During the 2020 lockdown, Jess van Vuuren returned to Durban after four years abroad, facing overwhelming emotions and anxiety. Working with Nature’s Relief, she began experimenting with their tinctures, creating blends that uplifted her spirits and brought mental clarity. This personal experimentation led to the birth of Aizoa Botanicals.
“This journey was deeply personal,” Jess shares. “When I was younger and learning my limits with drinking, an incident occurred where I lost control more than I realised. This affected my social anxiety, making me apprehensive about social interactions.”
Aizoa became her solution, offering the perfect balance of enhancing her mood while allowing her to stay in control. Collaborating with a skilled pharmacist and biochemist, she refined her kitchen experiment into a professionally crafted product. “Aizoa aids in social interactions by providing a drink that enhances mood and clarity without altering your state of mind,” Jess notes. It supports genuine connections with others by ensuring individuals remain present and engaged. Furthermore, Aizoa’s low sugar content and absence of alcohol help maintain a healthy gut, enabling individuals to listen to their gut instincts without disruption.
The Importance of Mindful Consumption
Jess defines mindful consumption as being conscious of everything we consume, including food, drinks, media, and our environment. “What we consume shapes who we become, and to a large extent, it is something we can control,” she explains.
Aizoa’s ingredients are chosen for their excellent health benefits, supporting various aspects of health, from boosting immunity to promoting better digestion and cognitive function. In social settings, where drinking alcohol is prevalent, Aizoa allows individuals to enjoy a beverage without drawing unwanted attention or pressure to drink alcohol. Unlike alcohol, Aizoa does not lead to hangovers, ensuring individuals wake up feeling refreshed, alert, and fully present.
“Aizoa was designed to be an option for those who choose not to drink alcohol, whether because they are driving or for various other reasons, but still want to feel energised, take the edge off, and stay in control,” Jess explains. The brand is built on a love for collaboration and is inspired by the innovation of small businesses and brands.
Aizoa Botanicals stands as a testament to Jess’s journey and commitment to mindful consumption and personal wellness. Through its carefully crafted products, Aizoa offers a pathway to greater self-awareness, holistic well-being, and meaningful connections with others.
Signature Mocktails
ELDERFLOWER CITRUS FIZZ
- 25 ml Elderflower & Buchu Aizoa Botanical Aperitif
- A thin peel of an orange (garnish)
- A few mint leaves
- Sparkling water
- Ice
In a cocktail shaker, add 25 ml of the Elderflower and Buchu Aperitif. Add in your ice and mint leaves, then shake. Pour through a strainer into your glass and top off with sparkling water. Lightly twist your thin orange peel over the drink to release a slight spray of zest, and place the peel on top. Add a straw and enjoy!
MINTY MAGIC “MOJITO”
- 25 ml Lime & Ginger Aizoa Botanical Aperitif
- Mint leaves
- Club soda
- Soda water
- Ice
In a glass of your choice (preferably medium tall), add 25 ml of the Lime and Ginger Aperitif. Add your ice and mint leaves, and top off with equal parts of the club soda and soda water. Stir gently. Add a straw and enjoy a booze-free mojito!
Words: Kai Coates