Rooibos tea isn’t tea at all! It’s actually a straw-like herb, also known as “red bush,†that comes from the South African Aspalathus linearis. The brew of the rooibos leaf is naturally sweet, caffeine free, and full of compounds that provide health benefits! It has a rich, full-bodied taste with nutty undertones and hints of sweet raisin. Researchers have discovered that drinking rooibos tea is good for strengthening the heart, slowing the ageing process, regulating blood sugar, and calming allergy symptoms. Low tannin levels also make the brew soothing for digestion.
#1 Healthy Skin, Teeth & Hair
Rooibos tea contains a variety of vitamins and minerals that support glowing internal health and external appearance. Zinc present in the leaves helps to heal wounds and repair damaged cells - quickly healing acne and reducing the visibility of scars. Magnesium and naturally-occurring fluoride in the brew help to support healthy teeth, while low tannic acid levels mean that the brew won't stain your pearly whites! Copper and potassium in rooibos tea stimulate hair growth and prevent graying.
#2 Heart Health & Blood Sugar Regularity
Traditionally, rooibos has been enjoyed for both its flavor and medicinal benefits. Studies are not backing up this ancient wisdom. Antioxidant and antimutagenic content in rooibos tea indicates that it may be effective in cancer prevention and immune system support. Aspalathin and nothofagin are the most prominent antioxidants found in the leaves. These polyphenols are also purported to reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease, by preventing oxidation of cells and inhibiting unhealthy and mutated cell growth. These unique compounds have also gotten attention for their anti-inflammatory power and ability to naturally inhibit spikes in blood sugar levels. This is good news for diabetes sufferers, as drinking the naturally sweet brew may alleviate some symptoms.
#3 Free of Caffeine & Side Effects
Though rooibos tea has a plethora of medicinal applications, it is also one of the safest herbal teas to consume. Caffeine-free and non-drowsy, rooibos can be a safe herbal remedy for colicky babies. Since it is free from side effects, it's a healthy and risk-free choice for enhancing health and wellness. Insomnia sufferers and those with a sensitivity to caffeine can enjoy a hot cuppa all day long with no risk of impaired sleep at night. Since rooibos contains no caffeine or oxalic acid, it is hydrationg and safe for kidney stone sufferers. Women who are (or are attempting to become) pregnant are usually safe to enjoy this beverage, as it has no negative effects on fertility or the unborn child.
#4 Supports Healthy Weight
Replacing calorie-laden beverages with naturally sweet rooibos tea, iced or hot, can help with weight loss efforts. Naturally calorie-free and nutrient dense, rooibos is an excellent addition to a healthy diet and weight loss plan. Delicious flavors like pumpkin chai and hibiscus make the choices even more enticing!
#5 Breathe Easy
Rooibos tea has long been sought after for its ability to clear the sinus and respiratory system. Researchers have proven that rooibos is an effective bronchodilator, aiding the passage of airflow to the lungs. This is good news for those who suffer acute asthma and other respiratory ailments. It's also effective at clearing congestion caused by season allergies, pollution, and pollen in the air.
Rooibos tea is a delicious elixir that supports physical health and beauty! It can be enjoyed as a hot or iced tea. Brewing is simple, since the tea can't be oversteeped or burned. So, the next time you're looking for a beverage to satisfy your sweet tooth, go for this naturally refreshing herb. It's enjoyable to sip, with the added benefits of glowing skin, strong teeth, and lustrous hair. But, beauty is not just skin deep, and with this awesome brew, you can also strengthen your immune and cardiovascular systems. Drink to your health!