Guinea Hen Weed Tea by RastaMan Stew is made from 100% wildcrafted Petiveria alliacea, one of the most recognisable bush teas in Jamaica, West Africa and the wider Caribbean.

What Guinea Hen Weed Is

Guinea hen weed is the Jamaican name for Petiveria alliacea, a hardy herb that grows wild across the island. It is also called anamu in Latin America and gully root in parts of the Caribbean.

The plant is unmistakable because of its strong garlic-like smell, which carries through into the dried leaf and into the brewed cup.

At a Glance

• 100% wildcrafted guinea hen weed (Petiveria alliacea)
• Also known as anamu, gully root and mucura
• Organically dried loose leaf
• Naturally caffeine-free
• Non-GMO, no additives, no preservatives
• Packed in small batches by RastaMan Stew

How to Brew

Use about one teaspoon of dried leaf per 8 oz cup, steep in boiling water for five to ten minutes, then strain.

The aroma is strong, so a shorter steep is a sensible place to start. You can always put the pot back on the heat.

Serving Suggestions

Fresh ginger is the traditional partner and it balances the garlic note better than anything else. A stick of cinnamon works well too.

Honey or cane sugar rounds the cup out, and a squeeze of lime at the end brightens the whole thing.

Flavour and Aroma

Guinea hen weed smells distinctly of garlic and tastes earthy and savoury rather than sweet. It is a bush tea, not a dessert tea.

People who grew up with it tend to drink it plain. If it is new to you, ginger and honey make a much gentler introduction.

Storage

Keep the pouch sealed in a cool, dry cupboard and away from other dry goods, because the aroma travels. Stored that way it holds its character for over a year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What else is guinea hen weed called?

Anamu, mucura, gully root and apacin are all names for Petiveria alliacea, depending on where in the world you are.

Why does it smell like garlic?

The garlic-like aroma is a natural characteristic of the plant, and it is the easiest way to tell you have the real thing.

Is it caffeinated?

No. It is a herbal infusion and contains no caffeine.

How strong should I brew it?

One teaspoon per cup and five minutes is a good starting point. Longer steeping makes the savoury note much more pronounced.

Is it wildcrafted or farmed?

This leaf is wildcrafted, meaning it is gathered from plants growing naturally rather than cultivated in rows.

About RastaMan Stew

RastaMan Stew brings Caribbean herbs, teas and spices straight from the island to your kitchen. Every pouch holds a single ingredient with nothing added.

This guinea hen weed is sold as a food and beverage ingredient for brewing.