Across Ghana, bougainvillea flowers are admired for their vibrant hues and their ability to flourish in hot, dry climates. Seen climbing fences, spilling over garden walls, and lining roadways, these brilliant blossoms are often planted for their ornamental beauty. But what many don’t realise is that bougainvillea is more than a decorative plant—it also has significant value as a herbal tea, with a growing reputation for its wellness benefits in parts of Asia and South America.
Bougainvillea glabra and Bougainvillea spectabilis are the two most common varieties used medicinally. In countries like Mexico, India, and the Philippines, bougainvillea tea is traditionally brewed to treat a variety of ailments, including coughs, sore throats, and digestive issues. The flowers are rich in flavonoids—natural antioxidants that help combat inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. In some traditions, the leaves are also used, although the flowers are favoured for their milder flavour and gentler therapeutic effect.
In Ghana, while bougainvillea is widely grown, its use in herbal medicine—especially as a tea—remains largely underexplored. Herbalists and wellness practitioners are only beginning to revisit its potential as a local remedy. Anecdotal reports and small-scale uses suggest that bougainvillea tea may help manage respiratory symptoms, especially in the harmattan season when dust and dry air exacerbate coughs and throat irritation.
Brewing bougainvillea tea is simple: dried or fresh petals are steeped in hot water for about 10–15 minutes. The resulting tea has a light, floral flavour and can be enjoyed plain or sweetened with honey or with lemon for a tangy taste. Some herbalists recommend combining bougainvillea with ginger or lemongrass for added benefits, particularly where treating respiratory conditions.
As Ghana’s herbal wellness industry continues to grow, interest in local and sustainable ingredients is on the rise. Bougainvillea, often overlooked, has the potential to join the ranks of other indigenous plants being reclaimed for their health properties. For a country abundant in biodiversity, embracing lesser-known botanicals like bougainvillea could open new doors for both personal wellness and economic opportunity.
As with all herbal teas, it is important to consult a qualified herbalist or healthcare provider before using bougainvillea for medicinal purposes, particularly for pregnant women or those on medication. Still, this common yet powerful plant may just be Ghana’s next herbal treasure waiting to be rediscovered—one cup at a time.
