O’ways

Flavours Of Kindness
issue 4, Nov 2023

SA’s Bedtime Remedy:
Honeybush Tea

 

Unlocking the Magic of Honeybush Tea: A Sweet Symphony of Flavor and Wellness

TEA, Issue 4

Nigiro's brewed Honeybush Tea

Words by Billy Wong. Images by GroundedIngredients

In the realm of South African tea history, Nigiro’s Honeybush tea stands as a remarkable tale—one that embodies the serendipity often found in the narratives of this land. “I know a friend who knows a friend,” Mingwei remarked with a smile, reflecting on his first encounter with honeybush tea in the heart of South Africa.

Nigiro tending honeybush seedlings in the nursery

Honeybush farmer tending honeybush seedlings in the nursery

Tea-connection: Land, tea and people

Back in 2015, Mingwei embarked on a journey that led him to the Eastern Cape Provinces, a place now synonymous with his tea venture. This region, now known for its connection to Nigiro’s tea ambition, initially held a quieter place in the world’s tea consciousness. What set this place apart was not only the tea it nurtured but also the strong bonds formed with local farm owners who shared an unwavering affection for honeybush.

At Nigiro, our mission is clear—popularizing honeybush tea among the public. It’s not just about celebrating its unique origin, distinctive taste, and health benefits; it’s a profound commitment to nurturing our environment and fostering awareness about ethical farming practices that revolve around the well-being of our South African farming community.

And so, with each cup of Nigiro’s Honeybush tea, we honor this commitment. As our founder fondly recalls, this journey was destined, and it continues to be driven by love—for the land, the tea, and the people who cultivate it.

It boasts a sweet, honey-like aroma and a smooth, slightly nutty taste that’s bound to please your palate. No wonder it’s often referred to as the “cousin” of rooibos.

Brief Introduction to Honeybush: The South African Treasure

Honeybush tea, also known as “Heuningtee” in Afrikaans, hails from the beautiful landscapes of South Africa. It’s derived from the Cyclopia plant, which belongs to the legume family and has been used for centuries as an herbal infusion.

 

Flavorful Notes of Honeybush Tea: A Taste Like No Other

Now, let’s talk about taste. If you’re a fan of rooibos tea, you’re in for a treat. Honeybush tea offers a similar, yet subtly unique, experience. It boasts a sweet, honey-like aroma and a smooth, slightly nutty taste that’s bound to please your palate. No wonder it’s often referred to as the “cousin” of rooibos.

The Health Benefits: Sip Your Way to Wellness

Honeybush isn’t just about its exquisite taste; it’s packed with health benefits that make it a standout in the world of herbal teas. Let’s explore a few of the remarkable advantages:

Rich in Antioxidants

Just like green tea, Honeybush is loaded with antioxidants, which are known for their ability to combat free radicals and protect your body from oxidative stress.

Caffeine-Free Bliss

Are you looking to cut back on caffeine but still need that warm, comforting beverage? Honeybush has your back. It’s entirely caffeine-free, making it perfect for a relaxing evening drink.

Digestive Aid

Some folks swear by Honeybush for its digestive benefits. It’s believed to alleviate indigestion and other tummy troubles.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

The tea’s potential anti-inflammatory properties may help with conditions like arthritis and other inflammatory issues.

Improved Skin Health

If you’re seeking that radiant glow, Honeybush could be your secret weapon. Its antioxidants may contribute to healthier, more youthful-looking skin.

A Soothing Bedtime Companion

Due to its caffeine-free nature and soothing qualities, a cup of Honeybush tea before bed can be your ticket to a good night’s sleep.

Nigiro's honeybush tea research and development trial block

Our honeybush tea research and development trial block

Nigiro's honeybush tea cyclopia intermedia flower

Cyclopia intermedia in flower

Nigiro Honeybush tea is a soothing bedtime companion

Honeybush tea before bed can be your ticket to a good night’s sleep.
Photo by Ann Danilina on Unsplash

Step-By-Step Brewing Guide: Brewing Your Honeybush Tea

 

Okay, now that you’re all excited to give Honeybush a try, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of brewing the perfect cup. Here’s how you do it:

Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon of Honeybush tea leaves (or a tea bag)
  • 8 ounces of freshly boiled water

