Weedy plant teas and infusions: Evaluated by freshman seminar students!

Our fall 2014 freshman seminar class on weedy plants taste-tested a variety of commercially-available herbal teas blends either composed partly or entirely of weedy species.

Here are the average ratings (1 [yuck!] to 4 [wow!]) and some anonymous comments on these wild infusions:

Rose Hip

Average Score: 2 out of 4

Comments:

"Very herbal, strong after-taste, somewhat dry,... Reminds me of oatmeal, for whatever reason..."

Honeysuckle Herbal
Average Score: 3 out of 4
Comments:
"Sweet, mild,... Don't let the fish-food look scare you! It is pretty good."
"Sweet, dark, fragrant,... My fish would like to try this."

Prickly Pear Cactus
Average Score: 3 out of 4
Comments:
"Mild... Makes me interested to see what the cactus itself tastes like..."
"Mildly fruity... Luckily not prickly!"

Chamomile

Average Score: 3.5 out of 4

Comments:

"Sweet, fragrant,... Can't go wrong with chamomile."

"Tastes herbal... I don't know how else to describe it."

Burdock Root
Average Score: 3.5 out of 4
Comments:
"Very deep, roasty, smooth, soothing,... Using 2 teabags in a single cup may have added to the depth."
"Smells wonderful... Taste is milder,  but still good!"

"Fredagsmys" (a Swedish green tea blend with carrot, strawberry, sunflower, and cornflower)
Average Score: 4 out of 4
Comments:
"Tastes like green tea... I like green tea."