Medicinal properties of fireweed (fireweed), recipes for folk remedies based on it, contraindications. Ivan tea (angustifolia fireweed): medicinal properties and contraindications

Mentions of a tasty and healthy drink made from fireweed can be found in chronicles of the 12th century. In Rus' at that time the plant was called differently.

• “Drema” (“drowsiness”, “silent grass”, “krypnik”) is a means for sound sleep.
• “Puhovichok” is a plant with down inside the fruit.
• Skrypen, weeping - a creaking stem (creaks when pulled out of the ground).

And a number of unusual names, the origin of which is difficult to explain: magpie eyes, miller's apple, cockerel apples, springberry.

Literally, the name “Ivan-chai” means “Russian” tea. The word “Ivan” was used to call all Russians in Europe. Before the appearance of Chinese leaf tea (black and green) in Europe, the population of Western European countries drank Koporye tea - a drink made from the fermented leaves and flowers of the fireweed plant (or Ivan tea). It was Russia that exported plant raw materials and tea leaves to Germany, France and England.

The second name of tea - Koporsky - owes its origin to the village of Koporye (near St. Petersburg). Here, in the 13th century, local monks first fermented the leaves of the plant. Its extensive thickets around the village made it possible to produce fermented tea for export in large quantities.

In the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries, the export of Koporye tea from Russia exceeded the export of Russian gold and honey. Even in England, until the 19th century, “Russian” tea was preferred to Indian black tea (despite the fact that the latter was grown in one of the colonies of Great Britain).

After the revolution of 1917, the plant and tea were undeservedly forgotten not only in Europe, but also at home.

Medicinal substances of plants

The herb Ivan tea grows throughout Russia and neighboring post-Soviet states (in particular, in Ukraine there is as much of this plant as in Kuban). The tall stem with a long peduncle and many small red flowers reaches 1.5 m. When dried, the petals acquire a blue tint. Bees love the flowering period; they collect healing honey from the blossoming inflorescences. By the way, the drink itself also retains the taste of nectar.

The unpretentiousness of the plant makes it an accessible remedy for treating the whole body.

Medicinal substances are contained mainly in leaves and flowers, in smaller quantities they are found in stems and roots.

The raw materials include:

• Vitamin C (6 times more than in rose hips and than in lemon) is the famous ascorbic acid, an immunity vitamin - up to 1% by weight of the raw material.
• Vitamin B is the vitamin of growth, beauty, strength.
• Carotenoids are provitamins for vision and growth.
• Micro and trace elements: iron, copper, manganese (there are more of these substances), magnesium, sodium, potassium, calcium, titanium, boron, nickel (there are fewer of them) - up to 1% by weight of the raw material.
• Tannins (20%), flavonoids and carotenoids - these three groups of substances provide the antibacterial properties of the plant.
• Polysaccharides (aka mucus) - treat digestion, their content in leaves is up to 15%,
• Pectins and chlorophyll are biologically active substances that provide metabolism and hematopoiesis.
• Proteins - provide the energy effect of the drink (easily digestible proteins of Ivan tea tone and add strength) - up to 20%.
• Alkaloids (they cause drowsiness and calm when overexcited) - up to 1%.

How is fireweed tea useful? A drink made from fermented fireweed leaves has a tonic effect. At the same time, it does not contain caffeine (which is found in tea and coffee), but there are other alkaloids (up to 1%).

It quenches thirst and increases hemoglobin, restores the acid-base balance in the blood (this action is provided by chlorophyll and magnesium). Normalizes digestion and metabolism. It is a powerful natural antiseptic, treats inflammation and infections.

Fireweed (fireweed) is considered a friend of the male body. Normalizes the functioning of the prostate gland and treats impotence, prostatitis, adenoma. And also - infertility (in both men and women).

Interesting fact: The researcher and popularizer of the healing properties of the plant became a father at the age of one hundred (!) years. His name is Pyotr Aleksandrovich Badmaev, a doctor, orientalist and diplomat. He lived to be 110 years old and was killed after the revolution in one of the St. Petersburg prisons.

For women of any age, the plant is valuable for its mild calming effect. You can drink Ivan tea at night instead of sleeping pills. In addition, the plant reduces nervousness and excitability, improves the psycho-emotional state, and makes night rest more complete.

Want something interesting?

The healing properties of fireweed tea can relieve headaches and lower blood pressure.

By enhancing collagen synthesis, tea improves skin condition (increases elasticity) and prolongs youth.

The benefits of Ivan tea are manifested in the improvement of each digestive organ.

What are the benefits of Ivan tea:

• Cleanses organs of toxins.
• Drives away stagnant bile (this action is provided by magnesium and flavonoids);
• Treats dysbacteriosis, gastritis, ulcers, heartburn.
• Eliminates constipation, flatulence.

Against the background of cleansing the digestive organs, the allergic mood of the body decreases. This is how the plant exhibits anti-allergic effects.

A number of other beneficial properties of plant materials include increased lactation, decreased temperature, increased fluid outflow (diuretic effect).

The benefits of Ivan tea for the body are multifaceted. This natural raw material contains 1% alkaloids - bitter, toxic substances. Therefore, before brewing, the leaves are fermented to destroy these components. What does the term fermentation mean, and how to properly prepare leaves for brewing?

