Our Herbal Teas

Burdock root
most commonly used for skin complaints such as acne or dry scaly skin conditions. It acts by pushing toxins out onto the surface of the skin but can also be given as a diuretic to help flush out toxins from the liver.

Chamomile Flowers, whole flower heads
the glorious chamomile flower is gentle yet powerful. An aromatic, anti-inflammatory herb with relaxant and anti-spasmodic properties that act mainly on the digestive system. Use internally for problems including  constipation, irritable bowel, morning sickness and colic. Good for painful menstruation, anxiety, headaches and insomnia. For feverish illness, hyperactivity, restlessness and over-excitability.
Apply externally for irritated or sore skin, a facial rinse will tone and tighten the skin, and as a rinse for blonde hair.

Cola Nuts, crushed
a centuries old stimulant from Africa, originally used by camel traders who chewed the seeds to maintain alertness on long monotonous desert journeys. Though bitter at first the seeds have the after-effect of making things taste sweet. In Africa, South America and Asia the nuts are often chewed before meals to aid digestion, and the nuts can contain up to 3.5 per cent caffeine. It is possible that the name for the plant probably comes from kolo  the Mandingo name for the plant, “Cola” is now a household name for cola-flavoured soft drinks. An astringent, bitter-sweet, anti-depressant herb that has a stimulant effect, especially on the heart. As a tea it can be a tonic for low energy, exhaustion and poor appetite; also for diarrhoea.
Do not take if you have hypertension, palpitations, peptic ulcers or for prolonged periods of time.

Comfrey Leaf
is perhaps one of the most effective wound healing herbs of all. Stimulating the cells which repair skin, connective tissue and bone, hence it being known as ‘knit bone’. It is demulcent and helps soothe irritation and inflammation in the digestive tract. It is also an astringent and a relaxing expectorant working well on persistent coughs.
Avoid during pregnancy, breastfeeding and infancy.

Damiana  
the tea made from the fragrant leaves of this shrub have a reputation as a mood calmer and an anti-depressant as well as being a stress and tension beater. Therefore producing a more positive frame of mind. A good tea for people with hectic and busy lifestyles. It is also known as an aphrodisiac.

Dandelion
the dandelion is one of natures treasures. Suitable for any condition that requires cleansing of the system. The leaf is particularly as a diuretic and for water retention, very helpful for cystitis.
Do not take dandelion if taking prescribed water tablets.

Echinacea
a most versatile herb, an excellent blood purifier,
anti-biotic and an immune system booster. It has long been used to prevent and help to reduce the symptoms of the common cold and hay fever by relieving the severity of a runny nose and a sore throat. Studies show that Echinacea is effective in treating infectious conditions including upper respiratory infections and sinusitis. Its anti-bacterial properties can stimulate wound healing and are of benefit to skin conditions such as burns, insect bites, ulcers, psoriasis, acne and eczema. The anti-inflammatory properties can help with arthritis and lymphatic swelling.
Echinacea should only be taken daily during a cold or flu season. For the maintenance of a healthy immune system drink this herb every fourteen days.

Egyptian Mint
spearmint has been used medicinally since at least the time of the ancient Egyptians. Mints are aromatic digestive stimulants. A useful remedy for colic, diarrhoea, sluggish digestion, flatulence and relief of nausea. A hot infusion helps to relieve colds and bronchitis and is a good decongestant. Spearmint is particularly suited for easing digestive upsets associated with nervous tension, having a gentler action than peppermint. Drink between and after meals. Delicious as an ice tea made with lemonade or soda and lots of ice.

Elderflowers
elderflowers are used in particular to relieve catarrh and to improve the tone of nasal membranes, they help to raise resistance to respiratory infections. Taken early on in influenza can dramatically improve recovery time. Elderflowers encourage the fever response and stimulates sweating, which helps prevent very high temperatures and provides an important channel for detoxification in addition the flowers are a diuretic. Drink hot with peppermint and yarrow, then rest to literally ’sweat it out’.
Elderflowers make  popular hay-fever treatments for their
anti-catarrhal properties and their diuretic effect can also help to reduce fluid congestion. As a bedtime tea the flowers help to ease you into a pleasant nights sleep.

