Rooibos

    Grown exclusively in the Cedarburg Mountains of South Africa, rooibos has been gaining popularity. Often identified as “red tea”, the leaves of the rooibos bush are harvested, chopped, wetted, and left to ferment in heaps then dried in the sun, a process that changes the previously green leaves to the stunning red color that we witness in our teapots.

    Reputed to help in cases of hay fever, asthma, allergies, insomnia, infant colic, and stomach upsets, rooibos is caffeine-free. Try rooibos topically for the healing of acne, eczema, diaper rash, and even for stubborn case of infant cradle cap. Rooibos contain flavonoids, which are free-radical-fighting antioxidants that are also found in green tea. However, the flavonoids in rooibos are said to be far more effective than those in green tea, which, combined with its caffeine-free status, makes rooibos a healthy tea worth keeping in the cupboard.

Please click in the labels below for more fruits and vegetables with related medicinal benefits.

Horehound Tea

            The leaves of this herb of the mint family are covered with a white hoary felt – hence its popular name, horehound. The bitter, spicy leaves have long been used as a remedy for colds, coughs, and asthmatic conditions. Strong infusions of this herbal tea are diuretic and laxative – so if it’s a cold you have, don’t make the tea too strong. For coughs – both child and adult – steep a tablespoon of crushed horehound leaves in 2 cups boiling water for 20 minutes; add honey and take as needed.

            Horehound candy is good for scratchy throats. Make certain, however, to purchase it sweetened with honey rather than sugar.