Proper Herb Collection and Application

The beneficial properties of fireweed tea are fully manifested only with proper collection, drying or fermentation of raw materials. Where and how to collect and dry fireweed?

Ivan tea is a pioneer herb. She is the first to sow areas of forest fires, clearings, railway embankments, and drained peatlands. Loves dry sandy soils. It is in these open places that you need to look for tall peduncles.

The leaves and flower clusters of the plant are collected as a medicine. The best harvest is during the flowering period. At this time, the maximum concentration of beneficial substances of the fireweed plant is reached in the plant.

Since the flowering period of the fireweed herb lasts more than two months (from July to September), leaves for tea are collected selectively. The best time for harvesting plant materials is the phase of incomplete blooming of flowers. Plant materials must be dry, so harvesting is done in dry weather.

You can collect the plant in the following ways:

• Break off the entire upper ground part of the plant, along with the leaves and peduncle (this is done for brewing tea without fermenting preparation).
• Pluck only green leaves, leaving flowers on the stem (this is done when the raw material is intended for further fermentation). Additionally, the method of selectively harvesting leaves allows the plant to produce mature seeds.
• Cut off the tops of the grass. Tea is harvested in this way in the first half of May. The May harvest has gained fame as the most energy-drinking drink.

Important: It is better to collect leaves separately from flowers. The leaves are subject to fermentation, but the flower stalks do not need to be fermented; they are added to tea for a pleasant aroma.

Further processing: drying, drying or fermenting

The easiest way to prepare fireweed tea is to dry the raw materials in the shade. This process does not involve any fermentation. This is how most medicinal herbs are prepared.

A more complex method of preparing fireweed tea involves fermentation of its raw materials. What is it and how is it done?

Fermentation is the process of oxidation of plant materials with its own enzymes. This oxidation allows you to convert insoluble components into soluble substances that are easily digestible. And also (important!) Fermentation destroys the alkaloids present in the plant.

Fermentation requires plant sap. Therefore, the leaves are crushed to release the juice and laid out for fermentation (a temperature of +25ºC is required, duration is up to 10 hours).

After a specified amount of time, the raw materials are dried at 100ºC. This stops further fermentation and preserves the maximum beneficial substances of the fireweed herb.

Important: plant fluff should not get into the raw materials for subsequent fermentation.

It ripens towards the end of summer inside the seed pods on the lower branches of fireweed. The traditional use of this down in old Russian villages is to stuff pillows.

Preparation of fireweed tea and fermentation

Since fermentation provides the most complete beneficial composition of tea and reduces the amount of alkaloids, the leaves of the plant after collection are subjected to the following processing.

The collected raw materials are laid out on natural fabric (linen or cotton) in a layer of 3-5 cm (indoors). Do not place it outdoors under a canopy or in direct sunlight. At +20 +24ºC and 70% humidity, they are dried for 12 hours, stirring occasionally (in a room with a good draft, the leaves do not dry, but dry).

The second method of wilting at home is to fold the leaves inside dense natural fabric. To do this, they are scattered on fabric and rolled up. The fabric absorbs excess moisture and prevents the leaves from drying out.

By the end of withering, the leaf loses almost half of its moisture (40% to be exact). At the same time, the elasticity of the green leaves disappears (if you squeeze them into a fist and then straighten your palm, the leaves do not return to their original size, they remain crumpled and compressed).

• Rolled between palms (this is how raw materials for small-leaf tea are obtained).
• Place in a bowl or other convenient container and “knead” for 15 minutes. - this is how you get tea leaves for a large-leaf drink.
• Grind in a meat grinder (this is how granulated tea is obtained).

Thoroughly crumpled or twisted leaves of the fireweed herb are placed in a glass or enamel container, pressed with a weight and placed in a warm place for fermentation. The temperature should be within +20 +25ºC. Below +15ºC the processes stop. Above +30ºC, some of the soluble substances acquire an insoluble form, and the drink loses its healing properties and aroma.

The process can take from 6 to 36 hours. At the same time, 6 hours of light fermentation create green aromatic tea. 16 hours adds tartness and sourness. More than 30 hours - they give a strong astringency (this is deep fermentation).

Important: When fermenting at home, the container is covered with a damp cloth. If the fabric dries out, it is moistened. Small amounts of tea can be fermented inside a plastic bag.

At the end of the process, the mass is dried in an oven or oven at +100ºC (1 to 2 hours).

Brew, infuse and drink tea with pleasure

To brew fireweed tea correctly, with maximum health benefits, use clean water (live spring or filtered). Do not bring the water to a full boil, remove the kettle from the heat when the water is about to boil (the so-called “white boil”, it corresponds to 96-98ºC).

To brew two cups of tea, take 500 ml of water and two teaspoons of tea leaves (it is placed in an earthenware or glass container, poured with “almost boiling water” and left for 10-15 minutes).

It is interesting to know the unusual properties of Ivan tea: The same tea leaves can be filled with new boiling water up to five times.

For external use (washing wounds, skin rashes, rinsing the mouth), fireweed tea is brewed in a higher concentration (3 tablespoons of raw material per 250 ml of water).

