Rock tea, also called “mountain tea” or “Aragon tea”, is a highly appreciated infusion in the Mediterranean region. Obtained from the Jasonia glutinosa species, it is used in traditional medicine for its digestive, anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which are useful for relieving stomach discomfort, respiratory symptoms, as well as bumps and bruises.
This wild plant, with sticky leaves and aromatic yellow flowers, grows in arid and rocky soils, especially in Spain and the south of France. Unlike other herbs used in infusions, it is not cultivated on a large scale, but is usually collected from the field, when its compounds are at their highest concentration.
In the market, it is common to find it in loose, dried leaves and flowers, or in bags ready for preparation. Many consider it an ideal option for after-dinner or to drink between meals as a comforting drink. However, it is essential to keep in mind that excessive consumption or consumption under certain conditions is not recommended.
Have you been recommended this variety of tea or are you just starting to include it in your diet? Below, we help you review its main benefits, how to prepare it according to your needs and in which cases it is preferable to avoid its consumption.
Health Benefits of Rock Tea
The pharmacological properties of rock tea have not been fully established through extensive clinical studies; however, phytochemical analysis and small research support its content of flavonoids, tannins, saponins and essential oils, compounds associated with its therapeutic effects. Rock tea main benefits include the following:
1. Digestive health
The main medicinal applications of rock tea are related to digestive health. In particular, it is used as a supplement to stimulate digestion, reduce stomach heaviness and eliminate gas. Its tannin content gives it an astringent effect that reduces inflammation and protects the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract.
Its flavonoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, promote intestinal function and adequate production of gastric juices, which is reflected in more efficient digestion. Ultimately, its essential oils, which act as carminatives, reduce gas build-up and promote intestinal motility.
2. Respiratory symptoms
If you are experiencing congestion and excess mucus production in your airways, you can try rock tea as a supplement to help relieve it. Due to its saponin and essential oil content, it has a slight expectorant effect that helps to thin secretions to facilitate their expulsion.
Rock tea essential oils, especially cineole and camphor, have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits that help clear the airways and reduce irritation. Although its effects are moderate and depend on the individual’s reaction to the drink, it often contributes to the temporary relief of cough, inflammation and breathing difficulties.
3. Nerve calmer
Some people use this drink as an adaptogen and a relaxant for the nervous system, due to its mild sedative effect. Its content of flavonoid compounds, which modulate neuronal activity, helps to reduce excess cortisol, the chemical substance that increases in states of stress and anxiety.
Its essential oils have relaxing properties that help reduce physical tension and nerves. The most interesting thing? It does not produce hyperstimulation like other drinks and teas that contain stimulants such as caffeine; instead, it induces a state of calm and well-being.
4. Ally against oxidative stress
The flavonoids and tannins contained in rock tea help to increase the body’s antioxidant response, neutralizing the action of free radicals. In other words, these compounds help prevent cell damage, which accelerates aging and contributes to the appearance of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular and degenerative diseases.
On the skin, it protects cells from damage caused by sun exposure and pollution, reducing the risk of wrinkles, spots and other premature signs of aging. However, its effects are not magical or anything like that. It is essential to consume it as part of a balanced and nutritious diet, and not as a substitute for a healthy lifestyle.
5. Bumps and bruises
Applied externally as a lotion or compress, rock tea is a popular remedy to help relieve bumps, bruises and wounds without bleeding. Its antioxidant compounds help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow to the injured area, which speeds up the recovery process.
It also has antiseptic properties that clean and prevent possible infections in the event of scratches or superficial bumps. Make sure to use it only on injuries that are not serious.
6. Mild pain
The presence of flavonoids and tannins in rock tea are associated with anti-inflammatory and analgesic benefits that can contribute to the relief of mild pain. These act by regulating inflammatory responses in the body; in this way, they promote the relief of muscle and joint pain, with a moderate and temporary effect.
However, clinical studies that concretely support these properties are scarce; they are generally based on anecdotal experience and the attributes of the compounds present in the plant’s leaves and flowers. More research is needed to corroborate its usefulness for this purpose.
