Honeybush
Cyclopia intermedia
About Honeybush
Honeybush (Cyclopia intermedia) is a herb used in the Cape & Southern African Herbalism tradition to help with Menopause, Antioxidant, Respiratory Issues, and Immune Support, among 1 other condition it addresses. The aerial parts and leaves are the parts traditionally used, taken internally.
Botanical background
Cyclopia intermedia is a species of flowering plant in the legume family.
Source: Wikipedia, via iNaturalist
Parts used
Conditions addressed
Tea / Infusion
- Steep 1–2 tsp of dried Honeybush in freshly boiled water for 5–10 minutes.
- Cover while steeping.
- Strain and drink.
Tincture
- Pack dried Honeybush into a jar and cover with 40–60% alcohol.
- Seal and steep for 4–6 weeks, shaking daily.
- Strain and store in a dark dropper bottle.
Powder / Capsule
- Grind dried Honeybush into a fine powder.
- Fill size 00 capsules or stir into smoothies or honey.
Steam Inhalation
- Add 2–3 tbsp of Honeybush to a bowl of just-boiled water.
- Drape a towel over your head and inhale steam for 5–10 minutes.
Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Children
No herb-specific pregnancy/child safety research is documented for Honeybush in our references — the guidance below is based on its general effect category, not research on Honeybush itself. Always confirm with a midwife, doctor, or pediatrician.
Pregnancy
AvoidThis herb is associated with hormone-modulating activity. Because pregnancy is a uniquely hormone-sensitive state, herbs in this category are generally avoided unless specifically guided by a midwife or doctor — this is a general, mechanism-based caution, not herb-specific research.
Breastfeeding
Use CautionHormone-modulating herbs can potentially affect milk supply or pass hormone-active compounds to the infant — generally used cautiously and under guidance.
Children
AvoidHormone-modulating herbs are generally avoided in children given the sensitivity of ongoing hormonal development.
Contraindications
- Autoimmune conditions (lupus, MS, RA) — may overstimulate immune response
- Hormone-sensitive conditions (breast/ovarian cancer, endometriosis) — phytoestrogenic activity possible
Warnings
⚠️ Allergic Reactions
Discontinue immediately if you experience rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
⚠️ Not Medical Advice
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies.
Drug & herb interactions
May affect hormone levels
Watch for: Hormone therapies, oral contraceptives, and tamoxifen or similar medications
Some herbs have mild phytoestrogenic or hormone-modulating activity that can interact with hormonal medications.
May affect immune activity
Watch for: Immunosuppressants (for transplant or autoimmune conditions)
Immune-stimulating herbs can work against immunosuppressive therapy.
Where to find in nature
Native region
Various global regions
Climate
Varied
Habitat
Cultivated in traditional medicinal gardens, botanical gardens, and herb farms worldwide
🌿 To see Honeybush growing, visit botanical gardens, university plant collections, or specialist herb nurseries near you. If foraging in the wild, always work with an expert identifier — never consume a plant you are not 100% certain of.
Where to buy
In store
- Health food stores (Whole Foods, Natural Grocers, Holland & Barrett, GNC)
- Naturopathic clinics and integrative medicine practices
- Specialist herbal apothecaries and herbalist practices
- Farmers markets with herb vendors
Online
iHerb
Wide selection of standardised extracts, capsules, and powders with lab testing
Mountain Rose Herbs
Premium bulk dried herbs — certified organic, ethically sourced
Starwest Botanicals
Large selection of certified organic bulk herbs and powders
Herb Pharm
High-quality liquid extracts and tinctures, rigorous quality standards
Amazon
Convenient — verify brand certifications and check third-party testing
Etsy
Small-batch artisan herbalists, hand-harvested and wildcrafted herbs
Quality tips
When buying Honeybush, look for: certified organic labelling, clearly stated country of origin, third-party lab testing for heavy metals and pesticides, and a batch expiry date. Standardised extracts offer consistent dosing; bulk dried herbs are more economical for regular use. Avoid very cheap, unlabelled products — quality varies enormously.