Contraindications of fireweed tea

Ivan tea during pregnancy

Pregnancy is a special state of the female body, when there is no illness, but a very careful attitude is necessary to what gets into food and drink, to medications, sedatives and stimulants. Is it possible to drink Ivan tea during pregnancy?

Unfermented raw materials contain alkaloids. Therefore, during pregnancy, you can only drink fermented fireweed tea.

The drink will be beneficial for toxicosis, edema, low hemoglobin and a tendency to bleed (low blood clotting). But it can cause harm if there is a threat of miscarriage or increased uterine tone.

The medicinal properties of fireweed tea directly depend on the quality of assembly, drying and fermentation. Therefore, if the plant does not have a qualitative effect, perhaps your tea has not been properly processed and has not acquired the full range of beneficial properties.

The useful decoction of angustifolia fireweed is often called – Koporsky, Russian tea, Ivan tea, even “down jacket” due to the appearance of abundant fluff during the flowering of the plant. It doesn’t matter what the name of Ivan tea is, the beneficial properties of the drink do not change and you can safely call this drink the most useful decoction.

Healing properties of Ivan tea

The abundance of beneficial properties of the Koporye drink determines its use for a huge number of diseases. Some medicinal properties of Ivan tea have been known to us since childhood, because It can be drunk by adults, children, even pregnant women. How is Ivan tea useful for the body? The uniqueness of the plant lies in its composition: it is rich in minerals, vitamins, tannins and flavonoids. The beneficial properties of the herb Ivan tea are used in the treatment of the following diseases:

• diabetes;
• prostatitis;
• colds;
• insomnia;
• stomach ulcer, duodenal ulcer;
• neuroses, headaches;
• cystitis.

It is difficult to list all the ailments that this useful herb will help you cope with. Koporye tea improves immunity and is extremely useful for children and pregnant women as a general tonic. The properties of tea are irreplaceable for both the female and male body, and all the benefits of Ivan tea are contained in its composition; it is difficult to imagine that this very ordinary herbaceous plant contains:

• vitamin C;
• amino acids;
• vitamins B1, B2;
• carotene;
• pectin substances;
• iron, manganese;
• tannin;
• gallic acid;
• bioflavonoids.

All the beneficial properties of the herb are manifested during the process of its fermentation, i.e. preparations. Depending on the drying technology, the tea turns out green, red or black. The difference between fermentation is that the herb is in the process of oxidizing and drying for different amounts of time. From one plant you can get drinks of different tastes, but the benefits do not change.

Ivan tea for weight loss

It is known that doctors prescribe Ivan tea for diabetes mellitus due to its ability to regulate blood sugar levels. This ability is not only useful for diabetes, but also if you want to lose weight. It is useful to drink Ivan tea for weight loss, replacing sweets and unhealthy drinks. This drink improves metabolic processes in the body, normalizes digestion, which is important when fighting extra pounds, without having any contraindications.

Ivan tea for gastritis

Truly a unique plant is Koporskaya herb, the infusion of which treats a huge number of ailments without contraindications, including gastrointestinal diseases. Ivan tea is used for gastritis because of its enveloping, analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect on the gastric mucosa. Drinking a decoction of this medicinal herb is an excellent prevention of colitis, pancreatitis and ulcers. It is better to drink the infusion in the morning and evening on an empty stomach, no more than 150 ml at a time, this recipe has no contraindications.

Ivan tea for pancreatitis

An inflammatory disease that develops in the pancreas is treated with complex medication and is accompanied by diets. But pancreatitis can also be treated using folk remedies. Ivan tea is useful for pancreatitis if consumed together with a diet and other healthy herbs: peppermint, dandelion, golden agrimony. Before starting such treatment, you should definitely consult your doctor, because individual intolerance may be a contraindication.

Ivan tea for colds

Ivan tea for kidneys

Urologists recommend drinking an infusion of fireweed angustifolia during an exacerbation of cystitis. The decoction has a mild diuretic and anti-inflammatory effect. Often, timely treatment with a decoction of willowherb helps to avoid the use of strong antibiotics for cystitis, and to alleviate symptoms during exacerbation of the disease. The mineral complex contained in the medicinal plant has a beneficial effect on the bladder mucosa and helps to quickly cope with inflammation. Ivan tea is also useful for the kidneys as a preventive remedy that has no contraindications.

Contraindications of the herb Ivan-tea

All medicinal herbs have their contraindications, which are a consequence of the medicinal composition. The contraindications of the herb Ivan tea are pleasantly surprising - only individual intolerance can become a contraindication for use if you drink the medicinal drink in moderation. Having learned a lot about the herb Ivan-tea - beneficial properties and contraindications, many will want to have such a wonderful remedy in their home medicine cabinet. You can buy medicinal herbs at a pharmacy, or, if possible, make your own preparation by drying the herb during its flowering:

1. It is better to collect grass in the morning, after the dew has disappeared.
2. For harvesting, you will need the upper part of the plant, where the flowering inflorescences are located.
3. The collected material is slightly dried, then rubbed with hands to release the juices.
4. Place the resulting dried mass in a three-liter jar for fermentation; cover the top of the jar with a wet napkin. The closed mass must be stirred periodically. Place the jar in a dark, cool place.
5. The fermentation process of the sheets will take up to 2 days, after which it is necessary to dry the herb in the oven.

