carried that injury with me into my next job as a housekeeper, and the long days on my feet only made the pain worse.

I was never a fan of ibuprofen, Tylenol, or prescription pain meds. So, my healing came from herbs and hot baths filled with magnesium flakes and Epsom salt. That’s when Golden Milk became my go-to.

The Herbs Packing the Punch

Turmeric

Turmeric has long been praised for its ability to reduce inflammation and support joint health. Its golden color comes from curcumin, the powerful compound responsible for many of turmeric’s healing benefits. Curcumin has been studied for its potential to ease pain, reduce swelling, and support the body’s natural inflammatory response.

Black Pepper

Curcumin alone doesn’t absorb well into the body—but that’s where black pepper makes all the difference. Black pepper contains piperine, a natural compound that dramatically enhances the body’s ability to absorb curcumin. When paired together, black pepper and turmeric form a potent, synergistic duo that helps your body fully access the healing potential of this ancient root.

Ginger is another powerful root in this blend. It contains shogaols and gingerols, compounds that help reduce inflammation by gently calming the body’s inflammatory response and supporting circulation and digestion.

Cinnamon brings warmth and helps stimulate blood flow, which is essential when addressing pain and inflammation. Improved circulation helps get healing blood to the places that need it most.

Clove rounds out the blend as a natural pain reliever. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory and numbing properties, making it a comforting addition to this healing cup.

So as you can see… this was the perfect tea for me! I prefer it warmed with a little coconut milk and a dash of coconut oil to help the turmeric absorb even better.

These are kitchen herbs, mind you. You can cook with them, you can sip them. You might be surprised at what’s already in your kitchen that could support your wellness. Sometimes healing starts with a simple cup of tea.

I invite you to steam up a cozy latte, grab your phone, and explore what these herbs can do. There’s so much information at your fingertips—and so many ways to reclaim your health, one sip at a time.

Sip. Relax. Enjoy.

Purposefully… unapologetically,

Daria

Founder of House of SZO

Connect With Us:
🛒Shop With Us: House of SZO Hub
📧Email: houseofszoinfo@gmail.com
Instagram: @houseofszo

Hibiscus Fusion: Bold, Beautiful, and Beneficial🌺

Tea & Herbal Wisdom | #HibiscusFusion

A heart-loving blend with the power to refresh and restore.

I created Hibiscus Fusion as a refreshing alternative to our usual iced spearmint tea. There isn’t a long story behind its inception other than wanting a different flavor. Something I could offer as an alternative to juice, water or coconut water. At first, we added dehydrated strawberries, but eventually I wanted something with more purpose—something citrusy and functional. So I replaced the strawberries with orange peel and added lemongrass to support digestion, especially since we often drank it around dinnertime.

It was a hit.

My girls loved it, especially sweetened with a bit of agave and served cold. It quickly became our go-to on hot, humid Philly summer days, but it’s just as comforting on cooler afternoons. Simple, citrusy, light—and loved by many—it’s now a favorite at local vending events.

Let’s take a look at the herbal stars of this blend:

Hibiscus

Known for its vibrant red color and tart, cranberry-like flavor, hibiscus is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. It supports heart health, helps regulate blood pressure, and gently cools the body—making it an excellent herb for warm weather or times of inflammation. It’s also naturally cleansing and hydrating.

Lemongrass

This bright, citrusy herb helps balance hibiscus with a fresh, clean flavor. Lemongrass supports digestion, reduces bloating, and has gentle antimicrobial properties. It’s the perfect complement to evening meals and soothing enough to drink any time of day.

Orange Peel

Replacing our original strawberry idea, orange peel brings natural sweetness, vitamin C, and a soft citrus aroma that ties the whole blend together. It boosts the immune system and improves flavor harmony, making every cup smooth and satisfying.

Hibiscus Fusion is light enough to sip daily, tasty enough to share with the kids, and healing enough to become your new favorite. Whether you serve it over ice or sip it warm, it’s a cup of love—made with herbs that care for your body and uplift your spirit.

Brew. Sweeten. Chill. Enjoy.

Purposefully… unapologetically,

Daria

Founder of House of SZO

Connect With Us:
🛒Shop With Us: House of SZO Hub
📧Email: houseofszoinfo@gmail.com
Instagram: @houseofszo

Introducing Eldermint Tea: A Respiratory Remedy from Our Home to Yours

Category: Tea & Herbal Wisdom | #EldermintTea

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There’s a story behind every cup—and this one starts with a mama, a pandemic, and a prayer for protection.

Eldermint Tea was the third blend I created for Seren & Tea, and like everything in our line, it was born out of lived experience, necessity, and deep love. In the early days of the pandemic, when uncertainty clouded everything and shelves were bare, I leaned on the knowledge I had gathered over the years about herbs, healing, and the body’s ability to restore itself.

I needed a tea that would:

• Help clear mucus from our systems,

• Soothe the respiratory tract, and

• Strengthen our immune defenses without over-stimulating young bodies.