Elecampane
is used primarily for coughs, bronchitis and emphysema. It also has anti-spasmodic properties, stimulates the flow of bile and has a beneficial effect on the digestive system, facts well-known in folk medicine.

Energy Boost Blend
a nourishing, sustaining and immune system boosting herbal tea. A delicious blend of Yerba Mate, nettle, fennel seeds, hibiscus flowers, star anise, cinnamon, orange peel, ginger pieces, cardamom and liquorice root. A herbal tea favoured by many practitioners of martial arts.

Fevergrass
a powerful and useful herb and very effective against hay-fever colds and influenza. It has an anti-bacterial agent that destroys and halts the growth of bacteria. Fevergrass has sedative properties that exerts a soothing and tranquilising effect, in turn reducing anxiety, stress and irritability and also acts as an anti-depressant. It is a good digestive aid, anti-hypertension and good for the liver. The tea has a pleasant lemon taste and produces a feeling of comfort and calmness to the body and mind. Fevergrass is recommended as a pre-bedtime drink. After taking a cup do not drive.

Fennel Seeds
the seeds of the herb fennel are sweet, aromatic, diuretic, anti-spasmodic and reduce inflammation. The high quality seeds are relaxing and warming to the digestive system, relieving indigestion wind and colic. Helpful with debility and lethargy associated with depression. An excellent tea for nursing mothers as the seeds help where there is insufficient lactation and the natural relaxing substances of the fennel are passed through the breast milk and help relieve colic in babies.
Do not take for prolonged periods of time.

Ginger & Lemon
a soothing blend of lemongrass, ginger, lemon peels, rosehips, lemon balm and lemon verbena. A good choice for winter, protective and warming.

Ginger & Ginseng
a well-balanced blend of herbs that will energise and nourish. Ginseng to revitalise, treat exhaustion, impotence and lack of appetite. Ginger to soothe and warm. Echinacea to support and stimulate the immune system and to fight colds and flu. Orange peel for vitamin C and flavour.

Honey bush
the Honeybush shrub owes its name to its characteristic appearance. The blossoms are bright yellow and smell like honey, whereas the leaves are somewhat rougher than those of Redbush (Rooibos). The South Africans call it “vegetable bush”, due to its pod-shaped fruits and knobbly roots. The wild growing plants thrive exclusively on small mountain ranges in the Longkoof District. It is now cultivated organically for commercial purposes in 35 different locations. The infusion tastes pleasantly sweet and aromatic.

Honey bush & Cinnamon
a warming blend of caffeine free South African Honeybush tea combined with cinnamon pieces cola nuts(contains caffeine) and delicate orange blossoms.

Honey bush & Ginger
delicious, tasty and refreshing South African Honeybush  naturally caffeine free, low in tannin and rich with anti-oxidants. Blended with ginger pieces, orange peels, rosehips and lemongrass.

Hibiscus Flowers
a rich, deep, astringent cooling herb that has diuret6ic effects, helps lower fever and provides vitamin C. An excellent tonic for digestive and kidney functions. Hibiscus flowers also have the reputation of being an aphrodisiac. A strong infusion of the flowers can be used as a rinse on dark hair as it will keep it looking shiny and healthy.

Hyssop
hyssop is a sedative, diaphoretic, relaxing and expectorant. Research has demonstrated that hyssop has both an action that soothes the mucous membranes and expectorant properties. Hippocrates recommended hyssop for chest complaints and it is useful for colds, chest infections, bronchial congestion and asthma. It is an excellent herb for children, specifically for over-excitability and asthma with a nervous component. A hyssop infusion is relaxing and makes a very pleasant tea for nervous exhaustion.
Avoid during pregnancy or if you have high blood pressure.

Jasmine Flowers, pure
the fragrant jasmine flower has a delicious flavour with a delicate slightly musky note. The flower has a soothing, warming anti-inflammatory effect on the bodies joints and they rejuvenate dry skin making it feel soft and hydrated. It has anti-septic and expectorant properties making it a useful tea to drink for catarrh, chest and throat infections.

