Archaeological evidence shows that Yaupon has been an integral part of Native American culture for over a millennium. The earliest known use dates back to 1050 AD at Cahokia Mounds in Illinois, where Yaupon residues were found in ceramic vessels. Although the exact origins are unknown, it’s clear that Indigenous peoples have long valued this plant.

• American Settlers: Early settlers traded with Native Americans for Yaupon tea, exporting it to Europe under names like Carolina Tea, South Seas Tea, and Cassina. The Spanish called it Indian Chocolate due to its sweet flavor, and it was later known as Liberty Tea, used in Boston after the Tea Party and popular among soldiers during the Civil War.

• The Forgotten Tea: By the mid-1800s, Yaupon tea’s popularity waned due to the displacement of Native American tribes and the banning of Indigenous rituals. Economic pressures and social stigmas caused Yaupon to fall out of favor, with imported teas becoming a symbol of status. A damaging label, Ilex vomitoria, assigned by botanist William Aiton in 1789, further tarnished its reputation. Though some tribes and coastal communities continued its use, Yaupon largely faded from American culture by the 1860s.

• Yaupon Revival: After nearly 150 years of obscurity, Yaupon tea is making a comeback. Named the #1 food trend of 2023 by Whole Foods, Yaupon is gaining recognition for its unique flavor, health benefits, and sustainable cultivation—appealing to modern consumers looking for eco-friendly alternatives to coffee and imported teas.