Sassafras Tea – A Sip of Appalachian Tradition
If you ever spent a chilly morning in the Appalachian hills, there’s a good chance you’ve sipped a cup of sassafras tea—that earthy, reddish brew made from the roots of the sassafras tree. It’s a drink with deep roots (literally and culturally), passed down through generations of mountain families as both comfort and cure.
For many, sassafras tea wasn’t just a hot beverage—it was a springtime ritual. A “blood thinner,” a post-winter pick-me-up, or simply something warm and woodsy to sip on the porch. These days, it’s a nostalgic taste of nature, brewed slow and sipped even slower.
Let’s explore how to make it the traditional way and what makes this tea so special.
What is Sassafras Tea?
Sassafras tea is an herbal infusion made by simmering the roots or bark of the sassafras tree. Known for its spicy-sweet, slightly citrusy flavor and vibrant reddish-brown color, it was once a staple in Appalachian households.
The tree itself—recognizable by its mitten-shaped leaves—grows wild across the eastern U.S. and has long been valued in folk medicine for its warming properties and signature aroma.
Historically, folks brewed the tea for its supposed health benefits, including “purifying the blood,” easing congestion, or just shaking off a heavy winter diet. While those beliefs aren’t backed by science, they reflect the deep connection between early settlers and the land.
Ingredients & Supplies
- Fresh or dried sassafras root or bark (about 2–3 medium sticks)
- 4–6 cups of water
- Optional: sweetener (honey or maple syrup)
- Optional: a slice of orange peel or cinnamon stick for extra warmth
How to Make Sassafras Tea
- Harvest or Source the Sassafras: If foraging, harvest in early spring or late fall. Wash the root thoroughly and peel off the bark.
- Boil the Bark: In a saucepan, add 4–6 cups of water and the sassafras. Bring to a rolling boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and let it simmer gently for 15–20 minutes. You’ll notice the water change to a deep reddish-brown and the aroma become woodsy and sweet.
- Strain and Serve: Strain out the bark and pour into mugs. Sweeten if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Citrus Twist: Add a thin slice of orange peel or lemon zest while it simmers.
- Spiced Up: Simmer with a cinnamon stick or clove for a spicier aroma.
- Serve Cold: Let it cool and pour over ice for a refreshing iced tea variation.
- Don’t Overdo It: Sassafras contains safrole—avoid large quantities or daily use. Commercial sassafras teas are often safrole-free.
A Note on Safety
In the 1960s, studies showed high doses of safrole (a natural oil in sassafras) could be harmful. You can read more about this on the NIH’s PubChem page for Safrole. As a result, the FDA banned safrole as a food additive. That said, occasional home-brewed sassafras tea is still enjoyed by many, especially using safrole-free bark from reputable sources. You can read more about this in the FDA’s official statement on safrole and sassafras. As a result, the FDA banned safrole as a food additive. That said, occasional home-brewed sassafras tea is still enjoyed by many, especially using safrole-free bark from reputable sources.
If you’re concerned, look for pre-processed, safrole-free sassafras sold by herbal suppliers—or simply enjoy in moderation.
Let’s Wrap It Up
Sassafras tea is more than just a drink—it’s a tradition steeped in history, resilience, and Appalachian spirit. Whether you’re brewing a pot to reconnect with your roots or trying it for the first time, it’s a beautiful way to slow down and sip the past.
Have you made sassafras tea before? Or maybe you’ve got your own family remedy passed down through generations? Share your story below—I’d love to hear how you brew it!
Sassafras Tea
Ingredients
- - 2–3 sticks fresh or dried sassafras root or bark
- - 4–6 cups water
- - Optional: honey or maple syrup
- - Optional: cinnamon stick or citrus peel
Instructions
- Rinse and peel fresh sassafras bark if foraged.
- Add bark and water to pot, bring to boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Strain and pour into mugs. Sweeten if desired.
Notes
- Look for safrole-free versions from trusted suppliers.
- Delicious hot or iced.
