Kawakawa tea – The refreshing taste of kawakawa tea is a NZ favourite of herbal teas. Kawakawa is a tonic for overall health with cleansing properties, the therapeutic actions support ailments like digestive, circulatory and rheumatic complaints.

Widely used today with its distinct refreshing taste and multiple health benefits kawakawa is a great choice when looking for a new herbal tea to enjoy and share.

Flavour and taste - Kawakawa has a fresh and slightly peppery taste. Its circulatory stimulant properties can help to support healthy circulation and bring blood flow to the gut, thus helping with digestive disorders.

Ideas how to drink Kawakawa tea:

• Enjoy with a slice of lemon for an extra refreshing drink, sweeten with honey if desired.
• Infuse with a couple of fresh mint leaves – mint can also help to soothe and calm an upset digestive system.
• Infuse with fresh ginger  – ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can also soothe an upset digestive system and help ease any nausea.
• Infuse with green tea – For a more stimulating “wake up” tea with some caffeine and antioxidant properties.
• Iced tea – Any of the above poured over ice on a hot day for a refreshing iced tea.

Ingredients

• 6 kawakawa leaves
• 2 cups of water
• Extra Options: fresh ginger, fresh mint, slice of lemon or additional green tea bag.

Instructions

1. Add fresh kawakawa leaves (roughly torn) and 2 cups of water to a pot.
2. Options: If using ginger or fresh mint then add now.
3. Cover, bring to boil then simmer on a low heat for 15 minutes.
4. Other options: Squeeze in some lemon at the end or add a green tea bag and infuse for 1-2 minutes depending on how strong you like your green tea.
5. Sweeten with honey if desired.