Cover image via 
Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp for the latest stories and breaking news.
Most of us know bougainvillea as that splash of pink, purple, or orange climbing up fences in every Malaysian neighbourhood
It's one of those things that just feels Malaysian.
But did you know that those paper-thin petals aren't just for show? You can actually brew them into tea.
Yes, tea!
While social media makes it sound like the latest trend, people have been drinking bougainvillea tea for generations in parts of Asia and South America
Traditionally, the petals are dried and steeped to help with coughs, sore throats, and mild inflammation.
However, according to Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), local research is still in the early stages of confirming these health benefits.
Some locals even mix it with madu kelulut or halia for an extra soothing effect when the weather turns unpredictable (aka when your aircond is fighting the haze).
If you've got a bougainvillea bush by your fence, congratulations, you've got yourself a free tea garden
Just make sure the flowers haven't been sprayed with pesticides.
Nobody wants their detox drink turning into a chemical cocktail.
Here's a simple guide:
1. Pluck a handful of colourful petals (pink, purple, or orange all work).
2. Rinse and let them air-dry.
3. Boil a cup of water and steep the petals for 5 to 10 minutes until the liquid turns a soft pink.
4. Add a dash of honey or a squeeze of lemon for flavour.
The result is a gentle floral brew that's surprisingly calming. Kinda like hibiscus meets rose, but lighter.
It's perfect for winding down after a long day.
