Jamaican Cerasse Tea, also called Jamaican Bush Tea, is an herbal tea considered to be a blood purifier and a way to control sugar for people with diabetes. Other Jamaicans use the tea as a way to prevent colds, stomach and other gastrointestinal illnesses. But mainly it is used to clean the blood of impurities.
Like many other plants in Jamaica, cerasse was introduced to the island by slaves from West Africa. Of all the home remedies that Jamaicans use, it is not popular because it’s traditionally too bitter. Molasses, sugar, cream, and other sweeteners are used in an attempt to counter the offensive taste of the tea.
Jamaican Cerasse Tea use has fallen among the youth, but a substantial number of Jamaicans continue to drink it. For some it is considered to be consumed with Jamaican Ackee and Saltfish – the other “unofficial” dish of Jamaica.
The strong bitterness of the tea is the reason most young Jamaicans don’t drink. And those outside of Jamaiaca have so many options to them, avoiding a bitter tea isn’t hard. The problem is there aren’t too many other foods or drinks with blood cleaning properties.
It is unlikely that Cerasse Tea will disappear from the Jamaican culture any time soon. Jamaican Bush Tea, implanted into the hearts and psyche of the majority as the leading home remedy, will hold a strong place in Jamaica for years to come.
Alternative Blood Cleaners
Antioxidants, especially resveratrol and OPC’s, are alternatives to cerasse tea. Since antioxidants serve to stop free radical damage, they indirectly cause cellular repair. A consistent diet of antioxidants allows the body to heal itself thus renew its ability to excrete waste from cells, skin and the body.
Antioxidants like resveratrol are great blood cleaners.
Author: Dan R Morris