To make Manglier tea, steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried Manglier leaves in hot water for 10-15 minutes, then strain and enjoy for its health benefits.
Manglier tea, made from the leaves of the groundsel bush, has been used for centuries in Louisiana folk medicine. This bitter herbal tea offers impressive health benefits backed by modern research. Learn how to properly harvest, prepare, and use this traditional remedy.
What is Manglier Tea?
Manglier tea comes from the groundsel bush (Baccharis halimifolia), known locally as “manglier” in French. This hardy shrub grows abundantly across the Gulf Coast region from Louisiana to Texas. Traditional healers have long used its leaves to:
- Reduce fever
- Treat respiratory illnesses
- Combat inflammation
- Support metabolic health
Recent studies from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette confirm manglier’s potent anti-inflammatory properties that may help with obesity and Type 2 diabetes.
How to Harvest Manglier Leaves
When to Harvest
The best time to collect manglier leaves is in fall when the plant blooms with white or gold flowers. The leaves remain on the bush year-round, unlike most deciduous plants.
Where to Find Manglier
Look for manglier growing:
- Along fence lines
- Near railroad tracks
- In undisturbed natural areas
Avoid plants near roadsides or areas that may have been sprayed with pesticides. As herbalist Rebecca Henry warns, “Just because you see it on the highway, it may have just been sprayed with Roundup.”
How to Prepare Manglier Tea
Basic Manglier Tea Recipe
- Gather 1-2 tablespoons of dried manglier leaves per cup
- Bring water to a boil (about 200°F)
- Steep leaves for 5-10 minutes
- Strain and add honey or lemon to taste
For a stronger medicinal tea, try using a slow infusion method to extract more beneficial compounds.
Tips for Better Taste
Manglier tea is notoriously bitter. Traditional preparations include:
- Generous amounts of honey
- Fresh lemon juice
- Mixing with other herbs like mint
As folk healer Rebecca Henry notes, “If it’s not bitter, it’s not manglier.” The strong taste indicates potent medicinal compounds.
Health Benefits of Manglier Tea
Scientific Research
A 2018 study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found manglier contains:
| Compound | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Flavonoids | Powerful antioxidants |
| Triterpenes | Anti-inflammatory effects |
| Phenolic acids | Metabolic support |
Traditional Uses
Louisiana folk medicine uses manglier tea for:
- Reducing fever
- Clearing congestion
- Supporting respiratory health
- Aiding digestion
Modern herbalists like Dr. MaryAnn Armbruster continue using it as a natural remedy, especially during cold and flu season.
Safety and Precautions
While generally safe, consider these precautions:
- Start with small amounts to test tolerance
- Consult your doctor if taking medications
- Pregnant women should avoid manglier tea
- Only use properly identified leaves from clean sources
For those interested in other herbal remedies, explore our guide to cold-fighting smoothies that complement manglier tea’s benefits.
Where to Buy Manglier Tea
If you can’t harvest your own, quality sources include:
- Local herbalists in Louisiana
- Specialty shops like Urban Naturalist in Lafayette
- Online retailers (verify organic certification)
When purchasing, look for products like certified organic manglier to ensure quality and safety.
Manglier tea represents an important part of Louisiana’s herbal tradition. When prepared properly, this “cure-all” remedy offers powerful health benefits that modern science is just beginning to understand.
