Cyclopia Intermedia Leaf Extract (Cyclopia intermedia, Fabaceae)

Caffeine-free extract obtained from the leaves (and sometimes young stems) of Cyclopia intermedia, the South African “honeybush.” It offers a honey-floral aroma with a characteristic polyphenolic profile. Used as a functional ingredient in foods and beverages (infusions and RTD bases) and in cosmetics as an antioxidant and soothing (lenitive) active.

Caloric Value (Per 100 g Of Product)

Unsweetened ready-to-drink infusion: ~0–3 kcal/100 g.
Hydroalcoholic extract: ~50–150 kcal/100 g (depends on solids and EtOH residue).
Glyceric/glycolic extract: ~150–300 kcal/100 g.
Standardized dry extract (powder): ~200–350 kcal/100 g.

Key Constituents

Polyphenols: xanthones (notably mangiferin and isomangiferin), hesperidin, benzophenone derivatives (e.g., iriflophenone glycosides), flavanones/flavones (e.g., isosakuranetin/apigenin glycosides), phenolic acids (caffeic, ferulic, p-coumaric).
Sugars And Cyclitols: D-pinitol and other polyols; traces of free sugars depending on process.
Tannins: moderate; generally a “soft” astringency compared with black tea.
Caffeine: naturally absent.
Analytical markers: mangiferin by HPLC as a primary marker; TPC (Folin–Ciocalteu); color profile (absorbance 420–450 nm).

Production Process

Raw materials: selected leaves/young stems with removal of extraneous matter.
Botanical stabilization: gentle drying; for tea-cut material, a controlled enzymatic oxidation (“fermentation”) is common to develop honeyed notes; for high-xanthone extracts, unfermented material is often preferred.
Extraction: maceration or percolation in water/EtOH at moderate temperature; glycerin/glycols for cosmetic use; optional resin/membrane steps to enrich polyphenols.
Clarification And Concentration: filtration, selective decolorization if needed, vacuum concentration; for powders, spray-dry with suitable carriers.
Standardization: set assay (e.g., mangiferin ≥ X% and/or TPC); control pH and °Brix/density (liquids).
Quality: HPLC profile, residual solvents, metals/pesticides, microbiology; barrier packaging per GMP/HACCP.

Sensory And Technological Properties

Aroma/color: honey–floral notes with light spice; yellow–amber hue in solution.
Functionality: in-vitro antioxidant activity from xanthone-rich fractions; potential soothing and mild masking effects.
Compatibility: possible haze from polyphenol–protein or Ca/Mg complexes; water hardness and pH influence clarity and taste.

Food Applications

Infusions, RTD beverage bases, syrups/flavor bases, bakery and snacks (honeyed notes), dairy/ice-cream, light confectionery. Indicative dosages: dry extract 0.05–0.30% in beverages; liquid extracts 0.2–1.0% (as is) to taste; in dry mixes 0.3–1.5% (powder).

Nutrition And Health

Naturally caffeine-free ingredient containing polyphenols (xanthones) with in-vitro antioxidant activity. In foods, health claims require specific authorization. Use prudence in high-assay supplements as for any concentrated extract.

Quality And Specifications (Typical Topics)

Assay in mangiferin and TPC; HPLC profile (xanthones/flavonoids).
Physicochemical parameters: pH, °Brix/density (liquids), moisture/aw (powders), color index.
Contaminants: pesticides/metals within limits; EtOH residue where applicable; compliant microbiology.
Sensory: absence of grassy/oxidized off-notes; batch-to-batch consistency.

Storage And Shelf Life

Protect from light and oxygen (DO kept low); use low-permeability barrier packs.
Liquids: reseal tightly; consider inert/protective headspace.
Powders: control RH/aw to avoid caking and aroma/color loss.
Avoid temperature swings; apply FIFO rotation.

Allergens And Safety

No major allergens specific to the species are known; check for incidental pollens/field debris and compliance with impurity limits. Observe limits for residual solvents and contaminants for both food and cosmetic use.

INCI Functions In Cosmetics

Typical entries: Cyclopia Intermedia Leaf Extract; Cyclopia Intermedia Leaf/Stem Extract.
Roles: antioxidant, skin conditioning, soothing, light masking; suitable for toners, gels, serums, and leave-on/rinse-off formats.

Troubleshooting

Haze In Beverages: polyphenol–protein or Ca/Mg complexes → clarification/fine filtration, mild chelants, control hardness and pH.
Color Shift/Fade: light or high DO/pH → protect from light/oxygen, acidify within product limits.
Sediment Formation: fine particulates or phenolic polymerization → microfiltration, colloid stabilizers (hydrocolloids).
Lot-To-Lot Variability: source/maturity/process → tighten specs on mangiferin and TPC.

Sustainability And Supply Chain

Harvest and cultivation within the fynbos biome with attention to biodiversity; promote traceable and fair supply chains. In-plant: water savings, heat recovery, effluent management to BOD/COD targets; recyclable packaging and controlled temperature/humidity logistics.

