Honeybush Tea
Honeybush tea is commonly found in South Africa. It grows in the Coastal districts of West and East Cape Provinces stretching from Darling to Port Elizabeth. The tea has different names including Bushtea, Bergtee, and Bossietee among others. The shrub is grows mostly in mountain peaks, perennial streams, marshy areas, shalebands and wet southern slopes. Honeybush tea is normally consumed with milk and sugar but to appreciate the taste and flavour, no milk or sugar should be added. Adding a small bit of honey brings out honey like flavour. Descriptions of the flavour vary from that of hot apricot jam, floral and honey-like. The tea is mildly sweet and can be used as iced tea when cold. It also blends well with fruit juices. Honeybush tea is prepared by boiling approximately 2-3 tablespoonfuls per every litre of water for 20 minutes.
Health Benefits of Honeybush Tea
Studies have shown that honeybush tea: Eases constipation. Is an inexpensive method of losing weight as it staves off hunger pangs and reduces water retention. Is caffeine free and has a soothing effect on the central nervous system. Has been traditionally used to treat cough as it contains piniton, a modified sugar that is used to make cough syrups. Piniton also lowers blood sugar levels and is currently being developed by pharmaceuticals as a prescription drug for diabetics. It can also be applied to the skin to soothe skin irritations. Contains anti-oxidants that help lower blood lipids (fatty substances). Contains elements that are known to prevent breast cancer, prostate cancer and uterine cancer. It keeps high cholesterol levels in the blood under control. Consists of elements that are used in the treatment of menopausal symptoms. It is rich in minerals such as iron, potassium, calcium, copper, zinc, magnesium, manganese, and sodium.
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