We know: it sounds crazy to talk about a rock tea but don’t worry: we haven’t gone crazy and we don’t want you to infuse a rock. No, of course not, rock tea is the name given to the infusion of Jasonia glutinosa.
In Spain, it is also known as Aragon tea or mountain tea. Now, why is it called rock tea? As you well know, at Infusionism we love curiosities and, for this reason, we will tell you where this name comes from. Continue reading to discover this information and all the benefits of rock tea for health.
Why is it called rock tea?
Rock tea is prepared, as we have already mentioned, with the leaves of Jasonia glutinosa, a plant that grows in the spaces between rocks and, you guessed it! That is where its name comes from.
This plant, which can reach 30 cm in height, is native to the Western Mediterranean; that is to say that it is found from the area of Provence to Morocco.
It stands out for its very small, lanceolate and pointed leaves. In spring, small, highly aromatic, tubular yellow flowers appear, giving rise to tasty rock tea.
In the mouth, this infusion is quite bitter; therefore, it is usually recommended to drink it mixed with other herbs or with a teaspoon of honey.
Health Benefits of Rock Tea
In a traditional way, rock tea is drunk in the regions of Catalonia, Levante and Aragon as an aperitif and digestif. In other words, it would help whet the appetite and prevent problems caused by slow digestion.
Contributes to good digestion
Despite its name, this infusion will not make your stomach feel heavy but, on the contrary, will facilitate digestion. Faced with large feasts or foods that you know will be difficult for you to digest, do not hesitate and drink this infusion. You’ll feel so much better and avoid that awful heavy feeling, heartburn, nausea, and even vomiting.
Promotes appetite
Loss of appetite is a fairly common problem during the summer, in situations of stress or during some illnesses. Drinking rock tea may be just what you need to bring back that feeling of hunger you’ve been missing.
We recommend drinking a cup of freshly brewed rock tea about 45 minutes before mealtime. You will see the desire that enters you to devour the dish!
Reduces the presence of gases
Some foods, such as cruciferous vegetables, can generate gases. In addition, some people have a tendency to flatulence, usually because they swallow a lot of air when eating fast, suffer from irritable bowel syndrome or have problems absorbing nutrients. Whatever the cause of intestinal gas, get rid of it with rock tea. You will feel much better.
Fight bad breath
Antiseptic effects have been attributed to this infusion and, therefore, it is believed that it would eradicate the oral bacteria that cause bad breath. However, we have not found specific scientific studies on this subject, so if you suffer from halitosis, visit a specialist for timely diagnosis and treatment.
Improves diarrhea and constipation
The infusion of Jasonia glutinosa would help stop diarrhea and, at the same time, experts in natural medicine usually recommend it in cases of constipation. In the latter case, it should be drunk on an empty stomach to help the correct bowel movement.
Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect
Various studies have shown that rock tea contains flavonoids, substances with proven antioxidant properties. These combat the oxidative stress caused by free radicals and that can cause different degenerative diseases.
On the other hand, antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties and, for this reason, they would help improve ailments caused by swelling and inflammation.
Relaxing properties
Ayurvedic medicine holds that drinking rock tea helps counteract the symptoms of stress by helping to relax both the mind and body.
Improves menstrual cramps
The anti-inflammatory properties mentioned above help fight menstrual cramps. So now you know, when the date approaches, drink this tasty infusion.
Prevents colds and flu
The antioxidant effects help prevent colds, colds and flu. This fall, begin to increase your defenses by drinking this rich and comforting infusion.
How to make a cup of rock tea
Making this infusion is very, very easy. Come to your trusted herbalist to buy the flowers and get down to work.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Jasonia glutinosa
- 1 cup of water
Elaboration
- Bring the water to a boil.
- Incorporate the herb.
- Lower the heat to a minimum and let it infuse for 3 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let it sit for another 3 minutes.
- Strain and serve.
- Being a bitter herb, it is advisable to add a teaspoon of honey.
Do you dare to try rock tea? You will see that you will fall in love with its flavor and you will benefit from its extensive health properties.