And most importantly—I needed something my girls would actually drink.

That’s when Eldermint came to life.

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The Power Behind the Blend

Each herb in this tea was chosen with intention, tradition, and taste in mind:

Elderberries

These deep purple gems have been used for centuries to ward off colds and flu. Packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and antiviral compounds, elderberries are a trusted ally in building immune resilience—especially during seasonal shifts or high exposure periods.

Mullein Leaf

Known as one of the best herbal supports for the lungs, mullein helps the body clear congestion, soothe inflammation, and repair irritated respiratory tissue. It’s particularly helpful during bouts of coughing or after exposure to environmental toxins or illness.

Marshmallow Root

A naturally mucilaginous root, marshmallow coats and protects delicate tissues in the throat and lungs. It brings comfort to dry, scratchy coughs and helps the body retain hydration while healing.

Peppermint

Not just for taste—though that was definitely part of the plan. Peppermint is cooling, aromatic, and helps relax the respiratory muscles. It opens the airways, calms digestion, and creates a tea experience that even little ones can enjoy with ease.

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How We Use It

We keep Eldermint stocked in our home year-round. It’s our go-to when anyone in the house has a sniffle, cough, or just needs a little immune love. I serve it warm with a drizzle of local honey, sometimes with a splash of lemon. It’s part of our wellness rhythm—a cup in the morning, a pause in the afternoon, or a soothing ritual before bed.

This isn’t a trendy tea. It’s a trusted remedy. A staple. A mama-formulated blend that turned into a family favorite.

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From Our Family to Yours

Every Seren & Tea blend holds a story—and Eldermint is one I’m proud to share. It was created not just for healing, but for ease, safety, and comfort. It’s herbal care you can trust, packaged with love, and always rooted in purpose.

Whether you’re supporting your family through the seasons, working on your wellness journey, or simply love a tea that feels like a warm hug—Eldermint is for you.

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Stay rooted. Sip with intention.

Daria | Seren & Tea

Connect With Us:
🛒Shop With Us: House of SZO Hub
📧Email: houseofszoinfo@gmail.com
Instagram: @houseofszo

My Little Piece of Serenity: Why I Created Our Signature Chai Tea

House of SZO | April Blog Series | Cozy Up with Chai: A Seren & Tea Favorite

There’s something about a good chai tea latte that just hits different.

Warm, spicy, bold, and comforting—it’s a hug in a cup. And if you know me, you know I love a good ritual. For a long time, mine came in the form of a $9 venti chai tea latte from Starbucks—7 pumps, coconut milk, no foam. Honey… it got to the point the baristas knew my order as soon as I walked through the door.

And I didn’t even care—because that cup brought me peace.

But at $9 a pop? I had to start being real with myself. I knew I could recreate the vibe at home—and honestly, do it even better, using real herbs, full flavor, and intention.

So I started blending. At first, it was just for me—something to sip on while Serenity had her tea time, for those days I wanted something different. I craved something bold and full-bodied. I researched a bunch of chai recipes and tried several combinations. I was on a mission to make a chai that was strong, full-flavored, and deeply satisfying.

I started with a black tea base but eventually switched to Darjeeling—it had more depth and character. Then came the spice:

Cloves and cinnamon bark to bring the warmth Ginger for that fiery kick Cardamom pods and allspice berries to round it out Star anise just because the smell alone made me feel cozy

But it was still missing something. I added red peppercorns for a little edge, fennel seeds for sweetness, and finished it with a sprinkle of freshly ground nutmeg. That was the moment it came together. Balanced. Spicy. Aromatic. Full of soul.

I crushed a lot of the spices with a mortar and pestle to unlock their oils and release the flavor. Then I’d steep them gently, mix in coconut milk and a splash of water, sweeten it with raw sugar (this was before I made the switch to agave), and froth it up using a little handheld frother I found at Burlington.

And let me tell you—that moment, sipping my chai before the house woke up, was everything.

I’d sit in silence. Sometimes on the front steps, letting the sun rise and the breeze kiss my face. That cup became my stillness, my pause, my little piece of Serenity.

What’s in Our Chai Blend?

This is not your average chai. Our Seren & Tea Chai Blend is handcrafted with intention and made with 10 healing herbs and spices:

Darjeeling Tea – high in antioxidants, supports heart and digestive health

Cinnamon Bark – helps regulate blood sugar, improves circulation

Red Peppercorns – stimulates digestion, clears sinuses, boosts warmth

Fennel Seeds – eases bloating, supports hormone balance

Nutmeg – calming, supports sleep and brain function

Star Anise – antimicrobial, helps with cough and digestion

Allspice Berries – anti-inflammatory, warming, and immune-supportive

Cloves – great for immunity, relieves gas and oral discomfort

Ginger Root – powerful digestive and anti-nausea herb

Cardamom Pods – mood-balancing, detoxifying, supports gut health

Together, they create a cup that nourishes your body while comforting your spirit.

