As part of her foray into the beauty and skincare industry, a Nsikazi woman manufactures products using impepho – also known colloquially as African sage or incense.

Busisiwe Nkambule established Impepho Essentials in March 2024 and manufactures the products using this healing herb as the main ingredient.
It is widely used in the country as a ritual incense to invoke ancestors, cleanse negative energy and banish evil spirits.

“Impepho Essentials was born out of a passion for natural wellness products. I just want to promote holistic health, and using natural ingredients reflects a growing trend toward sustainable and mindful living,” Nkambule said.

Impepho has many medicinal benefits that she is taking advantage of. The properties of the plant include antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Some people use it for respiratory issues, fever and as remedy for various other ailments.

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Her cultural background is a major reason that she has chosen this trade. Being part of a community that values and utilises traditional practices, interacting with people who know the historical use of impepho, and doing thorough research and study surrounding traditional herbal medicine and ethnobotany, are all factors that have influenced the progression of her business.

Nkambule said she has read many books that recorded the studies of impepho before developing her products.

Nkambule currently manufactures her products at home using the best quality impepho, harvested from its natural habitat. Processing includes drying and extraction for distillation for essential oils; infusion, for use in balms and creams; and powdering for herbal teas or dietary supplements. She creates formulations that vary based on intended use and packaging.

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The Impepho Essentials’ product range includes balms, essential oils, serums, soaps, creams, bath bombs, salts and herbal teas.

“I get my impepho from local harvesters, because Pienaar is a place known for its rich natural resources and cultural heritage.”

Nkambule said she hopes to create job opportunities for locals and have her own farm to grow high-quality impepho.