OIL OF THE MONTH: CAPE SNOWBUSH

Eriocephalus africanus is a gorgeous shrub which blooms with a showy mass of purple-eyed white flowers during the winter. These flowers then convert into seed heads, and the shrubs are covered in really striking snowy tufts - which is the inspiration behind its common name: Cape Snowbush (also known as wild rosemary). Cape Snowbush is part of the Asteraceae family, with some 34 species of Eriocephalus occurring in South Africa. 

Cape Snowbush boasts a beautiful silvery foliage, with the purpose going beyond aesthetics. The silver reflects sunlight, which keeps the leaves cool and reduces evaporation. Rubbing these silver leaves produces a rather magical camphor scent. 

Cape Snowbush is grown on Rockhaven farm in the Groot Winterhoek Conservancy. She's hand harvested in July (right now in fact), and it all brings a real sense of whimsy with the snow capped peaks surrounding the farm.

Cape Snowbush has traditionally been used as a medicine for many ailments like coughs, colds and colic. The plant is also used to enhance flavour when it comes to cooking, particularly meat and legumes.The essential oil is antiseptic and is also an effective decongestant. The oil is steam-stilled on the farm and the oil is a bronzed amber colour.

The oil is commonly used in hair and skincare products, as well as the perfume industry. A great example is Peach and Moon Organics Botanical Face oil, which you can see here.  It is also great in soaps, candles, and body wash. The sweet, floral scent with camphoraceous undertones blends well with many other oils such as Bergamot, Cedarwood, Frankincense, Ginger, Lemon and Geranium. 

She's incredibly popular so please mail us with requests during the months of June or July as she sells out in one flick of a lambs tail!