Conclusion

Cyclopia Intermedia Leaf Extract combines honeyed aromatics, natural caffeine-free status, and a distinctive xanthone profile. Performance and stability hinge on raw-material quality, control of pH/light/oxygen, and rigorous standardization to mangiferin/TPC.

Mini-Glossary

EtOH — Ethanol: Hydroalcoholic co-solvent; relevant for labeling if residual.
Mangiferin — Signature honeybush xanthone; in-vitro antioxidant.
TPC — Total phenolic content: Folin–Ciocalteu; global, non-specific phenolic indicator.
HPLC — High-performance liquid chromatography: Quantitative analysis of xanthones/flavonoids and other markers.
DO — Dissolved oxygen: Lowering it limits oxidation and color fade.
RH — Relative humidity: Control for powder stability.
aw — Water activity: “Free” water fraction linked to stability and microbiology.
RTD — Ready to drink: Beverage ready for consumption.
GMP/HACCP — Good manufacturing practice / Hazard analysis and critical control points: Preventive quality systems with defined CCP.
BOD/COD — Biochemical/chemical oxygen demand: Effluent organic-load indicators.
FIFO — First in, first out: Stock rotation prioritizing older lots.
CCP — Critical control point: Step where a control prevents/eliminates/reduces a hazard.

References__________________________________________________________________________

Ajuwon OR, Ayeleso AO, Adefolaju GA. The Potential of South African Herbal Tisanes, Rooibos and Honeybush in the Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Molecules. 2018 Dec 5;23(12):3207. doi: 10.3390/molecules23123207. 

Abstract. Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease that can lead to high morbidity, mortality and long-term complications. Available treatment strategies, which are mainly based on treating hyperglycemia, with insulin and other pharmacological agents are not completely efficient and can even lead to development of unwanted side effects. Scientific evidence suggests that bioactive compounds from teas and other plant-based foods, which are known source of natural antioxidants, could be an attractive strategy to preferentially treat and manage type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and thus, have significant therapeutic implications. In this review, we attempt an in-depth analysis and discussion of the current progress in our understanding of the antidiabetic potential of two commercialized South Africa herbal tisanes-Rooibos and Honeybush and their polyphenols.

Jack BU, Ramharack P, Malherbe C, Gabuza K, Joubert E, Pheiffer C. Cyclopia intermedia (Honeybush) Induces Uncoupling Protein 1 and Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Alpha Expression in Obese Diabetic Female db/db Mice. Int J Mol Sci. 2023 Feb 15;24(4):3868. doi: 10.3390/ijms24043868. 

Abstract. Previously, we reported that a crude polyphenol-enriched fraction of Cyclopia intermedia (CPEF), a plant consumed as the herbal tea, commonly known as honeybush, reduced lipid content in 3T3-L1 adipocytes and inhibited body weight gain in obese, diabetic female leptin receptor-deficient (db/db) mice. In the current study, the mechanisms underlying decreased body weight gain in db/db mice were further elucidated using western blot analysis and in silico approaches. CPEF induced uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1, 3.4-fold, p < 0.05) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα, 2.6-fold, p < 0.05) expression in brown adipose tissue. In the liver, CPEF induced PPARα expression (2.2-fold, p < 0.05), which was accompanied by a 31.9% decrease in fat droplets in Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E)-stained liver sections (p < 0.001). Molecular docking analysis revealed that the CPEF compounds, hesperidin and neoponcirin, had the highest binding affinities for UCP1 and PPARα, respectively. This was validated with stabilising intermolecular interactions within the active sites of UCP1 and PPARα when complexed with these compounds. This study suggests that CPEF may exert its anti-obesity effects by promoting thermogenesis and fatty acid oxidation via inducing UCP1 and PPARα expression, and that hesperidin and neoponcirin may be responsible for these effects. Findings from this study could pave the way for designing target-specific anti-obesity therapeutics from C. intermedia.

Kokotkiewicz A, Luczkiewicz M. Honeybush (Cyclopia sp.) - a rich source of compounds with high antimutagenic properties. Fitoterapia. 2009 Jan;80(1):3-11. doi: 10.1016/j.fitote.2008.11.001.

Abstract. The genus Cyclopia (Fabaceae family) includes a number of shrubs endemic to Cape Fynbos region of South Africa. The most common of these plants is Cyclopia intermedia E. Mey., used together with other Cyclopia species (mainly C. subternata and C. sessiliflora) to manufacture the honeybush herbal tea which has been produced in South Africa roughly since the beginning of the 19th century. Honeybush infusions are gaining popularity due to their characteristic honey-like flavour, low tannin content, absence of caffeine and potential health effects related to their antimutagenic and antioxidant properties. The presented review summarizes information concerning botany, chemistry, biological activity and application of Cyclopia plants.

McKay DL, Blumberg JB. A review of the bioactivity of South African herbal teas: rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) and honeybush (Cyclopia intermedia). Phytother Res. 2007 Jan;21(1):1-16. doi: 10.1002/ptr.1992. 