Video

Hello, our dear readers. We have already discussed in previous articles what kind of plant this plant is - fireweed (angustifolia fireweed), its benefits for humans, and its unique chemical composition. Today we have prepared for you a more detailed article about what Ivan tea treats and its effect in the treatment of various diseases and, of course, how to take it and methods of preparation.

The properties of fireweed tea for those people who suffer from various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, disorders of the stomach and digestion are very well known. The mucus, tannins and other substances contained in its composition cope very well with foci of inflammation of the stomach and intestines and envelop the mucous membrane. Therefore, it is prescribed as an effective adjuvant for the treatment of ulcers, gastritis and enterocolitis. Taking drinks from fireweed (fireweed), they have a beneficial effect on the microflora of the gastrointestinal tract, normalize digestive processes, and fight constipation, flatulence, and diarrhea.

Ivan tea recipe for treating the gastrointestinal tract

You will need:

• finely chopped fireweed leaves - 2 tablespoons;
• boiling water - 2 cups.

Preparation:

To prepare a drink recipe that has a good astringent effect, you need to mix two glasses of boiling water with 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fireweed leaves and leave them to brew in a thermos for 6 hours.

How to use:

In this case of treatment, such herbal tea should be taken 1/4 cup 4 times a day on an empty stomach.

Recipe for treating gastritis, ulcers and their prevention with fireweed tea

You need to take:

• pureed fireweed tea - 3 tbsp. spoons;
• hot water - 1 glass.

How to brew and take:

To treat the symptoms of peptic ulcers and gastritis, you should take a decoction of fireweed tea. The prepared 3 tablespoons of ground dry tea are poured into 1 glass of hot water, boiled for 15 minutes, filtered and added enough water to obtain the original volume of the drink. 2 tablespoons of the resulting product should be taken in the morning, at lunch and in the evening directly during meals. By the way, this same remedy can be used to treat headaches, gargle for acute tonsillitis and heal wounds on the skin (in this case, compresses are made).

The effect of fireweed on the nervous system

Due to its good ability to have a calming effect on people with increased nervousness and excitability, fireweed is often prescribed as part of a complex treatment of various types of neuroses and even mental illnesses. In stressful situations, fireweed will help cope with a nervous state and normalize sleep. This is facilitated by the presence of protein and a large amount of vitamins and minerals, the action of which has a beneficial effect on the psychological state of a person.

Recipe for treating the nervous system with Ivan tea

Have to take:

• boiled hot water - 1 glass;
• dry crushed fireweed tea - 1 tbsp. spoon.

How to prepare and take the decoction:

If you feel constant fatigue, irritation and lack of healthy sleep for a long time, try drinking a decoction made from 1 glass of hot boiled water and 1 tablespoon of chopped fireweed herbs for 1 month. The drink must be infused for half an hour, then strained and consumed 1/3 glass daily before breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Ivan tea in the treatment of the genitourinary system

The same protein, as well as the presence of such elements necessary for humans as iron, calcium, potassium, boron, sodium and others, makes fireweed tea (fireweed) an indispensable healer of diseases of the genitourinary system in both men and women. It helps representatives of the stronger sex fight prostatitis and prostate adenoma, significantly improves potency and restores male strength. The fair half of humanity is recommended to use fireweed tea if they have problems with the regularity of menstruation or experience negative side effects during PMS and menopause. Its antiseptic properties make it an excellent remedy for treating cystitis and diseases caused by harmful bacteria.

Treatment of prostatitis with Ivan tea - recipe:

Required for the recipe:

• dry fireweed - 1 tablespoon;
• 2 cups boiling water.

How to prepare and take:

To prepare a healing composition that can save a man from prostatitis, you will need the following ingredients: 1 tablespoon of dry fireweed, 2 cups of boiling water. The resulting mixture must be left for 10-15 minutes, then passed through a fine sieve or cheesecloth and placed in a cool place. It should be taken twice a day - in the morning before breakfast and in the evening half an hour before going to bed.

Another recipe for treating diseases of the genitourinary organs. Take one tablespoon of dry leaves, pour a glass of boiling water, leave for two hours and strain. The dose and regimen of use are also determined by the doctor.

Treatment with fireweed tea for ENT diseases, eye diseases

Since fireweed is famous for its effective antiseptic effect on inflamed organs, therapy using it is also prescribed to patients with diseases of the respiratory system, common colds and acute respiratory viral infections, diseases of the ears, throat and even eyes. Drinks prepared from this plant are used as an antipyretic at high temperatures. Rinsing with the same compositions can significantly improve the condition of the oral cavity, prevent the occurrence of caries and periodontal disease, and also have a healing effect in case of stomatitis.

Treatment of sinusitis

Necessary:

• dried fireweed tea - 1 tablespoon;
• boiled water - 1 glass.

How to use fireweed in the treatment of sinusitis:

To treat sinusitis, the following remedy is used: 1 tablespoon of dried fireweed tea is poured into 1 glass of boiling water, infused for half an hour, filtered and taken 1/3 glass 3 times a day half an hour before meals.

