Cocoa husks, also referred to as chocolate shells, are the outer thick layer of the fruit that protects the inner cocoa kernel, which is used for chocolate production. Cocoa husks, with their high fibre content, still retain nutrients such as B vitamins, iron, zinc, magnesium, and others, similar to chocolate but with much less sugar. Cocoa husks are a by-product of the harvest of cocoa kernels. These husks from Ethiopia are roasted and enjoyed as an infusion or as tea ingredients.

Digestive Support | Heart Health Booster | Mood Enhancer |
Mineral Richness | Vitamin B Powerhouse

Ancient Elixir to Modern Delight: Tracying the Journey

Cocoa husks have a rich history dating back centuries, prized by ancient civilizations like the Maya and Aztecs for their medicinal and culinary properties. Initially utilised in traditional beverages and sacred rituals, cocoa husks gained global recognition during the Age of Exploration. While cocoa beans dominated the chocolate industry, husks were often overlooked until their rediscovery in recent times. Today, cocoa husks are celebrated for their unique flavour and nutritional benefits, finding applications across various industries and emerging as a popular ingredient in caffeine-free tea blends.

In the realm of beverages, cocoa husks offer a delightful fusion of ancient tradition and modern indulgence. Appreciated for their subtle chocolatey taste and aromatic fragrance, cocoa husks provide a soothing alternative. With a rich history and unique flavour profile, cocoa husks have captured the attention of enthusiasts and health-conscious consumers alike, inviting them to savour the rich heritage of cocoa in a comforting brew.

Harnessing the Healing Power of Cocoa Husk

Discover the myriad medicinal benefits of cocoa husk, a treasure trove of wellness. Rich in antioxidants and dietary fibers, cocoa husk supports digestive health and fortifies the heart. Its mood-boosting properties offer tranquility, while its mineral bounty nourishes the body. Delve into the holistic healing offered by cocoa husk, a natural remedy for vitality and well-being.

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Liquorice, with its deep, earthy roots and vibrant green leaves, entices with its distinctively sweet and slightly tangy flavour. Nestled beneath the surface, the liquorice root exudes a rich aroma, inviting exploration into its hidden depths. Harvested with care, each root is selected at its peak ripeness, ensuring a premium quality that captivates the senses. Whether enjoyed as a soothing herbal infusion or a delectable confection, liquorice root offers a moment of indulgence, infusing every sip or bite with its timeless allure.

Soothes Digestive Discomfort | Supports Respiratory Health | Balances Hormones |

Anti-Inflammatory | Promotes Oral Health

Exploring the Enduring Legacy of Liquorice

Liquorice has a storied past that stretches back to ancient civilizations like Mesopotamia, China, and Greece, where its medicinal properties were highly prized. In traditional Chinese medicine, liquorice, known as “gan cao,” was valued for its harmonizing effects on herbal formulations and its ability to support respiratory health. Similarly, in ancient Greece, liquorice root was revered for its soothing properties, particularly in alleviating digestive discomforts. Over the centuries, liquorice has maintained its esteemed status as a versatile healing herb, with modern research continuing to validate its traditional uses.

Today, liquorice remains a beloved ingredient in both herbal medicine and culinary pursuits. Its distinctive flavor enhances a variety of dishes and confections, while its therapeutic benefits continue to be explored and appreciated. Additionally, liquorice is popular in tea blends, where it adds a unique sweetness and depth of flavour. From soothing sore throats to promoting digestive health, liquorice continues to enchant with its rich history and enduring appeal.

Harvesting the Healing Power of Liquorice

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Rosehips, the fruits of the rose plant, are typically round or oval in shape and range in size from small marbles to larger berries. They come in various colors when ripe, including red, orange, or black, depending on the species. The surface of the rosehip is usually smooth, but some varieties may have small prickles or hairs. Inside, rosehips contain numerous small seeds surrounded by fleshy pulp. These fruits typically ripen in late summer to early autumn, around September to October in temperate climates.

The name “rosehip” originates from the fact that these fruits are the seed pods or “hips” of the rose plant. A fun fact about rosehips is that they are one of the richest plant sources of vitamin C, containing even more of this essential nutrient than oranges. During World War II, rosehips were harvested and used to make rosehip syrup as a source of vitamin C when citrus fruits were scarce in Britain, contributing to their popularity as natural health supplements.

