Honey everlasting essential oil
Origin
Cape Mountain Oils is situated at the edge of the Cederberg in the Groot Winterhoek, on what was previously a conventional apple farm. Now called Rockhaven, the farm's soils are sandy and acidic, with a harsh Mediterranean climate of dry summers and cold winters. With a focus on high value crops, only six of Rockhaven’s 120 ha are under production: an energetic programme of alien tree removal has returned much of their land to pristine Fynbos. By selecting crops compatible with their environment, soil health has been restored and biodiversity reestablished, from sugarbirds to porcupine and the rare Cape mountain leopard.
Multiple helichrysum species occur naturally in the veld at Rockhaven and honey everlasting (Helichrysum patulum) is well suited to cultivation in the area. An aromatic shrub with grey foliage and honey-scented white flowers, honey everlasting is indigenous to South Africa with a wide distribution. Known as imphepho, H. patulum is traditionally used as a ritual or ceremonial smudge, as well as a dressing for wounds and treatment for headaches, menstrual pains, asthma and respiratory ailments, and to cleanse kidneys and liver. It is a sleep aid and antimicrobial, and is now sought after for use in medical as well as skincare products. The oil has a soft, herbaceous mint scent with notes of pepper, citrus, cloves and honey, and a pale straw colour.
Country of origin:
South Africa
Producer:
Cape Mountain Oils
Harvesting season:
November - February
Production method:
Cultivated
How it’s produced
Cape Mountain Oils is an established producer of indigenous essential oils with a strong commitment to environmental responsibility.
Cultivation
Cape Mountain Oils grows honey everlasting using regenerative principles. Adapted to the local climate and soils, this is a waterwise, no-till perennial crop. Mulch and grasses are used as cover and organic waste is composted. Plant material is harvested between September and December each year and steam-distilled on site by their small local team. The oil is fully traceable. Certified organic by KIWA for the last decade, Cape Mountain Oils recently decided not to renew certification due to cost: their methods remain fully organic.
Social impact
Cape Mountain Oils provides stable employment for the farming community in the Groot Winterhoek, while working to develop a sustainable Cape Fynbos essential oil market worldwide. They are in negotiation with the South African Department of Environmental Affairs around Bioprospecting and Benefit Sharing Regulations, but Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) agreements are yet to be concluded.