Aquilaria malaccensis is widely known for agarwood, but its leaves are also valuable for producing herbal tea. Aquilaria leaf tea is rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and has been traditionally used for wellness and relaxation.
Health Benefits of Aquilaria Leaf Tea
- Rich in flavonoids and polyphenols
- Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
- Supports digestion and relaxation
- May help in blood sugar regulation
Cultivation and Leaf Management
- Best Practices
- Use non-inoculated or young trees for tea production to ensure leaf purity
- Plant in well-drained, slightly acidic soils
- Prune lightly to encourage fresh leaf growth
- Avoid
- Harvesting leaves from chemically inoculated trees
- Collecting damaged or yellowing leaves
- Using leaves exposed to pesticides or foliar sprays
- Harvesting Guidelines
- Harvest mature but still tender leaves (not too fibrous)
- Prefer leaves from upper mid-canopy where sunlight encourages higher nutrient content
- Best harvest time: Morning, after dew has evaporated
Post-Harvest Processing
- Washing
- Gently rinse with clean, potable water
- Use a colander or strainer to avoid bruising the leaves
- Drying
- Shade-dry in a well-ventilated area
- Avoid direct sunlight to preserve color and phytochemicals
- Dry until leaves are crispy and moisture-free (3–5 days)
- Cutting and Storage
- Optionally crush or shred dried leaves for easy brewing
- Store in airtight containers away from light and moisture
Warning: Impact of Inoculation on Tea Leaves
If a tree has been inoculated for agarwood using chemical or biological agents, it is NOT recommended to use its leaves for tea. Risks include:
- Residue of chemicals (e.g., NaCl, FeCl₃, salicylic acid)
- Leaf stress symptoms (yellowing, necrosis)
- Altered taste and safety concerns
Brewing Guide
- Use 1–2 grams of dried leaves per cup
- Steep in hot water (80–90°C) for 5–7 minutes
- Add honey or lemon to taste (optional)
Market Potential
- Aquilaria leaf tea is a high-value niche product
- Appeals to health-conscious consumers and tea connoisseurs
- Potential for branding, packaging, and export
Sustainability Tip
Intercrop Aquilaria with nitrogen-fixing trees like Gliricidia, Calliandra, or Pterocarpus indicus to boost soil fertility and reduce synthetic fertilizer use.