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Cultural & educational only. Cerasee tea is shared here as a traditional Jamaican bush tea and part of cultural heritage. It is not medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition. Cerasee is very potent and is not recommended during pregnancy; if you are pregnant, on medication, or have a health condition, talk to a healthcare professional first. Full disclaimer →
Cerasee (also spelled cerassee or "asosi") grows wild across Jamaica, its slender vine and small yellow flowers climbing over fences. Brewed into a tea, it's intensely bitter — Jamaicans often say "the more bitter, the better." It's traditionally taken now and then rather than daily. Here's how it's brewed at home.
Ingredients
- 1 small handful fresh cerasee vine (or 1 tbsp dried)
- 3 cups water
- Honey or lime to taste (optional)
Method
- Rinse the fresh cerasee vine thoroughly to remove any dirt.
- Bring the water to a boil in a small pot. Add the cerasee, lower the heat, and let it simmer 5–10 minutes — the longer it steeps, the darker and more bitter it gets.
- Strain into a cup. The brew is a greenish-gold and, be warned, seriously bitter.
- A little honey or a squeeze of lime softens the edge if you like. Sip it warm, in small amounts.
🌿 A little goes a long way
Cerasee is one of the strongest bush teas there is. Traditionally it's taken occasionally and in modest amounts — not as an everyday drink. Start with a weak, short brew if it's your first time.