The Founder of Organic Gardens Ltd., Mrs Abimbola Ige, has reaffirmed the company’s commitment to promoting herbal tea consumption as a healthy lifestyle choice among Nigerians.
Ige made this known during an interview at a tea soirée organised by the company on Sunday at Victoria Island, Lagos. The event, which blended the sophistication of an evening gathering with a tea-focused experience, featured tea tastings, music and social interactions.
She explained that the idea behind Organic Gardens was inspired by her exposure to Nigerian herbal tea products displayed in foreign supermarkets, which made her question why such products were not equally valued at home.
“I travelled and saw Nigerian tea being sold abroad, and it made me reflect on why many Nigerians don’t fully appreciate the richness of our local herbs,” she said.
According to her, that experience sparked extensive research into indigenous herbs, eventually leading to the establishment of Organic Gardens in 2020.
She noted that the company started with Kanki Berries and has since grown its product range to about 12 offerings, cutting across wellness and lifestyle teas.
On production standards, Ige said Organic Gardens prioritises quality by avoiding preservatives and chemical additives.
“Our herbs are processed in their natural form and packaged fresh. We also produce in small batches rather than buying in bulk to maintain freshness and prevent mould,” she said.
She described Sangiberry as the brand’s flagship product, while noting that Matala Chai has also gained strong consumer acceptance.
Ige observed that more Nigerians are embracing tea as part of a wellness-conscious lifestyle, but stressed that the company does not make medical claims about its products.
“What we encourage is mindful consumption and being intentional about what people take into their bodies,” she said.
She also called for greater public education on proper tea consumption, warning that excessive use of sugar and milk could reduce its benefits.
“Tea should be consumed with awareness. When it is overloaded with additives, its wellness value is diminished,” she said.
Ige disclosed that Organic Gardens is targeting wider household adoption across Nigeria by 2026 and may consider expanding into a full-scale wellness centre in the future.