Fireweed

Epilobium angustifolium

infusion · leaf

Leaves rolled and oxidized like a black tea, caffeine-free: Russian ivan chai; the young shoots are cooked like asparagus.

Origin

Northern Hemisphere (Russia, Canada)

Season (United States)

all year round · grows in your region

Preparation

The fermented leaves are brewed like black tea, one teaspoon per cup, five to ten minutes in boiling water; the young shoots are cooked for a few minutes, like asparagus.

Molecules

In small amounts, not counted Ellagitannins

Did you know?

In the 19th century, Russia sold it as far as England under the name Koporye tea.