Picking tea leaves from the wild is a beautiful way to connect with our whenua — taking only what is needed, honouring ancient practises, while enjoying the veritable treasure trove of benefits growing in our backyards...
Our Foraged Forest Tea recipe is really more of a suggestion, or a way to share knowledge. There are very few rules when it comes to ratios. By blending together four sacred shrubs: Red Matipo, Kawakawa, Horopito and Mānuka, you can create a vibrant and nutrient-rich tonic to heal your body from within.
Leaves of:
Matipo (or Red Matipo)
Kawakawa
Horopito
Mānuka
Matipo [or Red Matipo]
Widely used as a remedy for skin disease, intestinal worms, and a daily tonic, Matipo also helps to lower cholesterol and relieve toothache.
Kawakawa
Kawakawa is great for soothing an upset tummy or menstrual cramps. Applied topically, it can treat skin abrasions and ailments, traditionally to draw toxins from the body, Kawakawa has a restorative ability to assist those under high levels of physical and emotional stress, or suffering from fatigue. *Tip: when choosing your Kawakawa leaves, pick the ones that have little holes - this suggests the leaf is ripe and mature enough to provide nourishment.
Horopito
The crisp heat from Horopito leaves and berries are great to consume on mornings when feeling sluggish as they boost energy and help rejuvenate the mind. Horopito is a healing plant to treat anti-fungal, coughs and tummy aches.
Mānuka
Traditionally used as a tea replacement by early settlers in New Zealand, this incredibly fragrant leaf is what contains the remarkable properties of the Mānuka essential oil, proven to soothe itchy skin and reduce bacterial build up.
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Method
Pick a selection of your chosen leaves, based on your health requirements. Boil the kettle and place your leaves inside your teapot. Cover leaves in hot water and leave to steep for 3 minutes. Sip throughout the day. If water turns cool, add ice and lemon for an afternoon refreshment.
*In respect of Aotearoa's native bush, we advise to only take what you need, and always return your steeped leaves to its source.
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