Does rock tea help you lose weight?
No. Rock tea on its own does not have any specific properties that promote fat burning or boost metabolism. Despite this, it is a low-calorie drink that can be used to replace sugary or industrial drinks, whose energy contribution and lack of nutrients is not suitable when it comes to losing weight.
As long as it is included in the context of a balanced diet and an active lifestyle, drinking rock tea can be a complement to reducing the intake of sources of empty calories. Thus, it contributes to a healthy weight indirectly.
How to prepare rock tea
To get all the benefits of rock tea you can use it as a dessert, or if you want a comforting drink that is very low in calories. As you will see below, its preparation is quite simple.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water (250 ml).
- 2 teaspoons of dried rock tea leaves and flowers (2 g).
Preparation:
- Bring water to a boil in a small pot or kettle.
- Next, add the dried rock tea leaves and flowers to the boiling water.
- Remove the drink from the heat, cover it and let it sit for about 10 minutes so that its compounds can infuse well in the water.
- After this time, strain the tea and serve it hot.
- Optionally, sweeten it with honey or add lemon slices to enhance its flavor.
- Drink a maximum of two cups a day.
Recipe with rock tea for gases
The above drink can help relieve bloating and gas, but if you want to enhance its effect, add equal parts (1 gram of each) of rock tea with white savory (Satureja fruticosa), lemon verbena and lemon balm to the preparation.
Remedy to calm bad breath
If you have bad breath and a bad taste in your mouth, try a mixture of equal parts rock tea, mint, green anise and parsley. Infuse the herbs for 10 minutes and, once it’s ready, consume it or use it as a mouthwash (even better if you do both).
Remedy for bruises and contusions
Another alternative for minor bumps, bruises and contusions is to combine rock tea with calendula, thyme and cat’s tail (3 grams of each plant in half a liter of boiling water). Once the plant extracts are concentrated in the infusion, strain them and spray the liquid externally on the affected parts. You can also apply it as a compress with the help of a cloth.
Rock tea recipe for colds and coughs
To enhance the expectorant and anti-inflammatory effect of rock tea in case of colds and coughs, combine it with equal parts of thyme and marshmallow (2 g of each spice). After letting the infusion rest, add a few drops of lemon juice and consume it warm.
If you are taking medication or have a pre-existing condition, consult your doctor before trying these rock tea remedies.
Risks and contraindications
Rock tea is generally safe for most people when consumed in the proper dosage: 1 to 2 grams of dried leaves and flowers per cup of water (250 ml), no more than three times a day. Side effects and contraindications are usually associated with high doses.
Although no exhaustive studies have been done on this subject, large quantities can lead to adverse reactions such as:
- Gastric irritation (nausea, bloating, and heartburn).
- Allergic reactions (skin rashes, digestive discomfort and breathing difficulties).
As with other plants, it is possible that it may cause interactions with medications due to its content of flavonoids, tannins and other active compounds. However, there is no official information on this matter. Cautious use is recommended if you are undergoing treatment with:
- Antidiabetics.
- Anticoagulants.
- Anxiolytics and sedatives.
- Drugs for the liver and kidneys.
The lack of formal scientific evidence on the plant also makes it difficult to determine its safety in specific cases, such as pregnancy and breastfeeding and patients with liver and kidney disease. These are not official contraindications, but prudent use under medical supervision is recommended.
As with many medicinal plants, the effects and tolerance to rock tea can vary depending on individual sensitivity. Hence the importance of starting with low doses and observing any adverse reactions.
A traditional remedy with modest effects
Rock tea is a traditional drink with a long history of consumption in Aragon and other Mediterranean regions, where it is used as a digestive and soothing remedy. Despite this, you should keep in mind that its effects are modest, rather preventive, and should not be considered a substitute for medical treatments in case of health problems.
If you are experiencing bloating, stress, colds or mild pain, you can include it in a comprehensive approach to promote relief by prioritizing a balanced diet, optimal hydration and other healthy habits. But if the symptoms are severe or prolonged, discard it as a remedy and seek professional attention.