Treatment of conjunctevitis

The same composition can be used to wash eyes with conjunctivitis. For inflammation of the middle ear, it is recommended to take only a warm infusion, as it is used to moisten cotton swabs that are placed in the ears.

Positive effect of fireweed on the circulatory system

Thanks to the unique combination of vitamins and minerals, fireweed successfully copes with diseases such as anemia and anemia. Regular consumption of fireweed tea helps increase hemoglobin levels, normalizes the functioning of all systems as a whole, improves immunity and fills the body with vigor and strength. The increased content of antioxidants makes it an active fighter against free radicals, capable of preventing the harmful effects of these particles on cells and protecting them from premature aging. Its positive effect is manifested in how quickly fireweed (fireweed) cleanses blood vessels and other body systems of waste, toxins, heavy metals and other harmful substances.

Recipe for fireweed tea for the treatment of anemia

Have to take:

• dry or fresh Ivan tea - 1 tablespoon;
• boiled water - 1 glass.

Prepare and take:

The recipe for a decoction used for anemia is just as easy to prepare as those given above: 1 tablespoon of dry or fresh fireweed is poured into 1 glass of boiling water, infused for 2 hours, passed through cheesecloth and placed in the refrigerator. This mixture should be taken 1 tablespoon in the morning, lunch and evening.

It is best to discuss the duration of the course with your doctor.

Skin diseases and their treatment with fireweed tea

Being an excellent antiseptic, fireweed tea also has a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin. It helps in the treatment of diseases such as dermatitis and eczema, regardless of the nature of their origin. Also, fireweed drinks are recommended for patients with psoriasis, as it significantly alleviates the course of the disease and the unpleasant symptoms of this disease.

In addition to decoctions and infusions, products for external use are prepared from it, which are used to wash open wounds, scratches and abrasions. Such compresses not only speed up healing, but also rejuvenate the skin, making it firmer and smoother. The beneficial substances contained in this plant can accelerate collagen synthesis, making the skin less susceptible to age-related changes and maintaining a youthful and attractive appearance longer.

Ivan tea in the treatment of oncology

One of the most important properties of fireweed is its ability to fight cancer. It is usually included in mixtures of several herbs and is used for the prevention and treatment of cancer (usually as an additional remedy to medications). Although some adherents of traditional medicine claim that fireweed successfully fights malignant tumors on its own, without adding other ingredients.

Recipe for treating cancer with fireweed tea

Required:

• freshly harvested fireweed tea - 10 g;
• water - 1 glass.

How to prepare and take:

Even many doctors suggest that patients with this diagnosis take the following decoction 3 times a day, shortly before meals: pour 10 grams of fresh fireweed herbs into 1 glass of warm water, bring the mixture to a boil, keep it on low heat for another 15 minutes, then leave for for 1 hour and strain. The recommended dose is 1 tablespoon of the drink per dose.

More useful and medicinal recipes for Ivan tea

Treatment of purely male diseases. To prepare a healing drink, you need 15 g of dry tea and 200 ml of boiling water. The composition filled with water is infused for one hour, then filtered and taken one tablespoon three times a day after meals.

Treatment of otitis, stomatitis, sore throat. In this case, 2 tablespoons of tea are poured with a couple of glasses of boiling water, left to infuse for 6 hours, filtered and taken as prescribed by the doctor.

Preparation of an analgesic and soothing infusion. 1 tablespoon of prepared dry tea is poured into a glass of boiling water, left for 45 minutes, passed through cheesecloth and taken 1 tablespoon three times a day. This remedy is especially effective for insomnia and nervous disorders.

Preparing an infusion for a steam bath before a cosmetic massage. 1 tablespoon of fireweed flowers is poured into a glass of hot water and used immediately before the mixture has cooled.

Making an anti-inflammatory mask. To do this, you must first infuse 10 ml of fireweed flowers in alcohol or vodka, then add half a small spoon of salt and oatmeal to them. The resulting mixture should be thoroughly mixed until it becomes liquid sour cream and applied to the face for about 10 minutes.

When else is it good to use fireweed?

Pregnant women and nursing mothers are usually not recommended to indulge in herbal infusions, as they can have a negative impact on the baby’s health, but these prohibitions do not apply to fireweed tea. Studies have shown that with moderate use there are no side effects. In addition, thanks to the universal combination of useful components, it can have a beneficial effect on the health of mother and child, enhance the production of breast milk and alleviate the condition of babies during teething.
Anyone who wants to always be cheerful and full of energy is recommended to drink Koporye tea twice a day, which is prepared according to a very simple recipe: 1 teaspoon of dry fireweed is poured into 1 glass of boiling water in a regular teapot and infused in the same way as regular black tea. The positive effect of taking this drink is felt within a few days after you start using the decoction.

Ivan-tea is one of the popular folk names for the medicinal plant fireweed angustifolia. In other words, it is called Koporye tea, male herb, skrypnik, plakun and dremukha. What beneficial properties does Ivan tea have?

In this article we will analyze in detail the features of this plant, find out all the pros and cons of its use in different cases, and also talk about methods of preparation and consumption.

Description of the plant

Fireweed angustifolia, or fireweed(photo above) is a herbaceous perennial plant. It is very unpretentious, widespread throughout our country and has a rather attractive appearance.