Boost Immune System | High Vitamin C | Rich Antioxidants |

Anti-Inflammatory | Supports Skin Health

Timeless beauty the hip elixir

Rosehip has a rich history spanning centuries and cultures, treasured for its nutritional and medicinal properties. Ancient civilizations from Europe to Asia recognized the benefits of rosehips, utilizing their high vitamin C content for various health remedies. During World War II, rosehips became particularly important in Britain when citrus fruits were scarce, leading to their widespread use as a source of vitamin C.

Over time, rosehips found their way into culinary traditions and herbal remedies. They were commonly used in jams, jellies, and syrups, as well as in herbal teas. Today, rosehip tea blends are enjoyed worldwide for their delicate flavour and numerous health benefits, representing a fusion of ancient wisdom and modern taste preferences.

Revealing Rosehip’s Medicinal Marvels

Rosehip, the fruit of the rose plant, isn’t just a treat for the taste buds; it’s also a powerhouse of health benefits. Packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds, rosehip offers a wide range of medicinal properties. Studies suggest that rosehip may help boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, improve joint health, support skin health, and even aid in weight management. Whether enjoyed as a tea, incorporated into skincare products, or taken as a supplement, rosehip provides a natural and holistic approach to enhancing overall health and well-being.

Image by Sonja Rieck from Pixabay

Image by Artur Pawlak from Pixabay

Chamomile, resembling a daisy with its radiant white petals and sunny yellow center, is prized for its calming essence and delicate, honey-like taste. Cultivated in sunny plantations, chamomile thrives in warm climates, flourishing in the gentle breezes of spring and summer. Harvested carefully during its peak season, chamomile blooms transform fields into a sea of white and gold, imbuing the air with their sweet fragrance. Revered as the ‘Liquid Gold of Egypt,’ this timeless tea offers a sensory journey, evoking images of tranquil landscapes and the ancient wisdom of herbal remedies.

Helps with sleep | Reduces Anxiety | Aids Digestion | Anti-Inflammatory | Caffeine-Free

a journey through time and tradtion

Chamomile boasts a rich history steeped in medicinal tradition, spanning thousands of years and continents. With roots tracing back to ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, chamomile’s healing properties have been revered across civilizations.

In ancient Egypt, it was prized for its use in embalming rituals and as a remedy for various ailments. Greeks and Romans revered chamomile for its ability to soothe digestive issues, calm the mind, and promote restful sleep.

Its name is derived from the Greek words ‘khamai,’ meaning ‘on the ground,’ and ‘melos,’ meaning ‘apple,’ a nod to its low-lying, apple-scented blooms. Chamomile’s journey through history is a testament to its enduring allure and therapeutic benefits, transcending time and culture to remain a cherished botanical treasure.

Unlocking the healing power of chamomile: Exploring its medicinal benefits

Chamomile, cherished for centuries for its calming aroma and delicate flavor, offers a treasure trove of health benefits. Renowned for its soothing properties, chamomile is celebrated for its ability to promote relaxation, aid digestion, and support overall well-being. From easing stress and anxiety to soothing digestive discomfort and promoting healthy skin, chamomile’s therapeutic effects have made it a beloved herbal remedy across cultures. Chamomile also helps with sleep, reducing anxiety and fostering a sense of calm. With its rich history and myriad of wellness benefits, chamomile continues to enchant and nurture, offering a natural solution for a range of health concerns.

Image by Ben Kerckx from Pixabay

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Image by zerin117 from Pixabay

Photo by Sonia Nadales on Unsplash

In the realm of South African tea history, Nigiro’s Honeybush tea stands as a remarkable tale—one that embodies the serendipity often found in the narratives of this land. “I know a friend who knows a friend,” Mingwei remarked with a smile, reflecting on his first encounter with honeybush tea in the heart of South Africa.

Tea-connection: Land, tea and people

Back in 2015, Mingwei embarked on a journey that led him to the Eastern Cape Provinces, a place now synonymous with his tea venture. This region, now known for its connection to Nigiro’s tea ambition, initially held a quieter place in the world’s tea consciousness. What set this place apart was not only the tea it nurtured but also the strong bonds formed with local farm owners who shared an unwavering affection for honeybush.

At Nigiro, our mission is clear—popularizing honeybush tea among the public. It’s not just about celebrating its unique origin, distinctive taste, and health benefits; it’s a profound commitment to nurturing our environment and fostering awareness about ethical farming practices that revolve around the well-being of our South African farming community.

And so, with each cup of Nigiro’s Honeybush tea, we honor this commitment. As our founder fondly recalls, this journey was destined, and it continues to be driven by love—for the land, the tea, and the people who cultivate it.

