Diplazium esculentum frond herbal tea

Abstract

A herbal tea blend consisting exclusively of processed fronds of Diplacium esculentum, where the fronds are harvested at a tender growth stage, washed, dried under controlled conditions and cut or ground to a defined particle size to optimize the infusion and retain the antioxidant components for a caffeine-free beverage.

Description

AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates to food and beverage compositions, in particular a caffeine-free herbal tea made exclusively from processed fronds of Diplazium esculentum (edible fern), optimized for taste, preservation of antioxidants, and shelf-stable preparation methods. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Diplacium fern (Phytos esculentum) is a widespread, edible wild fern with proven secondary plant compounds (phenols, flavonoids, steroidal saponins) and antioxidant activity in vitro. This supports its use as a functional botanical ingredient beyond traditional culinary applications. Studies report the free radical scavenging activity and related bioactivities of aqueous and alcoholic extracts of the fern, aligning with consumer interest in antioxidant, caffeine-free herbal teas made from underutilized plants. Processing techniques for herbal teas, such as gentle convection drying, freeze-drying, or microwave-assisted drying, affect polyphenol content and sensory quality, underscoring the need for controlled harvesting and drying protocols for high-quality fern teas. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The invention relates to an herbal tea composition consisting exclusively of Diplazium. The leaves of the Esculentum plant are harvested at a tender stage, washed, dried under controlled conditions, and finely ground or cut to optimize the infusion. This results in a flavorful, aromatic beverage rich in natural antioxidants when steeped with hot water. Standardizing the ripeness and drying of the leaves preserves polyphenols and volatile aromas. Simultaneously, a convenient, sustainable, and caffeine-free tea is produced from a previously underutilized plant resource. Product variants include tea bags with cut leaves or powder for quick infusion. Humidity control and packaging ensure quality during storage and transport. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0004] The selection of raw material focuses on young, tender leaves of *D. esculentum*, which are botanically identified and inspected for defects. Before drying, the leaves are washed to remove impurities and surface microbes. This complies with hygiene and quality standards for herbal tea processing. One of several validated drying methods is used: low-temperature hot air drying, microwave-assisted drying, or freeze-drying. The method is chosen based on the optimal balance between antioxidant retention and cost. According to the literature, freeze-drying generally preserves the highest polyphenol content, while careful oven drying at controlled time and temperature is an economical alternative with satisfactory polyphenol retention.After drying, the leaves are cut or ground to defined particle sizes to improve extraction kinetics without producing excessive fines that could impair filtration. The moisture content is adjusted to a stable level to prevent enzymatic degradation and flavor loss during storage. The finished tea is prepared by steeping it in hot water, resulting in a naturally flavored beverage. The antioxidant contribution is attributed to the phenols and flavonoids contained in the fern. Studies confirm the DPPH / ABTS / FRAP activity of extracts. However, claims regarding the final product should comply with applicable food regulations. Sustainable sourcing utilizes wild-grown or cultivated edible fern populations with responsible harvesting to protect regeneration.This product puts a previously underutilized plant in the spotlight and expands the herbal tea category with a unique sensory profile. Packaging options include oxygen- and moisture-proof bags or sachets to stabilize aroma and polyphenols. Labeling indicates caffeine-free status, botanical identity, and preparation instructions, and optionally offers QR codes for information on origin and sustainability practices. For protection as a utility model in Germany, the product (tea composition and packaged product) is claimed as a product and not as a therapeutic application, in accordance with the product-oriented protection procedures for food compositions.

Claims

[1] A herbal tea blend consisting exclusively of processed fronds of Diplacium esculentum, wherein the fronds are harvested at a tender growth stage, washed, dried under controlled conditions and cut or ground to a defined particle size to optimize the infusion and retain the antioxidant components for a caffeine-free beverage. [2] Composition according to claim 1, wherein drying is carried out by freeze-drying, microwave-assisted drying or hot air drying with controlled temperature to maximize the polyphenol content and sensory quality, and the finished product is packaged in moisture- and oxygen-impermeable materials to ensure storage stability. [3] Composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the composition is offered as a leaf bag or powder for rapid preparation in hot water, thereby providing a characteristic flavor profile associated with D. esculentum and meeting consumer demand for antioxidant-rich, caffeine-free herbal teas from underutilized plant species. [4] A packaged product consisting of the herbal tea composition according to one of the preceding claims, together with preparation instructions and information on the origin of sustainably harvested D. esculentum Wedel.