A beautiful panicle of delicate pink or purple flowers is located at the top of the stem, and the dark green leaves are somewhat similar to the narrow leaves of a weeping willow.

Willow-herb easily grows on any abandoned plots of land; it especially likes to be located on forest edges and clearings. The plant can reach one and a half meters in height. During the mass flowering season, from June to September, dense thickets of fireweed look very picturesque.

Richly and long-blooming fireweed is an excellent honey plant. The aromatic honey from its flowers has special healing properties.

Chemical composition

The medicinal plant fireweed has many health benefits in its composition.

Preparations from this plant normalize the functioning of the endocrine system, improve kidney function, and strengthen the immune system.

They contain large quantities of biologically active substances and a strong vitamin and mineral complex.

Let's list the most important components:

• bioflavonoids (vitamin P);
• alkaloids;
• (B1,B2) and C;
• amino acids, antioxidants;
• hanerol (antitumor effect);
• , potassium, copper, sodium, boron, manganese;
• pectin, carotene;
• tannins (tannins).

Beneficial features

Before flowering, young shoots of fireweed contain about 20% protein. Adding raw green leaves to salads allows vegetarians and fasting people to maintain an optimal balance of nutrients in their diet.

Fireweed helps the body cleanse itself of harmful substances both during and after drug therapy. Removes toxins and waste by stimulating the excretory systems, including increasing the outflow of bile.

Tea from this plant perfectly calms the nervous system. It is used as a sedative and helps to cope with increased mental stress and stress. Increases mental performance due to the content of important amino acids, including glycine.

In case of severe fatigue and physical exhaustion, a drink made from fireweed tea relaxes the body well due to the effects of alkaloids. At the same time, it slightly alkalinizes the blood, which contributes to the effective restoration of vitality.

With all the listed beneficial properties of the fireweed plant, its only drawback can be considered the undesirability of constant use. Its advantages also include the complete absence of such negative components of other tonic drinks as caffeine, oxalic and puric acids.

Application in medical practice

• Tannins - tannins, which give fireweed tea (fireweed tea) its characteristic tart taste, have a high anti-inflammatory effect. This property is widely used in the treatment of inflammation of internal organs and skin.
• The high content of iron in the juice of the plant makes it possible to successfully use an infusion of fireweed tea to get rid of various types of iron deficiency. .
• The presence of a large amount of mucus in the fireweed herb gives preparations made from it an enveloping effect, which is widely used to treat gastrointestinal diseases. It is also used as a mild laxative and choleretic agent for constipation and digestive problems.
• The diuretic effect of the plant is used in the treatment of inflammatory diseases of the urinary system, helps in removing stones from the kidneys and bladder.
• Chanerol, an antitumor drug that has been successfully used in the treatment of cancer, was synthesized from fireweed flowers. An infusion of fireweed flowers is a preventative against various cancers.

The plant has also been found to have high antiviral and antibacterial activity. Its ability to suppress the development of the herpes virus, as well as inhibit other pathogenic microflora, has been proven.

Used for treatment and prevention of acute respiratory infections and other seasonal infectious diseases.

• The herb fireweed contains the active substance hyperoside, which strengthens blood vessels and capillaries and can help a person maintain a vigorous state and youthful appearance longer. Doctors say that our youth primarily depends on the health of our blood vessels.
• Preparations made from fireweed juice are effective for enhancing blood clotting function. This property of the herb is widely used in folk medicine to stop various types of bleeding, including uterine bleeding. Not used in case of arterial.
• Fireweed tea helps regulate blood sugar levels. The drink slightly reduces appetite. This ability of preparations from the plant can also be used to lose excess weight.
• The medicinal property of drinks made from fireweed tea to relieve muscle spasms is used in folk medicine as an additional remedy for eliminating incessant hiccups and vomiting in cancer patients during chemotherapy.

In folk medicine, fireweed preparations are deservedly popular in the treatment of female diseases. They have a lactogenic effect: a decoction of fireweed leaves enhances the production of breast milk in nursing mothers.

It is also used as an additional remedy for the treatment of female infertility and obstruction of the fallopian tubes, helps in eliminating adhesions and various inflammations of the female genital area.

Helps normalize the monthly cycle and has a restorative effect during pregnancy.

The beneficial properties of preparations from fireweed tea help relieve unpleasant symptoms during menopause, as well as improve the condition of the skin and hair. Contraindications for women:

• individual intolerance;
• bleeding disorders;
• phlebeurysm;
• vein thrombosis

Some medicinal properties of the herb Ivan tea are also relevant for solving traditional male problems. The healing decoction contains the amino acid alanine, thanks to which it fights diseases of the genitourinary system.

It also normalizes and improves erectile function in men due to the effects of flavonoids, one of which is vitamin P. It is for this property that fireweed received one of its names - “male herb”.

Used for the treatment and prevention of prostatitis and. However, there are also specific contraindications for men. Excessive use of this drug can inhibit male potency due to the sedative effect of plant preparations.

General contraindications

• Individual intolerance;
• severe allergic reaction to pollen and herbal preparations;
• Not recommended for chronic hypotension, as it lowers blood pressure.

