Rose and Lotus Leaf Tea

Why people make this tea

Nourilo is fond of flower teas that double as a daily pick-me-up — rose, jasmine, lotus leaf, lotus flower, roselle, bitter orange blossom. In this one he pairs several flowers with lotus leaf, a combination traditionally enjoyed by those watching their weight or managing high blood lipids. Lotus leaf is associated in tradition with clearing summer heat and supporting a lighter feeling; fresh lotus leaf is considered even better, and in summer he likes to cook fresh lotus leaf into congee.

Method

1. Snip the lotus leaf into small pieces and place it with the other ingredients in a pot.
2. Rinse once with boiling water and pour off.
3. Refill with boiling water, cover, and steep for about 7 minutes before serving.

Nourilo’s Tips

Bitter orange blossom (dai dai hua) is also called neroli; it is mostly imported and traditionally associated with moving qi, relieving bloating and supporting weight management. Pregnant women, however, should not drink flower teas.