Sip on Solutions

Functional teas, which combine traditional herbs and superfoods, provide a unique way to enjoy a warm beverage while also benefiting from their therapeutic properties.

Honeybush: Naturally Sweet & Soothing

Honeybush tea, native to South Africa, is known for its sweet, honey-like flavour and golden colour. It is caffeine-free, making it a perfect choice for those looking for a soothing tea to enjoy at any time of day.

Honeybush is packed with antioxidants, particularly polyphenols, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. The anti-inflammatory properties of honeybush make it an excellent choice for managing conditions such as arthritis and heart disease. Additionally, its antioxidants support skin health by reducing the effects of ageing and promoting a radiant complexion.

One of the standout benefits of honeybush tea is its potential to support hormonal health. Some studies suggest that honeybush may help alleviate menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, due to its phytoestrogen content. What’s more, honeybush tea is believed to have anti-diabetic effects by regulating blood sugar levels, making it a versatile and health-promoting beverage.

Medicinal Mushrooms: Reishi, Lion's Mane & Cordyceps

Medicinal mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly in Asian cultures. Today, they are gaining popularity in the West for their potential to enhance health and well-being. Three mushrooms stand out for their remarkable benefits: reishi, lion's mane, and cordyceps.

Reishi is often called the "mushroom of immortality" due to its long history of use in promoting longevity and overall wellness. Reishi is a powerful adaptogen, meaning it helps the body cope with stress. It has calming properties that support relaxation, making it a great addition to evening teas. Moreover, reishi is known for boosting the immune system, supporting heart health, and improving sleep quality.

Lion's Mane is a unique mushroom that resembles a lion’s mane with its long, cascading spines. This mushroom is renowned for its neuroprotective properties and ability to enhance cognitive function. Studies have shown that lion's mane may stimulate the growth of brain cells, improving memory and concentration. Including lion's mane in your tea can be a great way to support mental clarity and focus, making it an ideal choice for busy days or when you need a mental boost.

Cordyceps is another powerful mushroom that is often used to enhance energy and endurance. This adaptogenic mushroom has been shown to improve physical performance by increasing the body’s production of ATP, the molecule that provides energy to our cells. Cordyceps is also known for its ability to improve lung function and oxygen utilisation, making it a popular choice among athletes and those looking to boost their stamina.

Ashwagandha: The Stress-Busting Herb

Ashwagandha, also known as Indian ginseng, is a staple in Ayurvedic medicine. It is widely recognised for its adaptogenic properties, which help the body manage stress and restore balance. Regular consumption of ashwagandha can help reduce cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, leading to a calmer and more relaxed state of mind.

In addition to its stress-reducing benefits, ashwagandha has been shown to improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety, and enhance overall well-being. It may also support hormonal balance, particularly in women, by reducing symptoms of PMS and regulating menstrual cycles. Ashwagandha is a versatile herb that can be enjoyed in tea form, providing a natural way to unwind after a long day and promote a sense of calm.

Sceletium: The Mood-Enhancing Plant

Sceletium, also known as kanna, is a succulent plant native to South Africa that has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples for its mood-enhancing properties. It’s a natural serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI), meaning it helps increase serotonin levels in the brain, which can improve mood and reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. 

One of the unique aspects of sceletium is its ability to promote mental clarity and focus while simultaneously providing a sense of calm. This makes it an excellent ingredient for teas designed to enhance mental performance without the jittery effects of caffeine.

Sceletium may also support emotional well-being by helping to alleviate stress and anxiety, making it a valuable addition to any functional tea blend.