Tea additive Gui Hua (Osmanthus)

Gui Hua (桂花), or osmanthus, is a dried flower from one of China’s most fragrant plants. In tea culture, Gui Hua is prized for its delicate, sweet aroma of peach, apricot, and honey, beautifully complementing white, green, and oolong teas.

Adding osmanthus to tea brings a light floral-fruity fragrance and a gentle, sweet aftertaste that makes the drink exceptionally refined. Gui Hua is also valued for its wellness benefits and uplifting effect on mood.

Health Benefits of Osmanthus:

• Enhances mood and calms the nervous system
• Aids digestion and soothes mild stomach discomfort
• Freshens breath and has natural antibacterial properties
• Relaxes the body without raising blood pressure

Characteristics:

• Type: Natural floral tea additive
• Form: Dried osmanthus flowers
• Origin: China, Guangxi province
• Aroma: Floral-fruity, with peach and honey notes
• Taste: Light, gently sweet, smooth

How to Brew Gui Hua:

1. Add half a teaspoon of flowers to your base tea or brew on its own
2. Water temperature: 80–85°C
3. Steep for 3–5 minutes
4. Can be re-steeped several times with the tea

Best Pairings:

• White tea (Bai Hao Yin Zhen, Bai Mu Dan)
• Green tea (especially fresh spring harvests)
• Light oolongs (Tie Guan Yin, Alishan)
• Yellow teas