Lapacho also known as Pau D’Arco and Taheebo
used by the ancient Inca Indians, Lapacho is an important herb from the rainforests of South America. Tea made from the shredded inner bark helps to boost the immune defence mechanism of the body. This herb offers protection against a wide range of bacterial and fungal organisms including Candida which cause thrush. The tea made from this bark was reputedly taken regularly by Mahatma Ghandi.

Lavender Flowers, pure
this fine fragrant herb has a wide range of uses. As an infusion and a tea it acts by carrying the blood away from the head and relaxes the nervous system. By relaxing the nervous system it is useful for pain, burns and cramp. Helpful for insomnia and headaches caused by tension. As an anti-septic it can be useful for urinary tract infections. The Romans used lavender to wash the skin and hair, having  cleansing and healing properties. Lavender is generally safe to use, however it is not recommended if you have asthma of hay-fever. 

Lemon Balm
an aromatic, cooling, sedative herb that lowers fever, improves digestion and relaxes spasms. It has anti-viral, anti-bacterial and insect repellent effects. The tea is good for nervous disorders, indigestion associated with nervous tension, excitability with igestive upsets in children, anxiety, palpitations and tension headaches. Use externally for cold sores, gout, insect bites and as a n insect repellent.

Lemongrass
an aromatic, cooling herb that increases perspiration and reduces spasms. Also has sedative action effective against fungal and bacterial infections. Lemongrass has a tonic effect on the nervous system and the body in general. Reputed use as a painkiller and anti-depressant. Good for headaches, lethargy, symptoms of stress and beneficial for muscular pain and poor muscle tone. Can be used for digestive problems in children and minor feverish illnesses.
Use externally for ringworm, lice, athletes foot arthritis and scabies.

Lemon Verbena
has been a favourite for garden rooms since it was introduced from Chile in 1794. The dried leaves retain their fragrance well. An astringent herb, rich in volatile oils, that acts as a mild sedative relieving spasms especially for the digestive system and reducing fever.

Limeflowers
are sedative, relaxant, anti-spasmodic and a vasodilator(an agent that relaxes and widens the blood vessels) It can also be used as a diaphoretic and it has diuretic properties. With their mild and pleasant taste limeflowers are among the most popular of te herbal relaxants. Useful for treating migraine and a range of circulatory problems including varicose veins. The saponins and flavonoids are thought to have a beneficial effect on the blood vessel walls in people with hardening of the arteries and limeflower is one of the major herbs used to treat high blood pressure.  As a diaphoretic is good for feverish colds and catarrh.

Liquorice Root, cut
a sweet, moist soothing herb that is anti-inflammatory and expectorant. As a tea liquorice provides a soothing action on troublesome coughs, sore throats, hoarseness and bronchial catarrh. Liquorice has been known to be effective in the treatment of ulcers, detoxifies and protects the liver and also has laxative properties.
Daily dose should not exceed 4g and not to be taken for pro-longed periods of time. Do not use if pregnant  or if there is anaemia, high blood pressure, kidney disease or taking digoxin-based medication. Excess use causes water retention and high blood pressure.

Mulled Wine Spice Blend
our delicious blend of traditional winter warming spices. With our recipe you can make both alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions. A welcoming drink to share with family and friends - cheers and good health!

Milk Thistle
known as ‘blessed thistle’, is a diuretic, tonic herb tat regenerates the liver cells, stimulates the flow of bile, increases milk production and relaxes spasms. Primarily known for its use to promote milk flow, but it also helps nursing mothers maintain a healthy appetite. An excellent tea for liver and gall bladder diseases, jaundice, hepatitis, liver damage, cirrhosis and poisoning(especially by alcohol, drugs and cigarettes - by stabilising cell membranes it can help the body function more efficiently.) A useful aid for catarrh, depression and travel sickness. Milk thistle has a soft pleasant taste making it easy to drink

Nettle
an astringent, diuretic, tonic herb that controls bleeding, clears toxins and slightly reduces blood pressure and blood sugar. Rich in vitamins A and C, minerals especially iron; it also contains amines(mainly histamine and serotonin). Under the direction of  your GP/Midwife nettle is a good tea to drink during pregnancy. It is nourishing, blood purifying and stimulates the production of new red blood cells. Useful for anaemia, heavy menstrual bleeding, haemorrhoids, arthritis, rheumatism, gout, skin omplaints(especially eczema), allergies, urinary gravel and water retention. Use externally for arthritic pain, gout, sciatica, neuralgia, scalp and hair problems.

