As Jamaicans, our authenticity is second to none. For instance, our form of speaking. It can be really hilarious when we mispronounce certain words or give them completely new names. This relates to tea because, not all things we classify as “tea” is actually considered a tea, if we want to be literal. Some examples include: “coffee tea”, “milo tea” and “chocolate tea”.
Just to educate you a little, tea originated in China under the Shang dynasty, according to ‘cupandleaf.com’, in traditional medicine. In the 16th century, Europe was first introduced to it, then it became the standard drink of Britain in the 17th century. From then onwards, tea has played a role in social engagements, such as in the Boston Tea Party. Furthermore, tea can be described as either ‘true’ or ‘herbal’. True tea is described as one which has stemmed from the Camellia Sinensis plant/Tea plant. These include green tea, white tea, black tea and oolong tea. Herbal Teas, on the other hand, are those which are not made from the aforementioned plant and are also caffeine free. They are instead made from spices, flowers and leaves from various plants, inclusive of fruits and herbs. These are widely consumed by Jamaicans and they will also be the main subject of this article.
Herbal Tea
Here in Jamaica, Herbal teas are also known as ‘bush teas’. They are said to can cure simple ailments such as stomach pains, headaches, the flu etc. Some of these ‘bush teas’ include Cerasee, Fever Grass, Guinea Hen Weed, Lime Leaf Tea and many others.
Cerasee Tea - This has a very bitter taste and is often dreaded by Jamaican children, especially me. Then again, most things that are good for our health isn’t really pleasing to the taste. However, its healing properties supersede its taste. It is used to lower ones cholesterol and blood pressure, helps to relieve allergies, and also to detox the body or in Jamaican terms ‘wash-out’.
Fever Grass- This is called lemon grass in other countries. Its main use is to relieve one of fever, hence its name. It is prepared by stripping the outer parts of the leaves that you are going to use. Then cut into smaller pieces, place in boiling water for five minutes, then sweeten with sugar or milk, if desired. Its other medicinal properties include: pain relief, cold and flu relief, boosts skin health and strengthens hair follicles, etc.
Guinea Hen Weed -This plant originated from the Amazon Rainforest and was called Anamu. It is said to have cancer healing properties, it acts as a pain reliever, strengthens the immune system and also aids in therapy for arthritis and rheumatism, etc. To prepare, place one stalk of leaves, roots or both, in boiling water. Then cover pot and leave for 10 minutes. After, remove from heat and strain to get liquid and allow to cool. It can be served warm or cold.
Lime Leaf Tea -This tea can be used as a nerve tonic, it is used to lower high blood pressure, aid in asthma, bronchial and other respiratory conditions, etc. Simply put, lime leaf tea is prepared by boiling the leaves of the plant, then sweetening with sugar.
Comments