Fragrant osmanthus (guihua)

Osmanthus odorata: A fragrant flower infusion from China

The fragrant osmanthus (Osmanthus fragrans), known in China as Gui Hua (桂花, guìhuā), is not only a beautiful plant but also the source of one of the most aromatic and beloved floral infusions in China. Its delicate golden flowers are used both to flavor traditional tea (Camellia sinensis) and to prepare a stand-alone herbal infusion, prized for its unique aroma, flavor, and use in traditional Chinese medicine.

The plant and its aroma

The fragrant osmanthus is an evergreen shrub or small tree, reaching 12 meters in height. In late summer or early fall, it is covered with myriads of tiny flowers (usually golden-yellow, but also white and orange), gathered in small clusters. The main treasure of these flowers is their incredibly strong, yet delicate and sweet fragrance, often compared to the scent of ripe apricots, peaches, or honey. This scent is so prized that the osmanthus is one of the ten most famous traditional flowers of China.

Gui Hua: Flower Infusion

Dried osmanthus flowers can be steeped directly, creating a delicious herbal infusion that's caffeine-free. It's important to distinguish this beverage from Gui Hua Cha (桂花茶, Guìhuā chá), which is used to flavor tea leaves (green, oolong, or black). An infusion of pure osmanthus flowers allows you to enjoy its aroma and flavor in its purest form.

Taste and aroma

An infusion of osmanthus flowers gives an indescribable sensation:

• Aroma: Intense, sweet, floral, with recognizable notes of apricot and peach.
• Taste: Light, delicate, smooth, with a natural sweetness that echoes the fruity, honeyed notes of the aroma. It is completely free of bitterness.
• Aftertaste: Refreshing, sweetish, long.

This is a very soft, calming and pleasant drink that can be drunk at any time of the day.

Traditional uses and benefits

In traditional Chinese medicine, the flowers, fruits, and even roots of osmanthus have been used for centuries. The flowers are said to have the following properties:

• Warming: Considered a warm-natured herb (性温, Xìng wēn), it is beneficial for cold-related conditions.
• For the respiratory system: Used to relieve coughs, thin and remove mucus, and for asthma.
• For digestion: Helps with stomach pain (especially from cold), diarrhea.
• Pain relief: Used for toothache, rheumatism, menstrual pain.
• For skin and beauty: The infusion is believed to improve skin condition and promote the elimination of toxins.
• Freshen breath: Helps with bad breath (halitosis).
• Harmonization: Calms the nervous system, improves mood.

Modern research also indicates that osmanthus extracts have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and other biologically active properties.

Recommendations for brewing pure flowers

1. Amount: About 1 teaspoon (about 2-3 grams) per cup (150-200 ml).
2. Water: Freshly boiled water (about 100°C).
3. Steeping time: About 3-5 minutes.
4. Tableware: It is recommended to use glassware (teapot, cup, gaiwan) to admire the opening of delicate golden flowers.
5. Additives: The infusion itself is sweet, but you can add a little honey if desired.

Gui Hua, an infusion made from fragrant osmanthus flowers , is more than just a drink with a delightful natural aroma of peach and apricot and a delicate, sweet flavor. It's part of Chinese culture and traditional medicine, a drink that warms, soothes, improves mood, and offers potential health benefits. Its lightness, caffeine-free nature, and enchanting aroma make it a wonderful choice for a cozy tea party at any time.