Harvesting Ivan Chai: Before It Blooms, It's the Most Potent

Harvesting Ivan Chai: A Guide to Identifying and Gathering Fireweed in Belarus June 14th, 2025 marked the start of Ivan Chai harvesting season in Belarus, as highlighted by a short video posted online. The video features Viktor, a Belarusian herbalist, who demonstrates the best practices for identifying and harvesting this traditional tea plant. Viktor emphasizes the importance of harvesting before the plant flowers, stating, "The best time is before it flowers, when the leaves are most potent." He also points out the similarities between Ivan Chai and Lupine, a poisonous plant, urging viewers to exercise caution. The video provides a visual guide to distinguishing between the two plants. The video's popularity suggests a growing interest in sustainable and traditional practices in Belarus, and Viktor's Telegram channel offers a way for those interested to learn more and obtain the product.