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Benefits of Consuming Rock Tea for the Body

Rock tea has been used since time immemorial as a digestive formula in the face of heavy meals, flatulence and stomach disorders. Today it is a very characteristic plant of Spain and still used for its medicinal properties.

In this article we want to make a review of the properties of the plant Jasonia glutinose, also known as Aragon tea, for the high presence in that area.

Characteristics of rock tea (Jasonia glutinous)

Rock tea, Aragon tea or, by its scientific name, Jasonia glutinous

It grows in the fissures of the rocks or next to them, in mountain areas, and with its flowery tops an infusion is prepared, with a pleasant camphor aroma and a somewhat bitter taste, very appreciated in many areas of the eastern half of the Iberian Peninsula.

It is rock tea, mountain tea or Aragon tea (Jasonia glutinous), a plant of the compound family, found only in the Western Mediterranean, from Provence to Morocco.

It is a plant just 60 cm high, with the woody stem at its base, viscous. It has small, lanceolate, glandular leaves, arranged alternately on the stems.

The flowers are tubular, golden yellow, appearing in heads, wrapped in glandulous outer bracts. It blooms from the month of May. Flowering tops are collected at the beginning of flowering.

Although it has not been studied very thoroughly, in rock tea the presence of an essential oil, sesquiterpene lactones, heterosides, bitter principles and tannins has been detected. Its essential oil contains 25% camphor and between 10-20% borneol, cis-nerolidol and other unidentified high molecular weight compounds.

However, because it is a species native to the Iberian Peninsula and is not found in many more countries, the medical knowledge we have of it is very limited.

Gathering

Due to the growth and development habits of the plant, the best way to collect the stems with the flowers is to cut flush from the base, but leaving some stems untouched, so that the plant can regrow if good conditions are given for it.

Properties of rock tea

Rock tea is beneficial both in the field of health, therapeutic, body and weight loss; that is why, thanks to its incredible properties, it is highly sought after by people.

Jasonia glutinous It is extremely healthy and natural without any type of chemical or artificial dye, so it helps to hydrate the body. Historically, rock tea has been used above all for the improvement it produces in digestion and the digestive tract.

Moreover, the flowers of this plant have antiseptic properties. They can be used to clean wounds or burns. It is also used as an antidiarrheal and anti-inflammatory. Its essential oils improve discomfort against colds, flu or coughing attacks.

It is widely used as a digestive, as it increases appetite, reduces gas, stimulates bile secretion and soothes abdominal pain. In turn, it is very beneficial for those who suffer from high blood pressure, although the latter has not been confirmed by the scientific community.

Finally, it has carminative properties with the consumption of a cup of rock tea daily. If we usually have gas or suffer from gastritis, we can relieve the feeling of pain and discomfort with this plant.

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect

Scientific studies have shown a reduction in the expression of lipid peroxidation markers, so rock tea can reduce the presence of free radicals in the body that cause oxidative stress.

Preparation and tips for use

The most recommended form of consumption of the plant is through the rock tea, in infusion. The optimal time of collection of flowers is just before the floral heads begin their opening.

As for the amount to use, it is enough with one flowery stem per cup. Its flavor is special, so it can be mixed with other infusions or add heather honey or sugar.

For intestinal spasms: Of great efficacy in case of intestinal spasms and flatulence is the tisane that combines rock tea with white savory (Fruticosa satureja), herb and lemon balm in equal parts.

Infusión to avoid bad breath and bad taste in the mouth: You can try the formula that combines 20 g of rock tea, mint and green anise, plus half of parsley.

  • How to prepare it: A tablespoon of the mixture is poured into a glass of boiling water and kept in infusion for 10 minutes.

To relieve bruises. A valid recipe is the one that combines rock tea with calendula, thyme and cat’s tail.

  • How to prepare it: Four tablespoons of the mixture are poured per half a liter of water. Boil for 5 minutes and strain. It involves watering the affected area three times a day with the infusion. This can be kept in the fridge, but it is preferable to renew it daily.

Possible side effects

Precautions

Although it has not been studied in depth, it is recommended that pregnant women do not drink rock tea, because it has been associated with abortifacient compounds.

 

About Lela M Altman

Lela M. Altman is a distinguished biochemist dedicated to unraveling the intricacies of life at the molecular level. With a robust background in molecular biology and genetics, she has contributed significantly to our understanding of key cellular processes. Her groundbreaking research spans diverse areas, from DNA replication mechanisms to protein folding dynamics. Dr. Altman's work has led to innovative treatments for various diseases and shed light on the origins of life itself. Her unwavering commitment to scientific exploration has earned her accolades and respect in the scientific community, solidifying her status as a trailblazing figure in the field of biochemistry.

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