WHAT IS FYNBOS? The name originates from an Old Dutch word: ‘fine bush’. It refers not to one but to all the plants associated with the mountains of South Africa’s Cape region. It’s like saying ‘tropical forest’ or ‘savannah’ – a vegetation type in other words.

 Commonly known as "Imphepho", Silver Everlasting or Liqorice plant. "Spathulenol, one of the major monoterpenes identified in the extract of H. petiolare, has been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities. It has also been reported to inhibit the growth of Stapylococcus aureus and Proteus mirabili which are the major bacteria implicated in skin diseases" "The findings reveal the presence of various bioactive compounds and validated the earlier reports of therapeutic importance of these plants in the treatment of skin-related diseases. It is strongly recommended that these medicinal plants need further research in the field of natural products to isolate, purity, and characterize bioactive molecules to develop a safety and effective plant-based natural drug for the treatment of various skin ailment" Sagbo, Otang-Mbeng et al, University of Fort Hare, September 2019 

Common names: Golden carpet.

Helichrysum cymosum is the most colourful and abundant of the Helichrysum family. H. cymosum has traditionally been used as a perfume and for treating various ailments. Cymene and Ocymene is responsible for the sweet, floral and green flavour.

Alpha Pinene is antimicrobial, anticoagulant, antimalarial and Eucalyptol which is effective against respiratory disease. Caryophyllene is classed as an atypical cannaboid which is used in treating inflammation, pain & osteoporosis.

Commonly known as “African Immortelle

Helichrysum odoratissimum, also known as African Immortelle, is a perennial herb. The plant has a silver appearance and bears pale golden-yellow flowers. It is abundant throughout Southern Africa, where it is one of the most popular traditional remedies.

Helicrysum odoratissimum is of great cultural significance in South Africa. The aerial parts are burnt to rebuke evil spirits, or inhaled as a steam to attract good luck. Medicinal uses include the treatment of heart diseases, relief of chest pains, and for calming. Furthermore, H. odoratissimum is used to treat coughs, fever and irinary tract infections, suggesting that it possesses antimicrobial properties. Helichrysum odoratissimum is one of the most frequently harvested and traded plants in South Africa.

Commonly known as Yellow Everlasting. The leaves of Helichrysum foetidum are said to make an excellent dressing for a festering sore and are used as a wound dressing. The plant is also used traditionally by some young girls to relieve menstrual pains. In East Africa the roots are used for eye complaints and the leaves for influenza. Studies of the essential oil of H. foetidum has indicated that it has a very high concentration of Sabinene and Viridifloral. "Sabinene is also found in a variety of spices, such as nutmeg, basil, marjoram, cloves, and cardamom. As a monoterpene, it is used in aromatherapy but equally used as flavourings in food or fragrance manufacturing. Sabinene has been studied for its implications in soothing problematic skin conditions, relieving arthritis pain, and aiding digestion. Sabinene has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties."
SourceL Labeffects website

Details

 Commonly known as Cape Peppermint Geranium. Our essential oil of P. tomentosum has been analysed by KQATSA Analytical and Consulting Scientists. The results have shown that more than 80% of the oil consists of Menthone and isomenthone, which is reported to provide respiratory relief, act as an appetite suppressant, improve athletic performance and improves digestion. The oil also contains Limonene, which is also reported to be used in treating chest ailments, such as bronchitis. Full GC/MS analysis available upon request