Long before tea became popular in Asia or Europe, the civilizations of what is now Mexico were already brewing herbs, flowers, and cacao- not just to drink, but to heal, energize, and connect with the divine. The Aztec and Maya civilizations created herbal infusions that nurtured both body and spirit, centuries before modern wellness trends existed.

Aztec Herbal Teas (1300s–1500s)

The Aztec Empire, flourishing in the Valley of Mexico from the 14th to early 16th centuries, believed that every plant held a gift from the gods. Herbs, flowers, and seeds were used to energize warriors, soothe ailments, and honor sacred ceremonies.

• Cacao: Considered the “food of the gods,” cacao was often mixed with herbs, flowers, or spices. It became a rich, nourishing drink that fueled both body and ritual.
• Xochitl flowers: Marigold, rose, and other blossoms were steeped to calm the mind, aid digestion, and honor the divine.
• Tzoalli: A corn-based herbal infusion blended with medicinal plants, nourishing the body and connecting drinkers to the spiritual world.

Imagine standing in the bustling markets of Tenochtitlan, the aroma of cacao and flowers mingling with the hum of daily life- each sip a small act of devotion and care.

Maya Herbal Teas (250–900 CE Classic Period, 900–1500 CE Postclassic)

Farther south, the Maya civilization was crafting its own herbal traditions as early as 250 CE. Herbal teas blended health, ceremony, and connection with nature, supporting both the body and the spirit.

• Cacao: Central to ceremonies and daily life, cacao was mixed with herbs or spices for energy, wellness, and spiritual focus.
• Chaya leaves: Known as “tree spinach,” chaya was brewed for nutrition, digestive support, and vitality.
• Vanilla and allspice: Added for flavor and subtle medicinal benefits, turning every cup into a multisensory experience.

Picture sitting with a Maya healer, inhaling the rich aroma of cacao and spices as stories of the gods and ancestors are shared- every sip a bridge between the physical and spiritual worlds.

Why These Teas Still Matter

The Aztec and Maya civilizations remind us that wellness has always been sacred. Every cup of herbal tea is more than flavor- it’s a connection to centuries of wisdom, a moment to pause, and a way to honor nature and tradition.

Next time you brew cacao, chaya, or marigold, take a moment to imagine the hands that picked those leaves hundreds of years ago. You’re not just drinking tea- you’re drinking history, healing, and heart.

Be well and don’t forget to self-care,

Lili