South African Teas: Next Generation Cosmeceuticals?

STELLENBOSCH, South Africa—Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis (Brum.F) Dahlg.) and honeybush (Cyclopia Vent. species) are popular indigenous South African herbal teas. Rooibos has traditionally been used for the alleviation of colic, allergies, asthma and dermatological problems; and a decoction of honeybush has been used as a restorative and expectorant in chronic catarrh and pulmonary turberculosis. Bush tree (Athrixia phylicoides DC.), another indigenous South African plant, has been locally used for boils, acne, infected wounds and throats.  

A review of these herbal teas published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology suggested more research is needed before these teas can be expanded into nutraceutical and cosmeceutical applications.

(Additional information available here.)

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