Frequently Asked Questions
Does honeybush tea taste like Rooibos?
Honeybush tea boasts a flavour like Rooibos tea but with a slight sweetness.
Where does the name ‘honeybush’ come from?
The name honeybush derives from the sweet aroma of its yellow flowers, which smell like honey. It’s worth noting that these flowers, although can be, are not required to make honeybush tea; instead, the leaves are primarily used.
Does Honeybush tea contain caffeine?
No, honeybush is entirely caffeine-free.
Is Honeybush good for colds and flu?
Honeybush is high in calcium, copper, zinc, magnesium, potassium, and sodium, and it can help prevent colds and allergies.
How does Pinital, a modified sugar found in honeybush contribute to health benefits?
Pinitol is being explored for potential blood-sugar-lowering effects in diabetes treatment. Honeybush has also been associated as a traditional treatment for coughs.
How can Honeybush be prepared and served?
Honeybush is prepared by steeping its leaves in hot water and can be served hot or cold. The quantity of leaves used is a matter of personal preference, and it also makes an excellent iced tea alternative.
Which compounds found in Honeybush serve as antioxidants and help reduce blood lipids?
Honeybush contains various compounds like flavones, isoflavones, coumestans, luteolin, 4-hydroxycinnamic acid, polyphenols, and xanthones, which function as antioxidants and may help reduce blood lipids.
Does honeybush maintain its taste even after prolonged brewing?
Yes, honeybush tea retains its taste due to its very low tannin levels.
What family of plants is Cyclopia part of?
Cyclopia belongs to the Fabaceae family, (Leguminosae) specifically in the subfamily Faboideae.
Does the genus, Cyclopia include all 23 species of honeybush?
Yes, Cyclopia is a group of plants found in South Africa’s Fynbos Biome, with 24 types, 23 of which are still existing.
How many species of Honeybush are suitable for tea production?
The species of Cyclopia used to produce honeybush tea include:
- Cyclopia intermedia
- Cyclopia Subernata
- Cyclopia Longifolia
- Cyclopia genistodies
- Cyclopia maculata
- Cyclopia sessiliflora
In which regions of South Africa does this shrub thrive?
Honeybush thrives exclusively in the coastal and mountainous regions of South Africa’s Western and Eastern Cape.
Can all Honeybush species be cultivated?
Some Honeybush species resist cultivation and can only be gathered from the wild.
What can the Honeybush flowers be used for?
Luteolin, the primary yellow pigment in honeybush flowers, has historically been used as a dye.