Our honeybush tea research and development trial block

Cyclopia intermedia in flower

Honeybush tea before bed can be your ticket to a good night’s sleep.
Photo by Ann Danilina on Unsplash

Step-By-Step Brewing Guide: Brewing Your Honeybush Tea

Okay, now that you’re all excited to give Honeybush a try, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of brewing the perfect cup. Here’s how you do it:

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon of Honeybush tea leaves (or a tea bag)
• 8 ounces of freshly boiled water

Instructions

1. Boil the water and let it cool for a minute or two. You don’t want to scorch the delicate Honeybush leaves.
2. Place the Honeybush tea leaves or tea bag in your favourite cup or teapot.
3. Pour the hot water over the tea leaves or tea bag.
4. Allow it to infuse for a duration of 5 to 7 minutes, enabling the full blossoming of its delightful flavours.
5. You can enjoy it as is or add a touch of honey for an extra layer of sweetness.

Okay, now that you’re all excited to give Honeybush a try, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of brewing the perfect cup. Here’s how you do it:

Tea-Experience: A Breathtaking Journey

So, there you have it – the lowdown on Honeybush tea. It’s not just a delicious drink; it’s a companion on your journey to wellness. The sweet, nutty flavour and the array of health benefits make it a top pick for any tea lover.

Where to Find Honeybush Tea

If the wholesome qualities of honeybush tea entice you, you might be wondering where to find this remarkable brew. Look no further than our curated honeybush tea collection. We take pride in sourcing the finest honeybush tea to offer you the most authentic South African experience. Our collection features a variety of honeybush blends, each with its own distinct character. Our selection caters to every palate, from pure honeybush for the purists to enticing flavoured infusions. Explore the world of honeybush tea with us and savour the natural flavours of South Africa.

Nigiro’s Commitment to Sustainable Honeybush Farming

At Nigiro, we are deeply committed to sustainable farming practices. Our Honeybush partners share our dedication to regenerative agriculture, working hand in hand with producers to revitalize their soils and uplift local economies. Our Honeybush is sourced through regenerative cultivation and sustainable wild harvesting, ensuring 100% traceability throughout the process. We adhere to recognized certification standards such as Organic and Regenerative Organic, drawing inspiration from the ethical principles set forth by organizations like the Union for Ethical Biotrade, Commonland, and FairWild.

So, when you savour the robust fragrance of a freshly brewed cup of our Honeybush tea, you’re not just enjoying a delightful sip; you’re also experiencing the peace and harmony that our dedicated team has cultivated.

For Relaxation

If you’re looking to relax, opt for a calming herbal infusion:

For Refreshing and Energising

If you seek a refreshing and energising cup, explore our citrus or berry-infused blends. Your perfect honeybush tea is just a sip away:

A cup of Nigiro freshly brewed honeybush tea turns your bedtime into a tranquil experience.

Nigiro, a beloved name in the world of premium tea in South Africa, has always been synonymous with knowledge, wisdom, and the art of tea-making. For those of you who have had the pleasure of visiting our cherished tea cafe, you’ll understand the warmth and magic that the Nigiro family infuses into their brand. It’s a place where delectable cuisine, exquisite tea-tasting, and an ambiance of pure tranquility come together seamlessly. Today, I’m delighted to introduce you to someone who is not only an integral part of the Nigiro legacy but also the heart and soul of our tea training – Mingwei Tsai.

O’ways: How did you become interested in tea?

Mingwei: From a young age, I always enjoyed drinking tea with old people. The connection was the stories that people had. I really was drawn to the stories, and tea was just a platform where the stories were shared. We have a lot of opportunities to drink tea, but in these modern days, we don’t take those opportunities, and we let those opportunities slip. We often reflect and think, “Oh, I should have had a cup of tea with this person, or I should have communicated more”.

O’ways: Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background?

Mingwei: I came to South Africa 34 years ago, at the age of 12. My parents somehow convinced my uncle to emigrate from Taiwan to South Africa to study English. But little did I know that Braamfontein, wasn’t an English-speaking city. It is one of the most Afrikaans cities in South Africa. Nevertheless, I was there. My teachers at that time completely changed me. I was not really keen to study. I enjoyed my tea, but I didn”t enjoy studying at all. Later on, I changed, and I started really focusing on my academics.

Step 3. “Sometimes, it can turn our world upside down…”

O’ways: How does it impact the prestige attendant to the hotels through the tea?

