Traditional Mexican Tea: Types, Benefits & How to Brew

Walk into any Mexican kitchen, and you'll probably find a pot of something steeping on the stove — not coffee, not soda, but a traditional Mexican tea made from herbs, flowers, or spices that have been passed down for generations. Herbal remedies have been part of daily life in Mexican households for centuries, long before "wellness drinks" became a marketing trend, and many of these same herbs are still reached for today for everything from an upset stomach to a restless night.

This guide breaks down the most popular kinds of Mexican herbal tea, what they're 

traditionally used for, and exactly how to brew them at home — the way abuelas have been doing it for decades.

What Is Traditional Mexican Tea?

Mexican tea is not just one tea, but many — herbal teas prepared from native plants, dried flowers, roots, and spices. Most of the Mexican teas are naturally caffeine-free as they're not made from the Camellia sinensis plant – unlike the black and green teas.

Usually the name of these teas is preceded by "té" in Spanish and followed by the name of the herb — this is how "té de manzanilla (chamomile) " gets its name. They all have their own respective significance in Mexican culture: some are common drinks, others are called for specifically when a person in the home is not feeling well.

Popular Types of Mexican Herbal Tea

1. Chamomile Tea (Té de Manzanilla)

Chamomile is perhaps one of the most popular Mexican medicinal herbs and for a good reason. It's a popular remedy for stomach upset or relaxation before sleep and is a common form of treatment for a colicky baby in Mexico. Chamomile is generally safe in the amounts used in a typical cup of tea, and some studies have investigated its use for relaxation, but there's limited research on chamomile's effects on sleep.

A small tin or jar of dried manzanilla flowers is kept in the kitchen cabinet all year round, not only to treat the sick, but brewed on any average evening after dinner to help unwind. Often the first tea a child is introduced to is usually weak and slightly sweetened.

Looking to try it yourself? Browse MexMax's Mexican Tea Collection for authentic chamomile options.

2. Hibiscus Tea (Jamaica Tea)

If you've ever had agua de jamaica at a taquería, you already know this one. Made from dried hibiscus flowers, jamaica tea has a tart, cranberry-like flavor and a deep ruby color. It's typically served cold and sweetened, though the hot version is just as common in traditional households. Hibiscus is one of the more researched herbal teas — the NCCIH notes that some studies suggest it may modestly support blood pressure levels already within a healthy range, though it's not a substitute for medical treatment.

Explore our Hibiscus Tea Products for restaurant- and household-quality jamaica.

Jamaica is made in large quantities in many Mexican homes, and chilled overnight, served with meals or gatherings of the family. Dried flowers of hibiscus can be stored in a closed container such as a bag or jar, and many households have their flowers stored in the pantry for the whole year.

3. Lemongrass Tea (Té de Limón)

Although it doesn't actually contain lemons, the tea is a bright, citrusy tea and one of the more refreshing in the Mexican herbal tea family. It derives its name from its lemon-like fragrance from natural oils found in the plant rather than any citrus fruit.

It is a common remedy for stomach cramps and is also generally the initial thing that is provided when a person complains of severe indigestion, headache, or simply a general feeling of sickness. Lemongrass is easy to grow and is a good way to use a few fresh stalks; that's why many Mexican families grow it in their backyards and/or on the patio. If fresh stalks are available, they're bruised or slightly mashed before steeping to release even more of the aroma, and also dried lemongrass will do the job, but the fresh version is definitely a more vibrant and aromatic cup.

Lemongrass tea is generally consumed as an unscented tea, but a few households add a little mint to it because it is a very cooling tea and can complement spicy foods. It's also not uncommon to see it served slightly warm and not hot, as there's a lot of the aroma that can be found in it.

4. Arnica Tea

Arnica is more of a targeted tea; more of a remedy for muscle soreness and minor bruising. Arnica is a fine illustration of how tea in Mexico is used as medicine before a beverage; no one drinks arnica as a beverage.

Extra caution should be taken with this one. Most products containing arnica are made to be applied topically (as a cream, gel, or wash) and some preparations for occasional internal use in small amounts. Since the forms are not interchangeable, it is advisable to always use instructions as specified on the product label and never use any product that is stored on the shelf as a tea without the knowledge and consent of a pharmacist or doctor.

5. Anise Tea (Té de Anís)

Anise tea has a unique licorice-like taste and was traditionally consumed after meals to aid in reducing bloating and gas. It is also frequently used for babies and young children (in very diluted form) for colic and is widely trusted for use within Mexican households.

6. Cinnamon Tea (Té de Canela)

This is a simple tea that is a comfort to drink. It is used as the base for many of the Mexican soft drinks and is normally taken as a winter drink mixed with piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar).

7. Mint Tea (Té de Hierbabuena)

Mint tea is a common home remedy offered after meals, to guests, and for stomachaches and headache among the Mexican homes. It's a drink that's popular all year round thanks to its cooling effect.

Mexican Herbal Tea at a Glance

Quick Facts: Typical Unsweetened Herbal Tea

(Note: values apply to plain brewed tea without added sugar, honey, or piloncillo. Sweetened versions like traditional agua de jamaica will naturally contain sugar and calories.)

Benefits of Mexican Herbal Tea

Each of the individual herbs found in Mexican Tea has its own unique properties but also has many common traits. These are the properties that define the traditional teas of Mexican culture.

• Digestive support – Mint, lemongrass, and anise are all traditionally used after meals to ease bloating and discomfort.

• Relaxation Herbs – One of the most commonly consumed herbs for relaxation in Mexican herbal teas is chamomile, considered safe when made as a tea.

• Hydration – Most of the herbs found in Mexican teas are caffeine-free, so people can enjoy a cup or two in the evening as a relaxing and healthy alternative to coffee.

