Korean Barley Tea (Bori-cha)! Why the World Is Obsessed with This Ancient Detox Elixir!

1. What Is Korean Barley Tea (Bori-cha)?

The Meaning of Bori-cha

Bori-cha is

a traditional Korean

tea made from roasted barley,

called "bori" in Korean.

The word "cha" simply

means tea. It’s a caffeine-free,

toasted infusion known for its

nutty flavor, amber color,

and incredible health benefits.

Unlike other teas

made from leaves or herbs,

Bori-cha is brewed

from whole barley grains,

either hulled or pearled,

which gives the tea

its unique taste

and natural aroma.

Historical Background

This humble tea

has been consumed

in Korean households

for centuries.

It’s deeply

woven into everyday life,

served both hot and cold,

across all seasons.

It is believed

to have originated

in the Three Kingdoms period,

gaining popularity as

a folk remedy

for digestion and body cooling.

2. Health Benefits of Korean Barley Tea

Rich in Antioxidants

Roasted barley

contains ferulic acid,

a powerful antioxidant

that helps reduce

inflammation, oxidative stress,

and may support heart health.

Aids Digestion

Bori-cha is traditionally

used in Korea to

soothe the stomach.

It is gentle and

can help relieve bloating,

gas, and constipation.

Caffeine-Free Hydration

This tea offers

a great alternative

to coffee or black tea.

It provides flavorful hydration

without caffeine,

making it perfect

for children, pregnant women,

or those with sleep issues.

Blood Sugar Control

Recent studies suggest

that barley may

help regulate blood sugar,

making it a good choice

for people managing diabetes

or insulin resistance.

However, more research

is still ongoing.

Supports Weight Management

Barley tea has

almost zero calories,

and the warm brew

can help suppress appetite,

promoting a healthy metabolism

when paired with

a balanced diet.

3. How to Brew Korean Barley Tea

Ingredients and Preparation

You’ll need

1/4 cup roasted barley
8 cups of water

Instructions

Rinse the barley

quickly under cold water

to remove dust.
Add it to a pot

with water.
Bring to a boil,

then simmer for

about 15-20 minutes.
Strain the grains,

and enjoy hot

or chill in the fridge

for a cold version.

Tips for Better Flavor

For a deeper aroma,

dry-roast the barley

in a pan before boiling.
To save time,

use tea bags

available in Asian markets.
Combine with corn tea

(oksusu-cha) for

a sweeter blend.

4. Where to Buy Bori-cha

Local Korean Markets

Most Korean grocery stores

sell roasted barley

either as loose grains

or in convenient tea bags.

Popular brands include

Dong Suh, Ottogi,

and Assi.

Online Options

You can find Bori-cha

on websites like

Amazon
H Mart
KoreanMall
YesStyle

Make sure to choose

non-GMO, organic,

and whole grain varieties

for best quality.

5. Bori-cha in Korean Culture

Daily Consumption

In Korean households,

Bori-cha is often

used instead of water.

It's poured into

water bottles, served

at restaurants, and

offered to guest

as a welcoming gesture.

Served in Hospitals

Due to its digestive benefits,

Bori-cha is commonly served

in Korean hospitals,

especially to patients

recovering from surgery

or suffering gastrointestinal issues.

6. Bori-cha vs. Other Barley Teas

Type	Origin	Roasting	Caffeine	Taste
Bori-cha	Korea	Yes	No	Nutty, smooth
Mugicha	Japan	Yes	No	Earthy, toasty
Damai-cha	China	Sometimes	No	Light, herbal

While all are

barley-based, the preparation

and cultural significance

differ slightly by region.

7. Is Bori-cha Safe for Everyone?

General Safety

Bori-cha is safe

for most people

including children and the elderly.

Allergy Caution

If you have a

gluten intolerance or celiac disease,

note that barley contains gluten.

Opt for certified gluten-free teas

or consult a doctor

before drinking.

Korean Bori-cha

is more than just a tea—

it’s a cultural staple,

a health booster,

and a delicious way

to stay hydrated.

Whether you're looking

for a caffeine-free drink,

a digestive aid,

or a taste of Korea,

Bori-cha is a perfect

addition to your day.