We are a very small family-run boutique tea company in South Africa. We target hotels and restaurants that want to transform. We don’t just sell them tea. We provide the service, we provide the connection, we are part of this intricate wheel of transformation that transformed the beverage industry, the beverage sector.

I believe that happy cups become happy people. So I’m sure they are happy, and I’m sure they are connected, and they’re connecting with more people.

O’ways: How has being a part of our tea community impacted your life or tea journey?

Tea sharing with the tea community gets me to know more about tea. It broadens my perspective of tea because of the exclusive blending job that I do as well as the services provided. It gets me out of my comfort zone and considers ingredients that I would never otherwise consider if I were to drink tea by myself.

So I am shaped by the tea community and in return, I also have the opportunity to shape the tea community that has a great affinity with me.

Never forget to share that tea with others, with your friends, your loved ones, and your enemy. – Mingwei Tsai

Thirsty?

Make a reservation and experience Mingwei’s tea tasting.

We, humans, have a special relationship with smoke. I’ve been curious about the idea of “smoke” since I was a young boy. Why do we humans have smokey places? Why is there always smoke in the temple? Why do people smoke? As I matured and experienced life, I also discovered that culinary artists love “smoking” their food and drinks. Why are we humans fascinated by smoked stuff? If you are looking for answers to the questions above, I have to apologize for your disappointment in advance, but if you are as interested in the idea of smoke as I am, I invite you to join us on a small category-scented tea adventure – Smoked Tea.

Smoke is often used in religious and spiritual rituals; the indigenous peoples around the world such as First Nation, India, and the Chinese use smoke to cleanse the energy of a body or object such as a house. Another urban legend is that hunter-gatherers use smoke to mark their territory, letting surrounding animals know that humans are occupying the area. Our relationship with the scent of smoke is deeply rooted in our culture, and genetically it has a significant role in our history of evolution. As our boss lady Lisa puts it, smoked scented tea is like coriander. It’s an extreme preference. “Some people love it, and some people frown upon it.” The smoked scent adds an extra layer to the tea, and almost all smoke-scented tea is black tea, as the heaviness of smoke pairs well with the full-bodied black tea.

The smoky souchong tea sold and the Dutch returned to request more.

Photo by Austin Neill on Unsplash

Photo by Nanna Moilanen on Unsplash

Photo by Nanna Moilanen on Unsplash

Show your special ones how they are on your mind by choosing or customising a tea that is infused with their favourite flavour. Smoke- scented tea might just do the trick. 

This National Women’s Month, we honour the strength and grace of South African women with a thoughtfully curated tea collection designed to nurture your well-being.

• For BEAUTY: Unveil Your Beauty: Indulge in the rejuvenating powers of our Blue Horizon Green Tea. Packed with antioxidants, this blend supports your radiant glow while countering the effects of aging.
• For WARMTH: Embrace Tranquility: Find solace in the delicate embrace of our Rose Congou Black Tea. Let its soothing essence wash over you, calming your senses and inviting serenity into your daily routine.
• For HEALING: Healing From Within: Harness the natural healing properties of Hibiscus Petals. Known for alleviating bladder discomfort, this infusion is a gentle and holistic approach to your wellness journey.
• For RELAXATION: Restful Nights Await: Experience the restorative magic of our Snow Mountain Chrysanthemum Flower Tea. Drift into peaceful slumber as it lulls you into a state of relaxation, ensuring you wake up rejuvenated.
• For DETOX: Detox and Revitalize: Embrace the cleansing power of Pu’erh Tea. Kickstart your journey to weight maintenance and renewed vitality with this age-old remedy for detoxification.

What is the soul of a tea cafe? If it is a tea house, then I reckon you would say “tea!”  As you might already be aware, in O’ways, we are always innovating, so we are a tea cafe and cafe, and we have no shortage of food. Our food is special because our recipes are uniquely co-created across continents. Every item on our menu is a cross-culture creation from our Bosslady Lisa and our team of chefs.  If your mouth is already watering, then I have to apologise in advance. We are not revealing any of our secret recipes today. Instead, I am introducing you to the man who poured his soul into the plate of art in front of you – our chef, William.

O’ways: Who are you?

Willam: My name is William Phiri, I am a chef at Nigiro’s O’ways tea cafe. Originally I’m from Nkhata Bay in the northern region of Malawi. I am from the Tonga Tribe, and we like farming and fishing as we live close to Lake Malawi, which is a well-known tourist attraction.

O’ways: When did you start cooking?

