Ten Creative Ways to Use Rooibos in Everyday Life

Ten Creative Ways to Use Rooibos in Everyday Life

Rooibos, a uniquely South African herbal tisane, has long been cherished for its rich flavour and health benefits. While many enjoy it as a soothing beverage, Rooibos’ versatility extends far beyond the teacup. From enhancing beauty routines to elevating culinary creations, here are ten innovative ways to incorporate Rooibos into your daily life.​

1. Rooibos ice cubes: Brew a strong batch of Rooibos, let it cool, then pour it into an ice cube tray and freeze. These ice cubes can be used to:

• Cool down iced Rooibos, mocktails or cocktails without diluting the flavour.
• Rub on your face for a refreshing, antioxidant-rich skin treatment that helps reduce redness and inflammation.
• Add to smoothies for an extra health boost without watering them down.

2. Rooibos-based natural dye: Rooibos’ rich reddish-brown colour makes it a great natural dye for various applications:

• Fabric dye: Soak white or light-coloured fabrics in a strong Rooibos bath to achieve a warm, earthy hue. You can use this for DIY projects like dyeing tote bags, T-shirts or pillowcases.
• Easter egg dye: Instead of artificial dyes, steep eggs in strong Rooibos for a natural, subtle colour.
• Homemade paper dye: If you enjoy papermaking or crafting, brush Rooibos onto paper to give it an antique look.

3. Rooibos-infused cocktails and mocktails: Rooibos adds a unique flavour to beverages and pairs well with various ingredients:

• Rooibos gin fizz: Mix chilled Rooibos with gin, fresh lemon juice, honey and soda water for a refreshing cocktail.
• Rooibos Moscow mule: Use Rooibos instead of ginger beer for a twist on this classic drink.
• Rooibos mocktail: Mix Rooibos with orange juice, mint and sparkling water for a refreshing alcohol-free option.

4. DIY Rooibos lip balm: You can make a nourishing lip balm using Rooibos for its antioxidant properties. Here’s how:

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon beeswax
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon shea butter
• 1 teaspoon strong Rooibos

Method:

1. Melt the beeswax, coconut oil and shea butter in a double boiler.
2. Stir in the cooled, strong Rooibos.
3. Pour into small containers and let it set.

This lip balm helps keep lips hydrated and protects against environmental damage.

5. Rooibos bath bombs: Make homemade bath bombs using Rooibos for a relaxing and skin-nourishing soak.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup baking soda
• ½ cup citric acid
• ½ cup Epsom salt
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons dried Rooibos leaves
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 10 drops of essential oil (like lavender or vanilla)

Method:

1. Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl.
2. Add melted coconut oil and essential oil, stirring until it forms a crumbly texture.
3. Pack the mixture into moulds and let it dry for 24 hours before use.

Drop one into your bath for a spa-like experience.

6. Rooibos steam facial: A Rooibos facial steam can help open pores, clear congestion and refresh your skin.

How to do it:

1. Brew a strong batch of Rooibos and pour it into a large bowl.
2. Lean over the bowl, covering your head with a towel to trap the steam.
3. Inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes to cleanse your skin and sinuses.

This is especially helpful during cold and flu season!

7. Rooibos-infused chicken marinade: Give your chicken a unique, earthy flavour by using Rooibos as a base for your marinade.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup strong brewed Rooibos (cooled)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the Rooibos, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, honey and herbs.
2. Add chicken pieces and coat them thoroughly in the marinade.
3. Cover and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or overnight for deeper flavour).
4. Roast, grill or pan-fry the chicken as desired.

This marinade enhances the natural juiciness of the meat while infusing it with subtle Rooibos undertones.

8. Rooibos and strawberry chia pudding: This antioxidant-rich pudding is a delicious and nutritious dessert or breakfast option.

Ingredients:

• 500ml plain unsweetened double cream yoghurt
• 80ml chia seeds
• 50ml strong, cooled Rooibos 
• 1 cup blended strawberries
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

Method:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the yoghurt, chia seeds, and Rooibos.
2. Stir in the blended strawberries and honey (if using).
3. Pour the mixture into serving glasses or jars.
4. Let it set in the fridge for 30-45 minutes or overnight for a thicker consistency.
5. Garnish with fresh berries, nuts or coconut flakes before serving.

This creamy pudding is packed with fibre, protein and antioxidants, making it a guilt-free treat!

9. Rooibos-infused oatmeal: Upgrade your breakfast by cooking oatmeal with Rooibos instead of water or milk.

Recipe idea:

• 1 cup of strong brewed Rooibos
• ½ cup oats
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• A handful of nuts or berries for topping

This adds a subtle earthy sweetness and boosts your breakfast with antioxidants.

10. Rooibos fertiliser for plants: Instead of throwing away used Rooibos leaves or sachets, use them as a natural fertiliser. Rooibos is packed with nutrients that help enrich the soil.
Here are some ways to use Rooibos in the garden:

• Compost booster: Add used Rooibos leaves or sachets to your compost pile for extra organic matter.
• Soil enhancer: Sprinkle used, dried Rooibos leaves around plants to improve soil quality.
• Liquid fertiliser: Brew a weak batch of Rooibos, let it cool and use it to water plants.

This is especially beneficial for acid-loving plants like ferns, roses,and azaleas.

Incorporating Rooibos into various aspects of your daily routine can enhance your health, beauty and culinary experiences. Embrace these creative uses to fully appreciate the versatility of this remarkable herb.