How to Brew Mamaki Tea: A Hawaiian Herbal Delight

To brew Mamaki tea, steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried Mamaki leaves in hot water (190°F) for 5-7 minutes, then enjoy its earthy flavor and health benefits.

Mamaki tea is a caffeine-free herbal infusion made from the leaves of Hawaii’s native māmaki plant. This earthy, slightly sweet beverage has been cherished for centuries in traditional Hawaiian medicine and is gaining popularity worldwide for its unique flavor and potential health benefits.

What is Mamaki Tea?

Mamaki (Pipturus albidus) is a Hawaiian nettle plant that grows exclusively in the Hawaiian islands. Unlike its stinging relatives, mamaki leaves are completely safe to handle. The plant grows as shrubs or small trees, thriving in shaded, wet forest environments across all elevations.

Native Hawaiians have used mamaki for:

• Medicinal teas (lā’au lapa’au)
• Making kapa (traditional bark cloth)
• Natural dyes from roots
• Wound treatment from berries

Key Antioxidants in Mamaki

University of Hawaii research identified three powerful antioxidants in mamaki leaves:

Antioxidant	Potential Benefits
Catechins	May regulate blood pressure, support weight loss, protect cells
Chlorogenic acid	Found in coffee; may improve brain function and metabolism
Rutin	Anti-inflammatory properties; may boost circulation

How to Brew Mamaki Tea

Hot Brew Method

For a perfect cup of hot mamaki tea:

1. Use 1-2 tablespoons dried leaves per 8-10 oz water
2. Heat water to 200°F (just below boiling)
3. Steep for 5-10 minutes (longer for stronger flavor)
4. Strain and enjoy plain or with honey

Cold Brew Method

For refreshing iced mamaki tea:

1. Add 1/4 cup dried leaves to a quart jar
2. Fill with room temperature water
3. Refrigerate overnight (8-12 hours)
4. Strain and serve over ice

Pro Brewing Tips

• Leaves can be re-steeped 2-3 times
• Longer steeping creates a thicker, more syrupy texture
• Try adding mint, ginger, or lemon for flavor variations
• For large batches, brew a half-gallon and refrigerate for up to 5 days

Flavor Profile and Serving Suggestions

Mamaki tea has a naturally sweet, earthy flavor with notes of:

• Hazelnut
• Bamboo
• Honey

The amber-colored brew has a medium-bodied mouthfeel that coats the throat pleasantly. Unlike many herbal teas, mamaki lacks bitterness or astringency.

Delicious Pairings

Mamaki blends beautifully with:

• Fresh mint or peppermint
• Ginger root
• Lemongrass
• Lemon slices
• Hawaiian honey
• Guava or apple juice

For a tropical twist, try blending cold-brewed mamaki with frozen fruit for a refreshing smoothie.

Where to Find Mamaki Tea

While mamaki grows wild in Hawaii, you can purchase dried leaves from:

• Hawaiian specialty stores
• Online retailers like Big Island Coffee Roasters
• Local Hawaiian farmers markets

Pre-made bottled versions like Shaka Tea offer convenient mango, pineapple-mint, and other flavored options.

Ecological Importance

Beyond its culinary uses, mamaki plays a vital role in Hawaii’s ecosystem:

• Host plant for endangered Kamehameha butterflies
• Supports native moths, spiders, and snails
• Used in rainforest restoration projects

When purchasing mamaki, look for ethically sourced options that support sustainable Hawaiian agriculture.

Growing Your Own

While mamaki grows best in Hawaii’s climate, enthusiasts in similar zones (USDA 10-12) can attempt cultivation with:

• Partial shade conditions
• Well-draining soil
• Regular moisture