Engozi Tea

The Orange Bird Berry (Hoslundia opposita) is a robust, evergreen shrub that typically reaches up to two meters tall. It is distinguished by its oval, opposite leaves and clusters of small, vibrant orange berries. Native to tropical regions of Africa, it flourishes along riverbanks, forest edges, and open woodlands. Traditionally valued for its medicinal versatility, the plant has been used to address a variety of health concerns, particularly minor pain, skin complaints, and respiratory issues. Its bioactive compounds—notably flavonoids, terpenoids, and alkaloids—are known for their roles in supporting the body’s natural defense systems, encouraging wound healing, and soothing inflammation, making it a respected plant in herbal medicine.

Bidens pilosa (Bidens pilosa L.) is a hardy, annual herb recognized by its slender, angular stems and bright, daisy-like yellow blossoms. Leaves are deeply lobed and green, narrowing toward the tips. This adaptable plant thrives in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, often spreading across open fields and roadsides. Traditionally, Bidens pilosa has been valued for its ability to address minor wounds, infections, digestive issues, and inflammation. Its leaves and aerial parts offer a rich variety of bioactive constituents, notably flavonoids and phenolic acids, lending the plant impressive antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immune-supporting properties. Many cultures utilize Bidens pilosa for its broad therapeutic benefits, earning it a respected place in natural medicine.

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) is a small, creeping herb native to Asia, especially India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia. It thrives in moist, tropical environments and is recognized by its rounded, fan-shaped leaves. Gotu Kola is often referred to as “the herb of longevity” and has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic, Chinese, and traditional Southeast Asian medicine.

Harvesting involves collecting the aerial parts—mainly the leaves and stems—once the plant has matured, usually several times a year. Harvesting is done by hand to preserve the delicate leaves, which are then washed and dried or used fresh, depending on their purpose.

As a spice, Gotu Kola is not pungent like culinary spices but is used as a leafy green or herb in salads, chutneys, and herbal teas, especially in Sri Lankan and Indonesian cuisine. Its mild, slightly bitter taste complements fresh and cooked dishes.

Medicinally, Gotu Kola is prized for its broad healing properties. It is used to:

• Promote cognitive function and memory
• Support wound healing and skin health
• Reduce anxiety and stress
• Improve circulation and strengthen blood vessels
• Support detoxification and liver health
• Treat minor burns, scars, and skin irritations when applied topically

Vernonia grantii is a species of the Vernonia genus, part of the Asteraceae (daisy) family, and is native to parts of tropical Africa. It is a leafy, shrubby plant often found in forested or savanna regions. Like other Vernonia species (such as Vernonia amygdalina, commonly known as bitter leaf), V. grantii is known for its bitter taste and is used in both traditional cuisine and medicine.

Harvesting typically involves collecting the leaves and sometimes the stems. The leaves are harvested by hand, either fresh or after partial drying, and are used directly or processed (pounded, boiled, or dried) depending on the intended use.

As a spice, Vernonia grantii is not a spice in the conventional sense but is used in cooking for its distinctive bitter flavor. The leaves may be boiled to reduce bitterness and are often included in traditional soups and stews, especially in West and Central African cuisine.

Medicinally, Vernonia grantii is used in traditional herbal medicine to:

• Treat fevers and malaria-like symptoms
• Aid digestion and relieve gastrointestinal issues
• Support liver function
• Act as a general detoxifying agent
• Reduce inflammation and support immune health