America's Classic Yaupon Tea Pouch (20 Sachets)

Our America's Classic Yaupon Tea tastes nature's finest in every sip. This pure Yaupon Holly blend is a timeless favorite that boasts a  smooth, slightly grassy flavor with a subtle hint of sweetness and no bitter taste. Sourced from both wild trees and local farms in Central Florida, this unique tea is packed with antioxidants and is naturally caffeinated for a natural energy boost. With its sustainable and eco-friendly cultivation, you can savor the true essence of American-grown tea while supporting a healthier planet.

- Steeping Instructions-

Steep in nearly boiling water for at least five minutes. 

Also excellent as an iced tea!

Brewing Instructions: BREW AT 212 F LET STEEP FOR FIVE MINUTES

Rise Yaupon Organic Teas

All of our teas center around Yaupon Holly, a plant native to the Southeast United States; it is the only naturally caffeinated plant in North America. Yaupon tea has over 8,000 years of consumption (twice as old as Chinese teas), but in the 1700s saw a rapid decline, as European settlers preferred coffee and other imported teas over Yaupon. In recent times, there has been a resurgence of interest in Yaupon tea, driven by its unique taste, natural caffeine content, and health benefits. Here at Rise Yaupon, we are working to revive its rich history and celebrate its cultural significance.

A Rich History

Yaupon Holly tea has also been known as "Cassine", "Native American tea", "South Sea Tea" and even "Appalachian tea".
The Yaupon Holly was highly valued by Native American tribes, such as the Creek, Cherokee, and Seminole, for its medicinal properties and stimulating effects. The leaves and stems of the plant contain caffeine, theobromine, and other antioxidants, which were used to create a nourishing and invigorating drink that early explorers referred to as "The Black Drink".

The Black Drink

Historically, Yaupon tea was consumed during purification ceremonies, that early Spanish explorers dubbed the "Black Drink" ritual, due to the dark color of the brewed leaves. The tea was consumed in large quantities to induce vomiting, cleansing the body and spirit in preparation for major tribal events, such as diplomatic councils, important hunts or before entering battles. The plant itself does NOT possess emetic properties; the vomiting effect was induced by consuming copious amounts of the tea rapidly.