Walk into any supermarket today, and it’s evident there’s a subtle but significant shift in the modern tea aisle. This is no longer just a place for everyday beverages; it’s becoming a wellness destination as more South Africans turn to natural, affordable ways to support their health.
With rising healthcare costs and increasing awareness around lifestyle-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and stress-related disorders, consumers are looking to take a more proactive approach to their health. Tea, with its accessibility and versatility, is helping to meet that need.
“Tea has always been part of our daily routines, but we’re seeing a shift in how people choose it,” explains Mbali Mapholi, Specialist Dietitian and Laager and Tetley Partner. “Consumers are becoming more intentional, selecting teas not just for taste, but for the functional benefits they offer, such as supporting sleep, heart health, digestion, immunity or mental clarity.”
Tea is Not ‘Just Tea’ Anymore
Mbali says tea is part of many cultural traditions, but we’re seeing different teas increasingly being used to support specific aspects of wellbeing.
“Tea holds a unique advantage in that it’s already embedded in South African culture,” says Mbali. “This makes it easier for consumers to adopt healthier habits without major lifestyle changes. In addition to being a comforting routine, a simple cup of tea can help with daily hydration, stress relief, and even connection when enjoyed with others.
She explained that the power of tea as a health-boosting remedy lies in its simplicity: “It’s not about replacing medical treatment, but about supporting prevention through small, consistent choices. Various tea types assist with different aspects of health, so it’s about finding the right balance for you.”
1. Green Tea
Green tea has been shown to boost metabolism, contains antioxidants to promote cellular repair, and may help to support heart health and cognitive function while assisting with lowering blood sugar.
2. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile is known to encourage relaxation, stress relief and improved sleep. This is linked to enhanced mood and productivity when benefitting from better sleep.
3. Rooibos Tea
Rooibos is a naturally caffeine-free, antioxidant-rich daily staple that has several health benefits. These include lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes, supporting heart health, reducing inflammation and supporting skin health. Laager is the only Rooibos tea bag endorsed by the Heart & Stroke Foundation SA.
4. Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea is known to soothe digestive issues like bloating and indigestion, as well as ease headaches. It also offers antibacterial properties that freshen breath.
Tea Products with Purpose
Mbali has shared some of her preferred tea options along with the associated health benefits:
- Ginger-infused blends like Laager Citrus & Ginger flavoured Rooibos for digestive comfort.
- Calming options like Laager Mint flavoured Rooibos & Chamomile or Tetley Pure Chamomile to unwind.
- Fruit-forward blends such as Laager Cranberry & Wild Cherry flavoured Rooibos for refreshing hydration (also great chilled as an iced tea).
- Antioxidant-rich options like Tetley Pure Green Tea for daily wellness support.
- Vitamin C-enriched teas like Tetley Peach & Orange Green Tea during cold and flu season.
- Immunity-supporting teas, such as Laager Tea4Kidz+ variants with added Vitamin C, for the kids.
“The trends we are seeing in the tea aisle show how tea is adapting to modern lifestyles. People want convenience, but they also want their daily habits to contribute to their overall wellbeing,” says Mbali. “Even traditional favourites like Laager Rooibos and Tetley Premium Blend Black Tea are now seen as part of a broader health-supporting routine”.
Mbali added that, while tea offers a wide range of natural benefits, it’s important to remember that it complements, rather than replaces, professional medical care: “Persistent symptoms or health concerns should always be addressed with a healthcare provider.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which brands are made by Joekels?
Joekels produces and distributes several well-known South African beverage brands, including Tetley, Laager Rooibos, Tea4Kidz, and Society Coffee. These brands cater to a wide range of tastes and wellness needs, from everyday tea drinking to functional and family-focused options.
2. Why is tea increasingly seen as a wellness product?
Tea contains natural compounds such as antioxidants, flavonoids and polyphenols that support various aspects of health, including heart health, digestion, and relaxation. As consumers become more health-conscious, tea offers an easy, affordable way to incorporate these benefits into daily routines.
3. What teas are best for health and wellness?
Several teas offer proven health benefits. Rooibos tea, such as Laager Rooibos, is naturally caffeine-free and rich in antioxidants that support heart health, digestion and overall wellness. Tetley Green Tea contains catechins that help protect cells, support metabolism and boost immunity. Black tea, like Tetley Premium Blend, provides flavonoids that contribute to cardiovascular health while offering a gentle energy lift. For relaxation and better sleep, Tetley Pure Chamomile is recognised for its calming properties.
Keep Updated and Find Out More
Tetley and Laager Rooibos can be purchased from all major supermarkets, as well as online. Find out more about the products, including health tips and Rooibos-infused recipes:
- Website: www.joekels.co.za
- Laager Facebook and Instagram: @LaagerRooibosTea
- Mbali Mapholi Instagram: @UrbanDieititan
- Tetley Facebook and Instagram: @TetleyTeaSA
About Laager Rooibos and Tetley
Laager Rooibos is a naturally caffeine-free beverage with numerous health benefits, including antioxidant properties, cardiovascular support, and potential benefits for blood sugar and allergies. Laager is the only Rooibos tea bag endorsed by the Heart & Stroke Foundation SA and caters for the whole family with Pure Rooibos and flavoured Rooibos options, along with a kids range under the Laager Tea4Kidz brand.
Tetley is the second-largest tea brand in the world, with millions of cups of Tetley tea enjoyed in 40 countries across the globe. A South African favourite, Tetley is available in a variety of flavours and formats, including Tetley Premium Blend tea, the Tetley Green tea range, Tetley Pure Chamomile, Tetley Chai’s, and Tetley Decaf tea blend, all with varying health properties and great taste!
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Author: Agnes Matladi from Olivia Jones Communications on behalf of Joekels.
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