Osmanthus

Identity

Common Name

Osmanthus

Scientific Name

Osmanthus fragrans

Botanical Family

Oleaceae

Native Region

East Asia (China)

Cultivation Regions

China, Japan, Taiwan

Plant Parts Used

Flowers

Synonyms

Gui Hua, Sweet Osmanthus, Fragrant Olive

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

An evergreen shrub or small tree with leathery oval finely toothed dark green leaves and clusters of tiny intensely fragrant apricot-orange four-petalled flowers; the flowers are infused for tea and scent.

Historical Background

Osmanthus (gui hua, 'sweet osmanthus') has perfumed Chinese gardens and tea for over 2,000 years, its apricot-sweet blossoms prized by Tang poets and emperors. Brewed alone or with green or oolong tea, osmanthus tea is a fragrant celebration of autumn in Chinese culture.

Earliest recorded uses: Used in Chinese tea and cuisine for over 2,500 years; a prized flavoring for wine and tea since the Tang dynasty.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Apricot, floral, sweet, buttery

Tea Information

Research Summary

Osmanthus has a long tradition as a fragrant, calming tea and flavoring. Preclinical work shows antioxidant and mild anti-inflammatory activity, but clinical evidence is limited and it is not a treatment for any disease.

Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources