Flower tea is a category of infused beverages made by steeping dried flowers, flower buds, or aromatic plant parts in hot water. It combines the fragrance of flowers with potential health benefits, offering both sensory and wellness appeal.
In China, diverse flower teas are popular:
Jasmine Tea (茉莉花茶): The most iconic, made by scenting green tea with jasmine blossoms, known for its bright, sweet floral aroma.
Lotus Tea (荷花茶): Uses lotus petals or seeds, delivering a clean, refreshing scent with subtle nutty undertones.
Chrysanthemum Tea (菊花茶): Made from dried chrysanthemum flowers, offering a mild, slightly bitter taste with a cooling effect, often paired with goji berries.
Rose Tea (玫瑰花茶): Features dried rose petals, known for its sweet, floral fragrance and romantic aroma, popular for skincare benefits.
Honeysuckle Tea (金银花茶): Uses honeysuckle blossoms, characterized by a light, sweet flavor with 清热解毒 (heat-clearing) properties in traditional Chinese medicine.
Osmanthus Tea (桂花茶): Infuses osmanthus flowers, offering a rich, honey-like sweetness and warm, comforting aroma.
Flower tea flavors range from delicate and sweet (like jasmine and rose) to herbal and slightly bitter (chrysanthemum), with some featuring fruity or nutty nuances (lotus, osmanthus). They are often enjoyed for relaxation, hydration, or as a caffeine-free alternative to traditional teas.
