I'm excited.
This is the first time I've ever grown bamboo...and had no idea that you could use it for tea.
Here goes.
First you harvest 4 or 5 of the spiky leaves.
*yes...fresh bamboo does contain cyanide...but you would have to use a lot...a mean a whole lot...it is trace amounts...
Wash leaves in cool water and pat dry.
You can use them green....or dry them for later.
If you want to try green tea and do not have access to fresh bamboo..or don't want to wait to grow some of your own...you can buy it here.
https://www.swansonvitamins.com/p/uncle-lees-tea-organic-bamboo-tea-mint-18-bag-s?SourceCode=INTL4071&showPopup=f&DFA=1&UTM_Medium=Shopping&UTM_Source=GOOGLE&UTM_Campaign=+Healthy+Food&UTM_Content=PRODUCT_GROUP&SourceCode=INTL4071&gclsrc=aw.ds&gclid=Cj0KCQjw08aYBhDlARIsAA_gb0feP6QzX_3WA1512Rzk91aFgJA63goqAPufV2eRX_HE0r2nKee6spoaAmSyEALw_wcB
Dried, it will look like this-
and makes a darker cup of tea.
Fresh it looks like....well...bamboo leaves.
Making the tea is simple.
Place the fresh leaves in a tea cup...cover with boiling water...let steep for 3 minutes.
The fresh leaves will produce a green tea with a grassy smell but slightly sweet flavor.
The younger the spring leaves...the sweeter the flavor.
You can add a bit of sugar or honey if you want it sweeter.
The natural sweetness was a surprise.
All in all, very refreshing and nice.
Its benefits include anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
It is also suppose to be beneficial for skin and thicker healthier hair.
So enjoy!
Next week we will check out the province of Jilin.