Instructions

  1. Boil the water and let it cool for a minute or two. You don’t want to scorch the delicate Honeybush leaves.
  2. Place the Honeybush tea leaves or tea bag in your favourite cup or teapot.
  3. Pour the hot water over the tea leaves or tea bag.
  4. Allow it to infuse for a duration of 5 to 7 minutes, enabling the full blossoming of its delightful flavours.
  5. You can enjoy it as is or add a touch of honey for an extra layer of sweetness.
Nigiro regenerative honeybush cultivation

Regenerative Honeybush Cultivation

Nigiro honeybush biodiversity

Honeybush biodiversity

Okay, now that you’re all excited to give Honeybush a try, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of brewing the perfect cup. Here’s how you do it:

Tea-Experience: A Breathtaking Journey

So, there you have it – the lowdown on Honeybush tea. It’s not just a delicious drink; it’s a companion on your journey to wellness. The sweet, nutty flavour and the array of health benefits make it a top pick for any tea lover.

Where to Find Honeybush Tea

If the wholesome qualities of honeybush tea entice you, you might be wondering where to find this remarkable brew. Look no further than our curated honeybush tea collection. We take pride in sourcing the finest honeybush tea to offer you the most authentic South African experience. Our collection features a variety of honeybush blends, each with its own distinct character. Our selection caters to every palate, from pure honeybush for the purists to enticing flavoured infusions. Explore the world of honeybush tea with us and savour the natural flavours of South Africa.

Nigiro’s Commitment to Sustainable Honeybush Farming

At Nigiro, we are deeply committed to sustainable farming practices. Our Honeybush partners share our dedication to regenerative agriculture, working hand in hand with producers to revitalize their soils and uplift local economies. Our Honeybush is sourced through regenerative cultivation and sustainable wild harvesting, ensuring 100% traceability throughout the process. We adhere to recognized certification standards such as Organic and Regenerative Organic, drawing inspiration from the ethical principles set forth by organizations like the Union for Ethical Biotrade, Commonland, and FairWild.

So, when you savour the robust fragrance of a freshly brewed cup of our Honeybush tea, you’re not just enjoying a delightful sip; you’re also experiencing the peace and harmony that our dedicated team has cultivated.

Here are two general directions to choose from depending on your wellness goals.

For Relaxation

If you’re looking to relax, opt for a calming herbal infusion:

Named after the region for the home of Honeybush, “Garden Route” and its surrounding regions paint the magnificent energy of vitality and peace. This blend concludes the vibrant picture with fruits and herbs to deliver an experience of full body, calming and subtle sweet woody connections blossoming to welcome the light.

This blend stands as one of the most exciting blending accidents and discoveries of Nigiro. Unbelievable harmony between the Tibetan Snow Chrysanthemum and South African Honeybush, sharing their unique sweet-scented aroma and flavour together. Perfect knot.

Ultra-high grade of Rooibos and Honeybush. Prime of South Africa. Honeybush is sweet and earthy from the wetter part of South Africa, between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, representing water, complimenting the fire of the selected high mountain Rooibos from the Cederberg mountains, this harmonious blend is sweet, woody and filled with hints of honey, berries and orange. Ultra-high grade of Rooibos and Honeybush. Prime of South Africa. Honeybush is sweet and earthy, whereas Rooibos is sweet, woody, and hinted at with citrus orange. Great combination.

For Refreshing and Energising

If you seek a refreshing and energising cup, explore our citrus or berry-infused blends. Your perfect honeybush tea is just a sip away:

Honeybush flavoured with blood orange essence and orange pieces presents a less sweet and citrus edge of a honeybush base. Rich, brilliant and brightly coloured. Chai Honeybush Blend is a blend of spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and pink peppercorns. Inspired by the Spice Trade between the East and Africa, the Treasure of the Eastern Cape is gifted to the rest of the world.

Blend of spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, cloves and pink peppercorns. Inspired by the Spice Trade between the East and Africa, the Treasure of the Eastern Cape is gifted to the rest of the world.

Tea-Thoughts: Sip, Savor, and Enjoy

In the world of teas, honeybush stands out as a caffeine-free, wellness-promoting infusion, and it’s time to embrace its numerous benefits. Whether you’re looking for tranquillity before bedtime, a caffeine-free energy boost, or a unique taste of South Africa, honeybush tea is your serene companion. So, let your tea journey begin, and let the soothing flavours of honeybush enhance your health and well-being.

Brew a cup, take a sip, and immerse yourself in the magic of South Africa’s bedtime remedy – Honeybush tea

Nigiro brewed honeybush

A cup of Nigiro freshly brewed honeybush tea turns your bedtime into a tranquil experience.

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