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A Native Energy Boost

Yaupon (yo-pawn) is a Holly plant native to the southeastern United States. Its long history of usage stretches back into antiquity, falling in and out of favor among the European settlers, and largely forgotten about for over 100 years. In its recent return to the public awareness, the American Yaupon Association (AYA) was founded in 2018 to establish standards, safety systems, and more for this rebounding industry.

Alternately known as Cassina, Carolina Tea, Liberty Tea– Yaupon Holly is rich in flavonoids, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds. It contains high levels of theobromine which is an alkaloid that gives cacao its mild bitterness and serves as a gentle stimulant, working in conjunction with caffeine to provide mental alertness without the jitters.

Yaupon is a close relative to Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis) and Guayusa (Ilex guayusa), both of which have retained consistent usage in their respective regions. Perhaps the most notable difference between Yaupon and tea/coffee is the lack of bitterness caused by tannins. If you’ve ever over-steeped a cup of black tea, you’ll know the taste of tannins.

For some years, Yaupon rivalled the popularity of teas from China and India in early America. During the Civil War it was favored among southern troops as their coffee and tea supplies were cut. Sadly, it fell out of favor as imported coffee and tea became the preferred way for Americans to get their caffeine.

The history of Yaupon is fascinating. The Native usage of this tea is shrouded in mystery and relegated to archaeological studies.