Tee Ya Bophelo – TEa of Life

Tee Ya Bophelo (Sesotho for Tea of Life) is a traditional herbal blend made from flowers, leaves and spices long valued in African and global herbal traditions.

This blend was first prepared within our family while supporting my mother during her recovery after a stroke. Over the years it has become part of our daily wellness routine and a symbol of care, resilience and faith.

The ingredients are natural herbs that many of us grew up with — some gathered from gardens, others from markets and spice traditions. Each plant brings its own character and traditional benefits.

Good health begins with the knowledge of natural herbs.

Ingredients and Traditional Herbal Benefits

Ingredient

Traditional Uses & Community Knowledge

Notes

Rosella Hibiscus

Traditionally associated with supporting heart health and healthy blood pressure. Many communities also drink hibiscus infusions for urinary tract comfort.

Rich in antioxidants and gives the tea its vibrant colour and refreshing flavour.

Marigold (Calendula)

Traditionally used to support skin health and eye wellness. In many herbal traditions marigold flowers are associated with supporting vision and eye comfort.

Known for soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

Fennel Leaves

Traditionally used to support digestion and relaxation. Some people find fennel tea calming and helpful for unwinding before sleep.

Gentle herbal aroma with mild sweetness.

Cloves

Traditionally valued for antimicrobial properties and digestive support.

Adds warmth and spice to the blend.

Purslane

A nutrient-rich traditional plant eaten as salad greens in many communities. Known to contain omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.

Historically associated with supporting heart and metabolic health.

Thyme

Traditionally used to support respiratory health and immune strength.

Also known for natural antimicrobial properties.

Ginger

Widely used to support digestion, circulation and immune function.

Adds warmth and helps the body feel energized.

Turmeric

Known in many traditional systems for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Contains the active compound curcumin.

Black Pepper

Traditionally used to stimulate digestion and improve nutrient absorption.

Especially enhances absorption of turmeric compounds.

Cinnamon

Traditionally associated with supporting circulation and balanced blood sugar.

Adds natural sweetness and warmth.

Mint

Traditionally used for digestive comfort and refreshing the body.

Provides a cooling finish to the tea.

Herbal Synergy – Why Some Herbs Work Better Together

Traditional herbal blending often pairs ingredients that enhance each other’s effects.

Pairing

Traditional Benefit

Turmeric + Black Pepper

Black pepper contains piperine which significantly improves the body’s ability to absorb turmeric’s beneficial compounds.

Ginger + Cinnamon

Together they help warm the body and support circulation and digestion.

Hibiscus + Purslane

Both plants are rich in antioxidants traditionally associated with cardiovascular wellness.

Fennel + Mint

A gentle pairing known for digestive comfort and relaxation.

Thyme + Cloves

Traditionally valued for their natural antimicrobial properties.

A Family Story

This tea holds special meaning in our home. When my mother suffered a stroke several years ago, our family turned again to the herbs we grew up with.

Since then, she has enjoyed this blend regularly as part of her daily routine. Over time it has become more than just a tea — it is a reminder of the strength of faith, family care and traditional knowledge.

Today Tee Ya Bophelo is shared with friends and community as a symbol of wellbeing and connection.

How to Enjoy Tee Ya Bophelo

1 teaspoon of the herbal blend
1 cup of hot water
Steep for 5–7 minutes

Drink warm and enjoy the natural flavour of the herbs.

“Good health begins with the knowledge of natural herbs.”

Special acknowledgemeng of my teachers who taught me about herbs:

Nkgono Mambele (my nanny and house helper of over 30 years, she was my first teacher of herbs, we would go to the veld and pick up thepe, seruwe, leshwabe, sereledi, lengana, legala,  phefo, tlou etc.

Nkgono Madamane (mom in love) who taught me the names and uses of many more herb over and above the ones mentioned above.

Ntatemoholo Motete Moletsane who made me realise I have a gift of being a farmacist, growing and using traditional plants and herbs.