Olive Leaf
an antiseptic and astringent herb that lowers fever and blood pressure, it helps to improve kidney function and has a calming effect on the nervous system.

Peppermint, cut
the cut peppermint produces a more intensive cup in contrast to the whole leaf due to the essential oil being released from the cut edge. A decongestant, strongly aromatic, bitter herb. Relieves spasms, increases perspiration, improves digestion and has antiseptic, mildly anaesthetic effects; acts mainly on the digestive system especially on the lower bowel. Peppermint tea is good for nausea, morning sickness, indigestion, acid reflux, gastric ulcer, gastroenteritis, irritable bowel syndrome, trapped wind, influenza(especially in the feverish stage) and colds. It is a refreshing and reviving tea enjoyable hot or iced.
Do not give to infants in any form

Passionflower
a bitter, sedative, cooling herb that relieves pain, relaxes spasms and lowers blood pressure. The sedative effect is thought to be derived from its flavonoids which have some of the same pharmacological effects as the widely prescription sedative and muscle relaxant Diazepam, but without the side effects. Passionflower tea is used for nervous tension, anxiety, insomnia, irritability, tension headache, irritable bowel syndrome, pre-menstrual tension, hypertension and shingles. It may be possible to assist withdrawal from addictive drugs.

Plantain
in many parts of the world plantain is known as ‘whites mans foot’ alluding to the way that it spread around the world during colonial times in the trouser turn-ups of Europeans. An astringent herb that is diuretic, expectorant and catarrhal, promotes healing and is effective against bacterial infections. Plantain is an excellent restorative tonic for all forms of respiratory congestion- nasal catarrh, bronchitis, sinusitis and middle ear infections. It is also good for diarrhoea, haemorrhoids, cystitis, hay-fever, dry coughs, gastritis, gastric ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome. Plantain is also rich in minerals such as zinc, silica and potassium. Externally it can be used on wounds, bruises, insect bites, ulcers, shingles, haemorrhoids and various ulcers.

Raspberry Leaf
period pains and labour pains can be eased by drinking raspberry leaf tea. For period pains treatment should be started several days before the onset of menstruation. As a preparative treatment for labours the tea should be taken in the late stages of pregnancy and during labour upon the advice of your GP/Midwife

Redbush ‘Rooibos’, pure.
South African Rooibos is free from caffeine and tannic acid. We only offer Rooibos which has been repeatedly sieved to ensure an even and premium final product. This ’super-grade’ Rooibos is of controlled organic cultivation, the needles are long and even and this high quality ’bush tea’ can be identified by its ruby colour and soft, sweet characteristic taste.

Redbush Chai
a variation of the traditional masala chai. Naturally caffeine free Redbush from South Africa, loaded with aromatic and warming spices. Savour the tastes of aniseed, ginger, black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon and cloves.

Redbush with Cherry & Vanilla
a delicious cherry flavoured Redbush tea blended with vanilla pod, strawberry and cherry pieces. Enjoy hot or iced.

Redbush with Orange, Ginger & Peppercorns
a fantastic tasting combination of caffeine free South African Redbush with hot ginger, sweet pink peppercorns, orange flakes and blossoms.
Try chilled with a splash of lemonade.

Redbush, Green
this tea from the conventional organic cultivation is a variation of the more popular Rooibos(Redbush tea). The well-known characteristics are all there, although differences both in colour and taste can be noticed. The green Rooibos is clearly brighter in colour and has a greener leaf than its ‘big brother’. this derives from the incomplete fermentation process. This original taste sensation offers a fresh, lively taste with a slightly tangy flavour, the aroma is light and elegant.

