Buckwheat Tea

Enriched with vitamin E, phytic acid, phenolic acid, tocotrienols, and rutin, common buckwheat tea is made either from the seeds or leaves of the buckwheat plant (Fagopyrum esculentum), while tartary buckwheat tea (or soba tea) is made from roasted grains of the tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum). The latter is further enriched with quarcetin. Completely caffeine free and antioxidant by nature, it has gained much prominence due to its medicinal and nutritional properties.

History and origin

Traditionally used in China and Japan, the earliest production of this plant has been observed in the Yunnan province of China dating back to approximately six thousand B.C. Presently Russia, China and other countries like Japan, South Korea, and Ukraine all share interest in cultivating the plant.

Buckwheat tea Benefits

As a dietary supplement

Buckwheat tea contains natural antioxidant catechins which prevent and reduce the chances of building up additional fat, especially in waist zone.

For Diabetes

Buckwheat tea has vitamin B Complex such as Vitamin B1 and B2. It also includes D-chiro-inositol compound responsible for maintaining and triggering the glucose metabolism of both human and animal body. Animal researches have shown that Rutin in buckwheat reduces type 2 diabetes in mice.

The D-chiro-inositol also improves insulin activities in women experiencing  polycystic ovary syndrome, thus, helping with smooth ovulation. It trims down the concentrated plasma triglycerides and serum androgen.

Effects on Edema

The tea has shown immense positive result in terms of healing edema associated with chronic venous insufficiency.

For Cholesterol

Buckwheat has choline that helps decrease the cholesterol levels. Along with it, the tea is conducive to maintain proper body metabolism rate.

Effects on the Immune system

It contains both fat and water soluble as well as insoluble antioxidants, which combat the toxic free radicals and provide safety from fungal, viral and bacterial infection.

For the Digestive system

Phytonutrients in buckwheat tea lead to improvement of digestive system, reducing the chance of gall-stone. Being a rich source of dietary fiber, it is good for reducing constipation as well.

Hormone-induced cancers

This tea is known for its anti-carcinogenic effects preventing hormone-dependent cancers such as breast cancer by transforming lignans (found in buckwheat tea) into enterolactone in intestines. Studies have shown that lignans also help in reducing the risk of breast cancer in post-menopausal women.

Cardiac solution

According to an American heart journal research, daily intake of buckwheat tea may help in controlling cardiovascular disorders in post-menopausal women.

For kidney problems

According to various animal researches, application of buckwheat reduces and puts a stop to renal problems of rats. More research is being carried out to get positive results for humans.

Its rutin content may even help to cure conditions like spider and varicose veins.

Buckwheat tea Safety and Precautions

Side effects

There are no side effects of Tartary buckwheat tea as of now. As per researches, excessive consumption of common Buckwheat leaf tea may lead to phototoxicity or photo irritation resulting in red skin and burning sensation afterward.

During pregnancy and nursing

It is usually considered safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women. However, doctor consultation is advisable before consumption to avoid any adverse outcomes.

How does buckwheat tea taste

Strongly aromatic, this tea primarily has a nutty flavor, while being rich and smooth sans any bitterness. It offers multiple tastes in just one sip. But the tartary buckwheat tea might taste a little bitter if consumed heavily.

How to make buckwheat tea

• Boil one and a half cup water and one tablespoon grain together for half minute
• Let the tea stay for a few minutes longer
• Add sugar or honey to sweeten

For the leaf tea put one to two tablespoon dried leaves in hot water and let it stay for around ten minutes. For roasted tartary buckwheat tea, the grains are roasted beforehand.

Where to buy buckwheat tea

You can find buckwheat tea online in various forms such as loose, sachet, capsule and tea bags.