• Antioxidant compounds – Some herbs, such as hibiscus, have been studied for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds. However, research in this area is still ongoing, and traditional uses should not replace professional medical advice.

• A cultural connection – To many, the act of making these teas is a way of connecting with their family and continuing a tradition that they were taught by their parents and grandparents.

Many of the herbs have long histories of use as remedies for various health problems. However, they are not to be used as an alternative for medical treatment for specific health conditions, and people on medication must use these teas with caution and only under the supervision of a health care professional. As with any new health supplement, always check with your doctor or naturopath before using these teas as a regular supplement.

Is Mexican Tea Caffeine Free?

The many teas that are commonly consumed in Mexico are typically caffeine-free and can be enjoyed at night or given to children in small quantities. Most of these teas are considered to be herbal teas and include: chamomile, hibiscus, mint, cinnamon tea, anise tea, and lemongrass tea. They are very different from the traditional black tea or green tea that are made with tea leaves and contain caffeine. Authentic Mexican coffee or café de olla is a totally different category of traditional Mexican drinks and does contain caffeine.

How Do You Brew Mexican Tea?

The good news: brewing traditional Mexican tea doesn't require special equipment. Here's the basic method most households use:

1. Boil water – About 2 cups per serving.

2. Add your herb – A small handful of dried flowers or leaves (roughly 1–2 tablespoons), or a few fresh sprigs if you have them.

3. Simmer, don't boil hard – Let it sit on low heat for 5–10 minutes, depending on the herb. Hibiscus and cinnamon can handle a longer simmer; mint and chamomile do better with a shorter steep.

4. Strain – Pour through a fine mesh strainer into your cup or pitcher.

5. Sweeten if you like – Piloncillo, honey, or sugar are common additions, especially for hibiscus and cinnamon tea.

6. Serve hot or cold – Jamaica tea, in particular, is often chilled and served over ice.

A quick tip passed down in a lot of Mexican kitchens: never let delicate herbs like mint or chamomile boil directly — steeping them off the heat, in water that's just boiled, keeps the flavor from turning bitter.

What Is the Most Popular Tea in Mexico?

Hands down, jamaica (hibiscus) tea takes the top spot as one of the most widely consumed traditional Mexican drinks, especially in its cold, sweetened form as agua de jamaica — you can read more about this style of drink in our Agua Fresca guide. Chamomile and mint follow closely behind as the most common everyday Mexican beverages reached for at home, particularly after meals or before bed.

Where to Buy Authentic Mexican Tea

Not every Mexican herbal tea available is a quality tea, and it's important to know what to watch for before purchasing:

• Select reputable brands – Avoid generic and unlabeled blends since they have a shorter history in Mexican homes.

• Purchase sealed packaging – Dried herbs and flowers lose flavour and aroma rapidly after they've been removed from the sealed packaging, so sealed packaging ensures they remain as fresh as possible when you are ready to brew.

• Look for freshness –  Color and smell are good indicators – if the herbs are dull and there is no smell, they have been sitting too long.

• Wholesale vs. retail – If you are stocking a restaurant, taquería, or store, it will be less expensive to purchase wholesale; if you are using it for home, you may find the smaller retail packaging to be more appropriate.

• MexMax products are authentic – MexMax stocks traditional Mexican tea products from brands that are used in Mexican homes, both wholesale and retail.

Bringing Mexican Tea Traditions Into Your Kitchen

Mexican herbal tea has more than just taste; each herb has a purpose, some to calm tensions, others to alleviate stomach problems, and even more to comfort us in a cup of tea. These natural herbal teas are an old Mexican home tradition, from many years back. They are not recent health beverages dressed up by marketing.

Whether you're looking for chamomile, hibiscus, lemongrass, or other authentic Mexican herbal teas, choosing high-quality ingredients makes a real difference in flavor and freshness. MexMax offers a selection of traditional Mexican tea products from brands trusted in Mexican households for generations — so you can bring the same flavors to your own kitchen.

FAQs

What is traditional Mexican tea?

Traditional Mexican tea is a collection of herbal infusions made from herbs, flowers, roots, and spices commonly used in Mexican households. Popular varieties include chamomile, hibiscus (jamaica), mint, lemongrass, cinnamon, and anise.

Is traditional Mexican tea caffeine-free?

Yes. Most traditional Mexican herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free because they're made from herbs and flowers rather than tea leaves. Coffee-based drinks like café de olla are the main exception.

What is the most popular tea in Mexico?

Jamaica tea, made from dried hibiscus flowers, is one of the most popular traditional teas in Mexico. It's commonly served cold as agua de jamaica, while chamomile and mint are also everyday favorites.

What are the benefits of Mexican herbal tea?

Traditional Mexican herbal teas are commonly enjoyed to support relaxation, digestion, and caffeine-free hydration. Many herbs have a long history of traditional use, but they should complement, not replace, professional medical care.

How do you brew traditional Mexican tea?

To brew traditional Mexican tea, steep dried herbs or flowers in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes, strain, and serve. Delicate herbs like chamomile and mint are best steeped rather than boiled.

What herbs are commonly used in Mexican tea?

Traditional Mexican tea often includes chamomile, hibiscus, lemongrass, mint, cinnamon, anise, and arnica. Each herb has its own distinctive flavor and traditional use in Mexican culture.

Is hibiscus tea the same as agua de jamaica?

Yes. Agua de jamaica is a traditional Mexican drink made by brewing dried hibiscus flowers. It's usually sweetened and served cold, although it can also be enjoyed hot.

Where can I buy authentic Mexican tea?

Authentic Mexican tea is available from trusted Mexican grocery stores and online retailers like MexMax. Choose reputable brands and sealed packaging to ensure freshness and quality.