Articles
Sustainable cultivation advancements of Artemisia afra indigenous beverage crop in South Africa
Article number
1466_12
Pages
93 – 96
Language
English
Abstract
Artemisia afra (African wormwood) is an indigenous South African medicinal plant with growing potential as a sustainable herbal beverage crop.
Its adaptability to diverse agro-ecological conditions, including drought-prone environments and low-fertility soils, makes it well suited to climate-resilient production systems.
This narrative review synthesizes current knowledge on the sustainable cultivation, beverage quality, postharvest processing, and circular bioeconomy opportunities associated with A. afra. Evidence indicates that improved propagation methods, organic soil management, and appropriate postharvest practices can support sustainable biomass production and consistent beverage quality.
Circular bioeconomy approaches are discussed as emerging opportunities for biomass valorisation and improved resource-use efficiency; however, their application to A. afra remains largely unvalidated.
Key research priorities include the development of standardized cultivation and processing protocols, quality assurance systems, and integrated value chains that combine scientific innovation with indigenous knowledge.
Overall, A. afra has considerable potential to contribute to sustainable agriculture, rural livelihoods, and the diversification of South Africa’s indigenous beverage sector.
Its adaptability to diverse agro-ecological conditions, including drought-prone environments and low-fertility soils, makes it well suited to climate-resilient production systems.
This narrative review synthesizes current knowledge on the sustainable cultivation, beverage quality, postharvest processing, and circular bioeconomy opportunities associated with A. afra. Evidence indicates that improved propagation methods, organic soil management, and appropriate postharvest practices can support sustainable biomass production and consistent beverage quality.
Circular bioeconomy approaches are discussed as emerging opportunities for biomass valorisation and improved resource-use efficiency; however, their application to A. afra remains largely unvalidated.
Key research priorities include the development of standardized cultivation and processing protocols, quality assurance systems, and integrated value chains that combine scientific innovation with indigenous knowledge.
Overall, A. afra has considerable potential to contribute to sustainable agriculture, rural livelihoods, and the diversification of South Africa’s indigenous beverage sector.
Publication
Authors
J. Malaka, N. Araya
Keywords
herbal tea, circular bioeconomy, postharvest processing, sustainable cultivation
Online Articles (74)