IVAN CHAÏ

Fireweed is common throughout Northern Asia. Its fermented use originated deep within ancient Ural tribes and then became a staple for all Slavs, including Ukrainians from the Carpathians. Ivan Chai means "Ivan's tea," a common name, somewhat like "everyone's tea" for those who want to control their weight and digest well. The leaves are wild-harvested in the mountains. They are crushed to release their juice, allowing fermentation to begin in an airtight environment. Then they are placed for at least 3 days in dryers where, at a stable and moderate temperature, fermentation stops and the leaves blacken. When brewed, you will appreciate notes of light honey, ripe fruit, and a herbaceous hint, with a softly floral finish.

Notes: Fruity, very gourmand.

Ingredients: 100% fermented Fireweed (Chamerion angustifolium) - Hand-picked in the wild, exclusively in the Carpathian Mountains (Ukraine).

Use: All day, as often as desired

Preparation: 2 tablespoons for 1 liter of pure or filtered water, heated to 90 °C. Steep for 10 to 12 minutes. Pour into a thermos and take with you to drink generously throughout the day.

Can be re-infused up to 3 times

A few words from Anna Zaptalova, our Tea-Triber on site in Ukraine:

"It's interesting to note how much Ivan Chai has gained recognition, whereas there was a time when counterfeiters would cut imported Chinese black tea with locally produced Ivan Chai, without telling anyone, to increase their margins... Nowadays, Ivan Chai is highly prized and more expensive than most Chinese teas, as it is considered to be more highly beneficial for health.

In Ukraine, Ivan Chai grows naturally in the wild wilderness of the great Carpathian Mountains, a region of great purity. Local farmers pick it by hand and process it using ancestral methods.

You will be captivated by the fruity and gourmet notes of Ivan Chai. A pleasant surprise awaits you, and what's more, it's excellent for your health, as it's rich in probiotics due to fermentation."