Swap the alcohol for something ‘to-tea-lly’ awesome

Next to water, tea is the most widely consumed beverage in the world and can be enjoyed anywhere, anytime. In fact, on any given day, around two billion people sip on the brew.

Homegrown rooibos tea, known for its abundant health benefits, is a firm favourite among South Africans and tea connoisseurs the world-over. It can be enjoyed in a myriad of ways – hot or cold – and is becoming very popular in wine, gin, vodka, cider and cocktails. It is used as a flavour-enhancer in yoghurt, ice-creams, syrups and sauces.

It is also considered as an essential ingredient in beauty products and can be found in age-defying skin creams, cosmetics, shampoos, soaps and fragrances, and comes in countless still and sparkling iced tea varieties.

According to Ernest du Toit, director of the SA Rooibos Council, rooibos tea, which is exclusively grown in the Cederberg region, is becoming one of the fastest-growing beverages in the drinks market globally.

“Worldwide consumption of rooibos is at around 15 000 tons per annum and the growing demand for the product has pushed exports up to more than 7 000 tons per year,” said Du Toit.

“If both export and local volumes were sold and enjoyed as pure rooibos, it would equate to roughly six billion cups of rooibos tea per annum.”

South Africa exports rooibos tea to over 30 countries, including Germany, the Netherlands, Japan, the United Kingdom and the States. Germany still remains by far the biggest importer of rooibos tea, at 31 per cent, with the Netherlands at 16 per cent and Japan at 15 per cent.

Whether you’ll be throwing a bash or celebrating the festivities of the festive season, try any of a number great ideas to make the day ‘to-tea-lly’ awesome.

Share why you enjoy Rooibos in the comments section below