Minthostachys Setosa - Herb

Brew & Taste

Minthostachys setosa infusion is delicious, mellow, and cooling. It's a light greenish-yellow color and has a refreshing aroma. You can flavor it with lemon juice and enjoy it either hot or cold. It's often recommended in combination with another one of the Peruvian natural treasures – Vilcacora.

Origins

Minthostachys setosa is one of the aromatic mountain herbs that established their reputation long before they came to Europe. In the traditional Andean environment, it's considered a plant of extraordinary importance not only as part of everyday life, but also as a protective element in agriculture. Its strong aroma naturally repels pests, which is why locals plant it near their fields, especially around potato crops.

The natural habitat of this herb is the high-altitude regions of South America. It's most commonly found at elevations between 2,700 and 3,400 meters, in the harsh climatic conditions – specifically, significant temperature differences between day and night, searing sunlight, and nutrient-poor soil. These precise factors give the plant its characteristic strength and aromatic qualities. Minthostachys setosa grows in the Andes, stretching from Venezuela through Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia to the northern regions of Argentina. However, its distribution is rather localized, making it a valuable and relatively rare raw material.

At first glance, it may resemble an oregano or mint plant. It grows up to two meters tall, has a stem with fine hairs and small, oval leaves. The content of the latter is responsible for the plant’s characteristic menthol scent. For further processing, the above-ground part of the plant is harvested and gently dried to preserve as many active ingredients as possible.

Another interesting fact is the wide range of folk names that Minthostachys setosa has been given – in Ecuador, it's known as Tipo or Poleo, in Peru as Chancua, in Bolivia as Muna, and in Argentina as Peperina. But no matter what you call it, it'll always be a plant that holds a firm place in both traditional Andean culture and modern phytotherapy. We're just rediscovering its importance for modern society. Scientists and growers are seeking ways to protect it in its natural habitat while also enabling its sustainable cultivation to the meet growing global demand.

Minthostachys setosa is valued not only for its aroma but also for its content of bioactive compounds, which include, in particular:

• essential oils (e.g., pulegone, menthone, limonene),
• flavonoids,
• phenolic compounds,
• tannins,
• terpenes. 

Tea packaging preview

We pack our teas in a strong, zip-lock aluminum packet which allows you to easily re-seal its contents. This container protects the quality of the tea against humidity, light or foreign odors, all of which could noticeably affect the quality of the brew.