Medicinal tea from the plant increases blood clotting and can lead to thickening. This must be taken into account by those who have a tendency to form blood clots.

It is not recommended to continue the course of taking fireweed preparations for more than one month. With prolonged use, the active substances contained in the plant can cause diarrhea. It is better to take an equal break in taking the drug, and then you can repeat the course.

You should not use fireweed tea in combination with sedatives, as the content of such substances may increase the effect excessively. Also, you should not combine it with antipyretics, for the same reason.

Method of use

• pour a teaspoon of dry herb into a glass of boiling water, cover with a lid;
• leave for 15-20 minutes, preferably covered with a towel to retain heat;
• strain. The remaining raw materials can be refilled with boiling water;
• The finished infusion is stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

The beneficial properties of fireweed tea are best manifested when properly prepared and prepared. Fresh, dried or fermented fireweed herb is used to prepare medicinal drinks.

Special processing of the plant - fermentation can be carried out using different technologies. During preparation, raw materials go through the stages of mechanical processing, oxidation and then drying. The degree of oxidation and the properties of the final product depend on the time allowed for fermentation.

With different processing and drying methods, the tea turns out to be green, red or black. Drinks made from it differ in appearance and taste, but all beneficial properties are preserved.

As a result of properly performed fermentation, medicinal tea acquires a rich color, slightly tart taste and a special fruity aroma.

Preparation, storage and preparation of fireweed tea

Making fermented fireweed tea yourself is not at all difficult. Here is a simple recipe that you can use to do this:

• Collect the green leaves and flowers of fireweed separately early in the morning. At this time of day, all beneficial substances are maximally concentrated in the leaves of plants.
• To make tea you need the leaves, not the flowers. But they can also be added to the collection later, after fermentation.
• Dry the collected raw materials slightly, and then thoroughly mash them with your hands or a wooden masher until the juice appears.
• Place the mashed mass in a glass jar, cover with clean paper or cloth and place in a cool, dark place.
• Periodically stir and shake the contents of the jar to avoid caking of the raw materials.
• One and a half to two days will be enough for the first fermentation experience. Later, you will be able to select the required time yourself, focusing on your own preferences.
• After this, the fireweed herb must be removed from the jar and dried thoroughly. It is better to do this in the oven at the lowest temperature or in an electric fruit dryer.
• Drying outdoors is only possible in very low humidity conditions, on the hottest summer days. Otherwise, there is a risk of mold.
• Grind the finished tea by hand to the size of tea crumbs you require.

Since ancient times, fireweed tea has been popular as a medicinal and restorative drink among different peoples of the world.

The history of its mentions in literature on the territory of modern Russia dates back to the 12th century. The so-called Koporye tea, made from the Ivan tea plant, was produced on the Koporye estate near St. Petersburg during the time of Tsarina Catherine the Great.

Since then, this name has spread as one of the popular names for this drink. For some time it was even exported to Europe, but was later pushed out of the market by Indian tea and gradually forgotten.

Since the nineties of the last century, interest in the study and use of fireweed in folk medicine and pharmacology has been revived.

Now there are individual entrepreneurs and even farms that are engaged in the procurement and production of valuable medicinal raw materials from fireweed.

We remind you that the information presented in this article is for informational purposes only. For various diseases, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor to decide on taking medicines from fireweed and to determine therapeutic dosages.

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Higher education (Cardiology). Cardiologist, therapist, functional diagnostics doctor. I am well versed in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract and cardiovascular system. Graduated from the academy (full-time), with extensive work experience behind her.

Specialty: Cardiologist, Therapist, Functional diagnostics doctor.

Good afternoon, dear guests of the blog “The Healing Power of Resin”. Not long ago I talked about how you can cleanse your blood vessels of cholesterol. For those who haven't read it, I highly recommend it!

Today we have an article about a plant that most of you are probably familiar with, but whose healing power is greatly underestimated by many. This plant has many names, but among the people it is mainly known as Ivan - tea or Fireweed.

Other, less common names for Ivan tea are:

• Skrypnik
• Fireweed
• Plakun
• Dremukha
• Queen cell
• Miller
• Breadbox

There are many names, but personally, after 12 years of working as a herbalist, I have never heard Ivan tea called that, although I do not rule out that somewhere in the outback there are still places where Fireweed can be called Dremukha or some kind of Plakun!

Ivan - tea, Fireweed or, less commonly, Koporye tea, are usually limited to just these names. The plant is very famous and revered in Rus', certainly useful and in our time experiencing a rebirth, since every year its popularity among the population is only growing. And this is what Fireweed looks like in nature. A very beautiful plant that you can’t take your eyes off.

Ivan – tea – plant photo

People ask for it in pharmacies and order it online. Not so long ago, it became possible to purchase even fermented Ivan - tea that can be brewed in the traditional way, like regular tea. At the same time, its medicinal properties are not lost anywhere, and when brewed, they remain completely in the drink.

Medicinal properties of Ivan tea and its area of ​​application in folk medicine

People have guessed about the healing power of this plant a very long time ago and have been successfully using it to this day. The amazing popularity of Fireweed is explained by the fact that the composition of this plant is the whole periodic table. There’s everything there, from potassium and calcium to bioflavonoids and tannins!

Let's see what the medicinal properties of Ivan tea are, in what cases it should be used, and in what cases it is better to abstain, since it has contraindications.

So, Ivan - tea is used for:

• gastrointestinal diseases such as ulcers, gastritis, colitis and enterocolitis
• impaired intestinal motility
• flatulence
• impaired metabolism
• diseases of the oral cavity, such as periodontal disease, caries, poor condition of the oral mucosa
• broncho-pulmonary diseases
• diseases of the genitourinary system, both in men and women (for example cystitis)
• prostate adenoma, prostatitis and poor potency in men
• for migraines and headaches
• with a general loss of strength
• for a variety of diseases of the nervous system or if you just need to relieve stress and irritability
• to relieve symptoms of epileptic diseases
• for mental disorders, neuroses and depression
• for anemia
• for respiratory diseases
• to strengthen the immune system
• for the prevention of cancer

Ivan – tea has long been considered one of the best natural remedies that calm the human nervous system and increase tone. A characteristic feature of fireweed is that it does not cause any addiction, no matter how long you use it.

Ivan - tea - contraindications

Ivan tea has very few contraindications. These include:

1. Individual intolerance
2. Pregnancy (although many do not consider this a contraindication)
3. Intestinal disorder
4. Hypotension (low blood pressure)

Side effects when consuming fireweed may include mild disruption of the intestines, as this plant has some laxative effect. There is no need to be afraid of this, this is normal. Over time, your intestines will adjust and begin to function as before.

What else can be considered contraindications? It is not advisable to take Ivan tea at the same time as taking any sedatives, as this plant itself has strong sedative properties. Or at least consult your doctor about this.

The same applies to the use of Ivan tea simultaneously with antipyretic drugs.

Use of Ivan tea for medicinal purposes

Stomach diseases, insomnia and constant headaches

For diseases such as ulcers, gastritis, colitis, enterocolitis, frequent headaches and insomnia, Ivan tea is recommended to be used according to the following recipe:

• 1 tbsp. Pour a glass of boiling water over a spoonful of dry crushed herb Ivan tea.
• Leave for 2 hours, then strain.
• Take 1 tablespoon 3-4 times a day before meals

Sore throat, sore throat

• 1 tablespoon of Ivan tea per glass of boiling water, infused in a thermos for 2 hours, after which you need to cool and gargle with a slightly warm broth several times a day.

Anemia, acute respiratory infections

• 1 tbsp. pour a spoonful of dry crushed fireweed leaves into a glass of boiling water, simmer over low heat for 15 minutes, then leave and strain.
• For anemia and acute respiratory infections, take 1 tablespoon 4 times a day before meals.

Diseases of the genitourinary system in men and women

For diseases of the genitourinary system, cystitis, Ivan tea is used according to the following recipe:

• 1 teaspoon of crushed fireweed leaves is poured into a glass of boiling water, infused for 2 hours, then filtered.
• For diseases of the genitourinary system, drink 1/3 glass 3 times a day, always before meals.

In other cases, when brewing fermented Ivan tea, you can adhere to the generally accepted classic recipe:

• Take a 0.5 liter teapot, place 2 teaspoons of Ivan tea in it and pour boiling water over it.
• After 10 minutes, when the drink has infused, you can start drinking tea.
• To do this, pour the required amount of tea from a teapot and dilute it with boiling water to taste.

Important! The consumption rate of Fireweed per 1 adult per day should not exceed 2 tbsp. spoons!

Where to buy Ivan tea

Where can you buy quality Ivan tea? The usual collection in the form of dry leaves can be bought at a pharmacy or ordered online. But good and high-quality fermented Ivan tea is more difficult to find.

I have placed orders in this store more than a dozen times and I am not ashamed to recommend it to my readers.

There are 2 offers of fermented Ivan tea available in Altaivita. The first option is one 100 gram pack. Costs 390 rubles.

The second option is to purchase a whole set of fermented tea in the amount of 6 packs with a 20% discount. You can buy real fermented Ivan tea as always by following the yellow banners.

Are you buying Ivan tea for the first time?

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All the beneficial properties of Ivan tea

And finally, let me remind you of all the beneficial properties that Fireweed has.

• Contains many vitamins, microelements and nutrients
• Helps normalize metabolism
• It has antiphlogistic and antiseptic properties, as a result of which it is effective in inflammatory diseases and the treatment of various infections
• A very effective remedy for diseases of the genitourinary system in both men and women
• An excellent diuretic that lowers blood pressure Ivan - tea reduces nervousness, normalizes sleep and improves a person’s psycho-emotional background
• Kills viruses and strengthens the immune system
• With prolonged use, it cleanses the body of toxins and waste.
• Drinking Ivan tea has an excellent effect on the condition of the skin. It becomes elastic and elastic
• It has been proven that the use of Fireweed can be an excellent prevention of cancer, since the hangrol and other antioxidants it contains - carotenoids, flavonoids, tannins - have a negative effect on cancer cells, in other words, they kill them
• Fireweed has a positive effect on the functioning of the human endocrine system

You can get a more complete picture of the chemical composition of Ivan tea by studying several of these tables.

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Content of essential oils in Ivan tea in percentage