BOHEA, a species of tea which is generally used for breakfast, with or without milk. It was formerly supposed, that infusions of this herb would sensibly satisfy the cravings of hunger, and afford a balsamic nutriment; for which reason they were highly recommended in decays and inward ulcerations, especially those of the lungs. But such virtues are no longer attributed to these, or any other tea-leaves: on the contrary, it is now generally understood, that all warm or hot liquors, and tea in particular, have a direct tendency to weaken the organs of digestion, and consequently to impair the appetite for food. From this circumstance, we apprehend, it has erroneously been inferred, that such beverage is nourishing.—See Tea.