Honeybush

Hailing from the enchanting Cederberg District in South Africa, Honeybush (Latin: Cyclopia spp.) has a captivating history that spans centuries. Its tale unfolds amidst the lush landscapes where Dutch settlers first encountered its allure in the mid-1600s. Yet, it wasn't until almost two centuries later that Honeybush ventured beyond South Africa's borders, esteemed as a delightful caffeine-free tea alternative.

In those early days, Honeybush was gathered meticulously by hand from wild bushes that flourished in the mountainous terrain. Even today, the hand-harvesting tradition prevails, although as the global demand for its magic grows, a shift toward commercial cultivation emerges. Enter the South African Honeybush Producers Association (SAHPA), a fellowship of visionary farmers who joined forces in 1998, aiming to nurture the plant's growth and production techniques.

Under the auspices of this harmonious collaboration, a grand Honeybush plantation bloomed near the town of Haarlem in 2001. The project, a triumphant alliance between SAHPA, the esteemed ASNAPP at Rutgers University, and the Herb Research Foundation of Colorado, united local cultivators with a shared vision. More than 100,000 flourishing plants bore testament to their collective dedication, inspiring the birth of a second vast operation in the picturesque town of Ericaville, with dreams of even more to come.

And how is the captivating essence of Honeybush tea brought forth? The artistry unfolds through four graceful steps, akin to a delicate dance: harvesting, cutting, fermentation, and drying. Once the bushes are tenderly collected, they embark on a transformative journey within the walls of the factory. There, they are gently chopped, facilitating the magical alchemy of fermentation. Some find solace in tightly packed heaps, lovingly enveloped in canvas sacks, while others embrace the warmth of pre-heated baking ovens. The tea surrenders to the passage of time, taking about three days in the nurturing embrace of a curing heap, or approximately 30 hours in the comforting heat of an oven. Finally, it emerges, spreading its wings upon canvas sheets, bathed in sunlight, to dry and breathe in the fresh air for one or two captivating days.

Behold the wondrous elixir that is Honeybush tea, a gift both wholesome and tantalizing. Abstaining from the clutches of caffeine, it stands adorned with the jewel-like richness of antioxidants. A symphony of flavors unfolds upon each sip, offering a subtle sweetness that echoes of honey, interlaced with tender apricot jam and the essence of a sun-kissed medley of dried fruits. Should you wish to unlock its delicate honey-like character, a spoonful of golden nectar added to your cup will unveil its secrets.

While tradition embraces the warmth of Honeybush, its spirit dances gracefully over ice, enchanting the senses as a resplendent summertime refresher. In whichever form it graces your lips, be assured, dear tea aficionado, that Honeybush remains an offering both fascinating and extraordinary, captivating hearts with its mystical allure.