Biwa tea is a traditional Japanese herbal tea made from the leaves of the evergreen loquat tree – also known as Japanese Plum. This tea is made from the Boshu variety of Biwa tree native to the Minamiboso area of the Chiba Prefecture in Japan. The Boshu Biwa fruits were presented to the Japanese Imperial Family every year since 1909. The freshly picked leaves are prepared by being cut into strips in the traditional tanzaku-giri (短冊きり) style for optimal brewing. Biwa tea has been consumed in Japan for at least 1500 years as a mild & pleasant everyday beverage with numerous medicinal benefits, including healing skin conditions such as eczema. Suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Loose Leaf – Caffeine free – Gluten free – Wheat free – Preservatives free – Additives free – Synthetic Flavourings free Suggested use: Add 2 teaspoons per cup & always use freshly drawn and boiled water. Allow to brew for 5 to 10 minutes according to taste. Serve hot, cold or over ice. Avoid during pregnancy.