Northlands Tea Plant

One of the few plants to survive in the wastes of the Northern Lands is a particular tea plant. It is native only to the Northern Lands and produces a dark, rich brew that most Northlanders drink on a daily basis. It is perhaps the only plant to really thrive in the terrain and it is carefully cultivated by natural means to ensure there is enough supply for the demand of an entire nation.

The tea leaves from this plant are perhaps the only true export the Northlanders take part in, trading it to other kingdoms (particularly Novami) in exchange for meats and produce that they are unable to obtain otherwise. The people of Novami happily trade with the Northlanders for this tea, having also been daily drinkers of it before their exile.

When the plant's leaves grow to around six inches in length, it is picked and the leaves are rolled up and crushed, then left out to dry. It takes a week to dry the leaves for consumption, after which they are packaged and sent to shops. The fresh leaves can also be used for brewing, but are most often used for tinctures, as the fresh leaves have soothing properties when crushed after they are picked.

For the preparation of tea:

First obtain the plant from its natural environment. Strip bare the stem (see Tinctures and Remedies for stem and root uses) and set aside the leaves on a rack. Roll each leaf at the widest part, as tightly as it will go without squeezing out the juice. Set in the sun to dry for one week.

When the leaves are dry, take a small spoonful and crush into a strainer. Fill cup with freshly boiled water and set the strainer inside to wet the leaves. Allow to brew until the water is nearly black, then remove the leaves. Set these aside for use in poultices.

Once brewed, stir in preference of either lemon, or milk and sugar to taste.

— Northlander cookbook