Abstract. Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) and honeybush (Cyclopia intermedia) are popular tisanes in their native South Africa and have a growing worldwide market. Both herbal teas are used traditionally for medicinal purposes and are rich in polyphenols with rooibos a rare source of the dietary dihydrochalcones, aspalathin and nothofagin. The principal polyphenols in honeybush include the xanthone mangiferin and the flavonones hesperitin and isokuranetin. Despite their divergent phytochemical and nutrient compositions, rooibos and honeybush share potent antioxidant and antimutagenic activities in vitro. Animal model studies indicate both herbal teas possess potent antioxidant, immune-modulating and chemopreventive actions. However, human studies of rooibos are limited and of honeybush are absent. No adverse effects of rooibos or honeybush consumption as tisanes have been reported.

Kamara BI, Brand DJ, Brandt EV, Joubert E. Phenolic metabolites from honeybush tea (Cyclopia subternata). J Agric Food Chem. 2004 Aug 25;52(17):5391-5. doi: 10.1021/jf040097z. 

Abstract. Cyclopia subternata is one of the 24 Cyclopia species that are used to brew honeybush tea, a unique South African herbal beverage with a pleasant taste and flavor. It contains various antioxidants, very low tannin content, and no caffeine. Many health properties are associated with regular consumption of the tea. Honeybush infusions have been noted as a tonic for colds and influenza, catarrh, and pulmonic tuberculosis and is becoming well-known for its effectiveness in alleviating menopausal symptoms in women. "Unfermented" leaves of C. subternata contain pinitol, shikimic acid, p-coumaric acid, 4-glucosyltyrosol, epigallocatechin gallate, the isoflavone orobol, the flavanones hesperedin, narirutin, and eriocitrin, a glycosylated flavan, the flavones luteolin, 5-deoxyluteolin, and scolymoside, the xanthone mangiferin, and the flavonol C-6-glucosylkaempferol. The structures were elucidated by spectroscopic and spectrometric analysis.

Im AR, Song JH, Lee MY, Yeon SH, Um KA, Chae S. Anti-wrinkle effects of fermented and non-fermented Cyclopia intermedia in hairless mice. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2014 Oct 29;14:424. doi: 10.1186/1472-6882-14-424. 

Abstract. Background: The fermented leaves and stems of Cyclopia intermedia are used to brew honeybush tea, an herbal tea indigenous to South Africa with reported anti-wrinkle effects. Wrinkle formation caused by photoaging clearly involves changes in extracellular matrix components and mechanical properties of the skin. Methods: The inhibitory effects of honeybush extract and fermented honeybush on wrinkle formation were determined by analyzing skin replicas, histologically examining epidermal thickness, and identifying damage to collagen fibers. Results: Honeybush extract and fermented honeybush reduced the length and depth of skin winkles caused by UV irradiation and inhibited thickening of the epidermal layer, in addition to suppressing collagen tissue breakdown reactions, indicating its potential use as a skin wrinkle prevention agent. Conclusions: This in vivo study demonstrates that honeybush produces significant anti-wrinkle effects and is therefore of interest in anti-aging skin care products.

Hering A, Ochocka JR, Baranska H, Cal K, Stefanowicz-Hajduk J. Mangiferin and Hesperidin Transdermal Distribution and Permeability through the Skin from Solutions and Honeybush Extracts (Cyclopia sp.)-A Comparison Ex Vivo Study. Molecules. 2021 Oct 29;26(21):6547. doi: 10.3390/molecules26216547. 

Abstract. Polyphenolic compounds-mangiferin and hesperidin-are, among others, the most important secondary metabolites of African shrub Cyclopia sp. (honeybush). The aim of this study was to compare the percutaneous absorption of mangiferin and hesperidin from solutions (water, ethanol 50%, (v/v)) and extracts obtained from green and fermented honeybush (water, ethanol 50%, (v/v)). Research was performed with the Bronaugh cells, on human dorsal skin. The mangiferin and hesperidin distributions in skin layers (stratum corneum, epidermis, and dermis) and in acceptor fluid (in every 2, 4, 6, and 24 h) were evaluated by HPLC-Photodiode Array Coulometric and Coulometric Electrochemical Array Detection. The transdermal distribution of hesperidin was also demonstrated by fluorescence microscopy. Results indicated that mangiferin and hesperidin were able to cross the stratum corneum and penetrate into the epidermis and dermis. An advantage of hesperidin penetration into the skin from the water over ethanol solution was observed (451.02 ± 14.50 vs. 357.39 ± 4.51 ng/cm2), as well as in the mangiferin study (127.56 ± 9.49 vs. 97.23 ± 2.92 ng/cm2). Furthermore, mangiferin penetration was more evident from nonfermented honeybush ethanol extract (189.85 ± 4.11 ng/cm2) than from solutions. The permeation of mangiferin and hesperidin through the skin to the acceptor fluid was observed regardless of whether the solution or the honeybush extract was applied. The highest ability to permeate the skin was demonstrated for the water solution of hesperidin (250.92 ± 16.01 ng/cm2), while the hesperidin occurring in the extracts permeated in a very low capacity. Mangiferin from nonfermented honeybush ethanol extract had the highest ability to permeate to the acceptor fluid within 24 h (152.36 ± 8.57 ng/cm2).