Findings of a two-year study by The Open University in the UK showed that it’s not grand bouquets of flowers and boxes of chocolates that keep love alive, but rather selfless gestures, with a cup of tea being singled out as a significant sign of a partner’s affection.

Thoughtful gifts and generous acts of kindness were described as expressions of love and were not dependent on money or significant dates, such as a birthday or Valentine’s Day. It was rather what the gift or gesture signified that was most important. One such gesture that struck home with participants was the act of giving your partner a cup of tea spontaneously.

Adele du Toit, spokesperson for the SA Rooibos Council (SARC) says one of the most important facets of our lives is having a meaningful and loving relationship with someone we deeply care about.

“In the modern age of technology, when we are communicating more than ever before, real and personal connections seem to be waning. The constant barrage of tweets, texts and emails have replaced face-to-face interaction. Taking the time to make a cup of tea for our spouse or partner helps to rebuild lost or broken connections, while expressing our desire to care for them. Sharing a cup of tea with someone is designed to build deeper and more meaningful relationships,” she says. It does so in three ways:

1. Tea provides a mutual experience that can be enjoyed together.
2. It consists of an act of kindness. From carefully measuring out the leaves or tea bags, gently pouring the water into the teapot and emptying its contents into your finest cups, make your companion feel appreciated. It’s symbolic of how you feel about them.
3. Carving out time to be with your special someone in that moment, also encourages richer conversation.

Du Toit remarks that throughout history, people have turned to herbs to express feelings of love, passion and romance. Still in many cultures, herbs like lavender, spearmint, ginger, damiana, chamomile and lemon balm are celebrated for their romantic powers.

Due to its high antioxidant content, Rooibos too is considered one such aphrodisiac. The popular herbal infusion stimulates neurons to keep firing feel-good messages to the brain, which is considered the most important organ in the body when it comes to intimacy.

Du Toit says antioxidants aren’t naturally produced in the body, but are obtained through consuming fruits, vegetables or tisanes, like Rooibos.

“Showing affection to your loved one on Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to break the bank. While appreciated, grand romantic gestures aren’t always as nurturing as connecting with the one you love over a cup of tenderly made Rooibos. Carving out quality time will make your partner feel seen, heard and loved.”