William: Oh, good question. I started cooking in 2009, which was just after I had finished secondary school. I was looking for a peaceful work environment and ended up in a shop with a takeaway station where we could cook only two meals, chips and chicken and, rice and chicken. We had only two pieces of equipment – a microwave and a deep fryer –  so we could make the chicken and the chips in the fryer and the rice in the microwave. So that’s when I started cooking. And from there, after I left the shop, I went to the Chintheche Inn.  First, I worked in the garden, where vegetables, herbs and spices were grown. So maybe that’s where my interest in cooking came from. Later I trained through Kingsway College and, in 2015, received my certificate in cooking.

For the full recipe, check out our Flavour article.

O’ways: How did you become interested in tea?

William: One day, when I was at the Claremont branch of O’ways, Mingwei (the owner) was doing the tea tasting. He asked the students at the table,  “Do you know what white tea is?” I was curious about the same question and could partly overhear the conversation from the kitchen, but the only bit I picked up was that white tea isn’t the tea with milk. We know that adding milk to black tea changes the colour. It becomes white. Doesn’t that make a tea white tea? What is he trying to say? I caught only this. “White tea is not the tea with milk.”  Haha. Since then I have learnt to identify the different teas, I tried hundred of them.

O’ways: How did you become interested in tea?

William: The very first time we did that was with soup; mushroom soup infused with black tea. It was weird because the black tea and mushroom soup together became black. I enjoyed making that but I like to eat food the way it is. For example, when I eat vegetables, I don’t like to add a sauce. I just add salt. So it was very surprising for me.

O’ways: If someone has never been to O’ways before, and they come here for the food, what would you recommend?

William: Okay, I’ll recommend something which is more familiar. Dan Ping is one of the staples of the restaurant. It has been on the menu since the first day our restaurant opened. I believe it is a Taiwanese classic. And a final note to the reader: Prepare for a taste bud adventure. Our Dan Ping is an omelette with a pancake base (not gluten-free). Firstly, there are generous amounts of egg and milk in the pancake base, which we fill with mushrooms. It is then wrapped with omelette (more eggs). Finally, we top it with ginger and teriyaki. Enjoy! 

Mouth watery?

Make a reservation and experience William’s creations!

This National Women’s Month, we honour the strength and grace of South African women with a thoughtfully curated tea collection designed to nurture your well-being.

• For BEAUTY: Unveil Your Beauty: Indulge in the rejuvenating powers of our Blue Horizon Green Tea. Packed with antioxidants, this blend supports your radiant glow while countering the effects of aging.
• For WARMTH: Embrace Tranquility: Find solace in the delicate embrace of our Rose Congou Black Tea. Let its soothing essence wash over you, calming your senses and inviting serenity into your daily routine.
• For HEALING: Healing From Within: Harness the natural healing properties of Hibiscus Petals. Known for alleviating bladder discomfort, this infusion is a gentle and holistic approach to your wellness journey.
• For RELAXATION: Restful Nights Await: Experience the restorative magic of our Snow Mountain Chrysanthemum Flower Tea. Drift into peaceful slumber as it lulls you into a state of relaxation, ensuring you wake up rejuvenated.
• For DETOX: Detox and Revitalize: Embrace the cleansing power of Pu’erh Tea. Kickstart your journey to weight maintenance and renewed vitality with this age-old remedy for detoxification.

This National Women’s Month, we honour the strength and grace of South African women with a thoughtfully curated tea collection designed to nurture your well-being.

• For BEAUTY: Unveil Your Beauty: Indulge in the rejuvenating powers of our Blue Horizon Green Tea. Packed with antioxidants, this blend supports your radiant glow while countering the effects of aging.
• For WARMTH: Embrace Tranquility: Find solace in the delicate embrace of our Rose Congou Black Tea. Let its soothing essence wash over you, calming your senses and inviting serenity into your daily routine.
• For HEALING: Healing From Within: Harness the natural healing properties of Hibiscus Petals. Known for alleviating bladder discomfort, this infusion is a gentle and holistic approach to your wellness journey.
• For RELAXATION: Restful Nights Await: Experience the restorative magic of our Snow Mountain Chrysanthemum Flower Tea. Drift into peaceful slumber as it lulls you into a state of relaxation, ensuring you wake up rejuvenated.
• For DETOX: Detox and Revitalize: Embrace the cleansing power of Pu’erh Tea. Kickstart your journey to weight maintenance and renewed vitality with this age-old remedy for detoxification.