In Ethiopia, small sprigs of Tena’Adam “Rue” often accompany a cup of traditional coffee. As you stir your coffee with its delicate stems, it releases its oils and aromas. Tena’Adam grows abundantly throughout the country, but the richest of these herbs can be found growing in natural forests. The Amharic name translates to “Health of Adam,” alluding to its medicinal properties. Rue is also used in Ethiopian cooking and as part of blended spices such as shiro. Tena’adam is indigenous to Ethiopia amongst several other countries in East Africa. Tena’adam is sometimes referred to as Rue, and is packed with alkaloids that lend themselves to its use in traditional medicine treatment. in addition, its essential oil properties include phenolic compounds and antioxidant and is an important piece of Ethiopia’s coffee drinking tradition; Tena’adam leaves are dipped in the coffee cup, releasing a flavourful aroma and oil.
