Honeybush — a drink with more than one name
Have you ever heard of honeybush tea? If not, it is time to fill that gap. This article explains what honeybush is, its health-related properties and who can drink an infusion of this plant. Three, two, one — let us begin!
What exactly is honeybush?
Honeybush is a plant found in South Africa. It thrives only in that climate: attempts to establish it elsewhere have failed. Most honeybush tea sold therefore comes from wild plants collected by local South African people.
The dried material contains needle-like leaves, young shoots, stems and flowers, which become the honeybush herbal tea known to Africans for many years.
Its name is no accident. It refers to the honey-like aroma produced by the shrub's flowers. A honeybush infusion has a distinctive floral-fruity aroma and a slightly sweet flavour reminiscent of a drink made from dried fruit.
Interestingly, honeybush is related to rooibos. Rooibos makes one of the most popular teas not only in Africa but worldwide. Learn more in What do we know about rooibos tea, and why is it worth drinking?
Honeybush tea — its properties
A honeybush infusion offers more than distinctive flavour: it has numerous health-related qualities. Like rooibos, it contains no caffeine or tannins, which is why it is also chosen for children, during pregnancy and after childbirth, and by people with high blood pressure.
It is associated with soothing and relaxing effects and is particularly recommended before bed to support people struggling with sleeplessness. Honeybush is also associated with pain-relieving and muscle-relaxing properties, making it popular among people with migraines or digestive abdominal discomfort. It is also recommended for women experiencing strong menstrual or menopausal discomfort.
Its attributed antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties deserve mention. Honeybush tea, ideally with honey and lemon, is traditionally enjoyed during colds, especially with a persistent cough or sore throat.
Another quality discussed is its favourable influence on carbohydrate metabolism: regular honeybush consumption is associated with supporting normal blood glucose levels.
The drink is a treasury of antioxidants. These substances have strong antioxidant properties, helping counter free radicals, which accelerate ageing and contribute to disease.
Regular honeybush drinking is also associated with weight-management support through a faster metabolism. It is additionally recommended for people with asthma or various allergies because of its attributed anti-allergic effects.
Finally, honeybush contains various micronutrients, including zinc, iron, calcium, magnesium, fluoride, potassium, manganese and copper. These support the skeletal and circulatory systems, among others.
How to brew honeybush
A paper filter is best for making honeybush tea without loose particles. Find suitable paper filters here.
Measure one or two teaspoons of dried honeybush and pour over water at 95°C. Cover and leave for around fifteen minutes. The infusion is then ready.
If you enjoy additions, add a teaspoon of honey to reinforce honeybush's characteristic honeyed flavour. Remember to add honey only once the drink has cooled to no more than 50°C; otherwise, it loses its valued health-related qualities.
Read also: What do we know about Earl Grey?