Kinkeliba Leaves (Kenkeliba) – Dried West African Bush Tea

Kinkeliba, also spelled kenkeliba or kinkéliba, is West Africa's everyday bush tea. These dried leaves of Combretum micranthum come from Côte d'Ivoire. Simmer a handful in water for a reddish-brown, earthy, naturally caffeine-free tea, the way it is brewed at breakfast in Senegal and at iftar during Ramadan.

Key features

• 100% dried kinkeliba leaves (Combretum micranthum), nothing added
• From Côte d'Ivoire
• Naturally caffeine free
• Leaves can be re-boiled up to 3 times
• Two sizes: a small bag to try and a large bag for daily tea

How to brew kinkeliba tea

1. Bring about 1 liter (4 cups) of water to a boil.
2. Add a small handful of leaves and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes.
3. Strain. Drink it plain, or with sugar or honey, a slice of lemon or a few mint leaves.
4. Keep the leaves. Traditionally they are boiled again up to 3 times.

Want to know more? Read our guide: Kinkeliba Tea: How to Brew It & Why West Africa Drinks It.

Product details

• Product: dried kinkeliba (kenkeliba) leaves
• Botanical name: Combretum micranthum
• Also known as: kenkeliba, kinkéliba, quinqueliba, bush tea
• Origin: Côte d'Ivoire
• Sizes: small bag or large bag
• Storage: keep closed in a cool, dry place
• Pickup at 1651 E 87th St, Chicago, local delivery, or shipping anywhere in the U.S.

Frequently asked questions

What is kinkeliba?
Kinkeliba (Combretum micranthum) is a shrub from the West African savanna. Its dried leaves make a popular herbal tea, often called bush tea.

Is kinkeliba the same as kenkeliba?
Yes. Kinkeliba, kenkeliba, kinkéliba and quinqueliba are different spellings of the same plant.

Does kinkeliba tea have caffeine?
No, kinkeliba is naturally caffeine free.

What does kinkeliba tea taste like?
Earthy and woody, slightly bitter, a bit like a strong green tea. Many people sweeten it lightly or add lemon and mint.

How do you make kinkeliba tea?
Simmer a small handful of leaves in about 1 liter of water for 5 to 10 minutes, then strain. The same leaves can be re-boiled up to 3 times.

If you are pregnant, nursing or take prescription medicine, check with your doctor before drinking herbal teas.