From Cup to Apothecary

Every ingredient in this blend is more than a flavor—it’s a medicine.

You can start collecting these herbs yourself and build a simple kitchen apothecary. And I’ll say it again and again: an apothecary in today’s time is vital… pivotal… crucial. These herbs aren’t just pretty names on a label—they are time-tested healers, sitting right in your spice cabinet.

The more you use them, the more you’ll start to feel the difference. And that’s when it clicks. You begin to embrace the alternative. And maybe even fall in love with it.

However You Brew It… Make It Yours

Chai isn’t just for fall. It’s a year-round favorite.

Some like it iced, some like it hot.

Add a little vanilla, some pumpkin spice, or your favorite milk.

Create your own ritual—or keep it simple.

Just brew a cup. Sip slowly.

Let the spices hold you. Let the stillness find you. Let it be your peace.

Because this blend wasn’t made in a factory. It was born out of love, ritual, and a mama’s need for just one quiet moment.

Crafted with care. Made for your moment.

With intentional harmony and peace,

Daria

Founder of House of SZO

Connect With Us:
🛒Shop With Us: House of SZO Hub
📧Email: houseofszoinfo@gmail.com
Instagram: @houseofszo

Introducing Our Serenity Tea: The Blend That Started It All

House of SZO | April Blog Series | Tea Week Begins

Last week, we introduced ourselves, shared our brands, stood firm in the legacy we’re building, and opened up about the real realities of being a mother—and a single mother at that. We honored Autism Awareness Month, created space for mamas to feel seen, and planted the seeds of what House of SZO is all about.

This week, I want to introduce you to our teas.

We are launching with six intentionally crafted blends and our signature mushroom coffee. Each one was picked with a purpose—and with both mamas and babies in mind. Some are for the tea lover looking for daily comfort, others for mamas needing support with things like digestion, stress, or inflammation. A few are gentle enough for little ones when they’re under the weather or just need to wind down.

And then there’s Serenity Tea—the one that started it all.

How Serenity Tea Came to Be

This was the very first blend I ever made. It was created out of pure intention, love, and a deep desire to support my daughter, Serenity, in a natural way.

Serenity would sometimes stim—tracing the air, humming to herself—and while it wasn’t distressing to her, as her mama I could just tell when things were getting a little too loud, too busy, too much. She didn’t need discipline or redirection. She just needed a moment to slow down. And sometimes… mama needed to get things done. So I turned to what I knew best—herbs.

I had already been studying herbs since I was 16 years old, long before motherhood. What I call “kitchen herbs” became my go-to: the simple, safe, everyday herbs that are powerful and gentle at the same time. I wanted something I could give her daily if needed. I wanted to support her nervous system without anything too strong or bitter.

I started with lemon balm—the first herb I ever gave her, and one of the first I fell in love with. Then came chamomile, which I knew helped with sleep, fevers, and upset tummies. I added a touch of lavender for its calming and antibacterial properties, and finally, I rounded it out with peppermint to bring a little clarity and balance to the taste.

The result? A smooth, comforting tea that helped Serenity wind down on the days she needed extra support. Over time, I noticed it also helped with little colds, congestion, and fevers—without worrying about safety, because each herb was carefully chosen with toddlers in mind.

And the truth is… it helped me, too.

This blend became a ritual for both of us. A warm cup on chilly mornings, a midday reset, or an evening wind-down when the day felt heavy. It’s calming without making you drowsy, gentle enough for toddlers, and supportive enough for moms. That’s the beauty of herbs—they meet you where you are.

What’s Inside: Benefits of the Serenity Blend

Calms anxiety and nerves, supports focus and cognitive function, gently reduces cortisol, and has antiviral and antibacterial properties. A true friend to the nervous system.

Soothes fevers, helps with chest colds, nausea, vomiting, sore throats, inflammation, and pain. A perfect go-to for immune support and calm.

Helps reduce stress, tension, and headaches.Supports sleep, eases anxiety and depression, and is antibacterial. Also helps with respiratory concerns and is known to repel bugs.

Eases digestion, headaches, and nausea. Helps with mental clarity and opens up the sinuses—making it great for congestion or fatigue.

A Loving Reminder

I study embrace and believe in the powerful benefits of herbs however, I’m not a doctor. This information is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Please always consult with a medical professional before adding herbal remedies to your routine—especially for your little ones.

A Cup of Peace, from Our Home to Yours

If Serenity Tea feels like the blend for you, we invite you to explore it. Brew a cup, add a little honey if you like, and enjoy a warm, loving calm in a cup.

We created this tea with families in mind—and with your peace in our hearts. So whether you’re a tired mama, a tea lover, or someone looking for a little more balance in your day, we hope you’ll find your fancy in one of our blends.

Shop. Brew. Enjoy—with peace of mind.

With love,

Daria

Founder, House of SZO

Connect With Us:
🛒Shop With Us: House of SZO Hub
📧Email: houseofszoinfo@gmail.com
Instagram: @houseofszo