Redbush - Green with Lemon & Vanilla
this combination offers the tantalising of lemon cheesecake! Naturally caffeine free green Redbush from South Africa with lemongrass, lemon peel and vanilla.

Rose, pure buds and petals
delicate, aromatic, astringent, tonic herb that controls bacterial infections, promotes healing, calming and improves morale. An excellent tea for colds, bronchial infections, gastritis, diarrhoea depression and lethargy. The petals can be used for culinary purposes, crystallised for decorating cakes and chocolates, Both petals and buds are important ingredients of the North African spice mixture ras-el-hanout. Enjoy the scent of a rose garden after summer rain, savour the moment.

Rosehips
of the wild ‘dog rose’ contain large amounts of vitamins, notably vitamin C; one cup of rosehip pulp contains as much vitamin C as 40 oranges. An acidic, astringent, tonic herb, rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C and K, flavonoids, tannins and plant sugars. Rosehips are an old remedy for colds, influenza and mild diarrhoea. The astringent properties help to strengthen the stomach muscles, and will soothe a cough.  

Sleepwell Blend
a gentle mix of herbs to help create a relaxed and restful sleep. A soothing blend of lemon balm, lemon verbena, peppermint, chamomile flowers, orange blossoms and lemongrass.

Senna  Pods
traditionally used for internal cleansing, relief from constipation(not in the case of an impacted bowel), as a laxative and for disorders in which the passing of a soft stool is required. Senna pods should always be used with care, it is important not to use in conjunction with any other laxatives, during pregnancy or whilst breastfeeding.

Sage
the wise sage is reputed to be helpful for helping concentration and retain information, useful at exam time! An astringent, antiseptic, tonic herb with a camphor like aroma. It relaxes spasms, suppresses perspiration and lactation, improves liver function, digestion, circulation and has anti-inflammatory and anti-depressant effects. Sage has specific uses for symptoms of the menopause including hot flushes and night-sweats- for these drink the tea cold.  A strong infusion makes an ideal mouthwash for mouth ulcers, swollen gums and sore throats. Do not take for prolonged periods, avoid if pregnant, breastfeeding or suffering with epilepsy.

Vervain
a bitter aromatic, cooling herb that is diuretic, calms the nerves, improves digestion, increases perspiration and lactation, reduces inflammation and relieves pain, improves liver and gall bladder function. Vervain tea  helps with nervous exhaustion and depression, it is restorative for debilitating conditions, migraine, jaundice and gall bladder problems. It is also reputed to be a traditional aphrodisiac. Not for use during pregnancy but under the guidance of your GP/Midwife the tea can be sipped through labour to encourage regular contractions, continue after birth for a while to help with good milk flow. It can also help with post-natal depression and poor menstrual flow. A strong infusion makes an excellent mouthwash for problems associated with dental and gum disease.
Do not take for prolonged periods. 

Yerba  Mate
known in South America as the ‘beverage of the Gods’, mate has become the national drink in almost every country on the continent over the years. The matteine is bound to tannic substances and is released into the body gently, therefore the stimulating effect is longer lasting. A short infusion time brings about a stimulating effect, a longer one weakens it. Mate is an effective to the immune system and helps to cleanse and detoxify the whole body. It is reputed to have anti-ageing properties, be able to reduce fatigue, stimulate the mind and control the appetite- an ideal choice for slimmer’s. Helps to reduce stress and insomnia, Mate is especially valuable as a ‘tonic boost’ during a busy working day.

Yarrow
a sacred plant in many cultures, in China the stalks were used to cast I Ching to read the future for the emperor. Auyervedics use the herb the herb as a ‘heal-all’ because it has so many uses. Yarrow balances emotional upsets and is a frequent addition to treatments during menopause. An aromatic, bitter, astringent herb, a diaphoretic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, anti-spasmodic and styptic. Good for the early stages of fever- especially with a hot dry skin, catarrh, sinusitis, hay-fever, dust allergies, diarrhoea, colicky pains and weak digestion. Helpful with irregular menstrual bleeding and period pains. An ideal herb to bathe in for relief of aches and pains.  

*(Larger quantities available upon request).