Millions of South Africans have been enjoying Rooibos tea for centuries.

Its benefits range from heart health to improved digestion. Many people do not realise how versatile the herb is, and with the holidays fast approaching, it is worth incorporating Rooibos as an alternative product.

This will help save money and reduce waste for a positive environmental impact.

Candice Sessions, Laager Rooibos Marketing Manager, says Rooibos has long been celebrated for its health benefits, and with just a few simple tricks, Rooibos can replace several store-bought items, making it a cost-effective and eco-friendly addition to the everyday household.

Here are six ways, Olivia Jones Communications believes, Rooibos can be used to save money and reduce waste:

1. Homemade iced tea
Brew a jug of Rooibos iced tea at home. Add lemon, mint, and seasonal fruits for a refreshing caffeine-free alternative.

2. Rooibos in the garden
Rooibos is a natural fertiliser and mulch. The tea leaves enrich the soil with nutrients and help retain moisturise. This saves on water and the need for costly fertilisers. Sprinkle Rooibos tea leaves around your plants or add them to the compost pile.

3. A relaxing Rooibos bath
Replace your ordinary bath with a hydrated Rooibos bath by soaking Rooibos tea bags in hot water. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help to calm skin irritations, leaving the skin soft and nourished.

4. A Rooibos skin scrub
To exfoliate your skin at a low cost, mix Rooibos with sugar and a little coconut oil for gentle exfoliation. Rooibos’ antibacterial qualities help fight skin irritations.

5. Rooibos after-sun
During summertime, it is very important to put on sunscreen. Apply a cooled Rooibos tea rinse to sun-exposed skin, for it will help with redness, dehydration, and will reduce the risk of long-term sun damage. Rooibos is packed with antioxidants to help with sun damage and soothe inflammation caused by UV exposure.

6. Rooibos for pets
Rooibos is good for pets, too. Rinse your pet’s itchy skin, irritated paws, and flea bites. Add Rooibos to their water or food, for it helps to boost their digestion and immunity.

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