Amazing Rooibos
Have you tried beautiful cup of Rooibos tea?
In addition to being a popular, caffeine-free beverage, rooibos is also used in various beauty and skincare products due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The plant is also used in traditional medicine in South Africa to treat a variety of ailments, including allergies, digestive issues, and skin conditions.
The Origin of Rooibos
Rooibos is a herbal tea made from the leaves of the Aspalathus linearis plant, which is native to South Africa.
Rooibos, also known as “red bush” tea, has been used for centuries by the indigenous Khoisan people of the region.
The Khoisan people would harvest the leaves and stems of the rooibos plant, and then bruise and ferment them in the sun to bring out the tea’s distinct red colour and flavour.
In the 18th century, European settlers began to take an interest in rooibos tea, and it became popular as a caffeine-free alternative to black tea.
Today, rooibos is exported around the world and is enjoyed by millions of people for its unique taste and potential health benefits.
Medicinal Benefits of Rooibos
Here are some potential medical benefits of rooibos:
- Antioxidant Effect
- Anti-inflammatory Effect
- Cardiovascular Health Effect
- Digestive Health Effect
- Skin Care Potential
Antioxidant Qualities
Rooibos contains high levels of antioxidants, which help to protect the body from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to chronic diseases.
Aspalathin has been shown to have potent antioxidant activity meaning that it can neutralise free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage.
Rooibos contains other antioxidants such as polyphenols, which have been shown to have a range of health benefits, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Rooibos is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Inflammation is a natural response of the immune system to injury or infection.
Chronic inflammation can contribute to the development of a range of diseases, including arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
Several compounds in rooibos have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects.
Firstly, Rooibos contains the flavonoids quercetin and luteolin, which have been shown to inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines.
Secondly, it also contains the polyphenol aspalathin, which has been shown to reduce the production of nitric oxide.
Thirdly, rooibos contains the compound chrysoeriol, which has been shown to have anti-anxiety effects in animal studies.
Reducing stress through the consumption of rooibos may help to reduce inflammation as well.
Cardiovascular and Digestive Health
This effect is thought to be due to the presence of flavonoids in rooibos, which help to dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow.
Rooibos can reduce blood pressure and improve blood lipid levels.
It may also have a protective effect on the endothelial cells that line the blood vessels, helping to maintain their health and function.
Rooibos has been shown to have a soothing effect on the digestive system, which may help to alleviate conditions such as stomach ulcers, constipation, and diarrhoea.
Skin Care
Today, rooibos is also commonly used in skincare products due to its potential benefits for the skin.
Firstly, rooibos contains a variety of natural compounds like Zinc, which can help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
This can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging.
Secondly, it contains the flavonoid quercetin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects.
Inflammation in the skin can contribute to a range of skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
By reducing inflammation, rooibos may help to improve the appearance of these conditions.
Thirdly, rooibos contains alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), which are natural exfoliants that can help to remove dead skin cells and promote skin cell renewal.
Rooibos is also gentle and non-irritating, making it a good choice for people with sensitive skin.
It has been shown to have soothing properties and may help to reduce redness and irritation in the skin.
Rooibos is often found in skincare products such as creams, serums, and masks, and may be a good choice for people looking for natural and gentle skincare options.
Rooibos Tea
Rooibos Tea can be enjoyed hot or cold and can be sweetened with honey or other natural sweeteners to taste.
Furthermore, rooibos tea is naturally caffeine-free, making it a great option for those who are sensitive to caffeine or looking for a relaxing, caffeine-free beverage.
It is also low in tannins, which can interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients, making it a good choice for individuals who are looking to maximise the nutritional benefits of their tea.
Rooibos tea can be prepared using a variety of methods, each of which can produce a slightly different flavour profile.
Here are some additional methods for making rooibos tea:
1) Cold Brew Rooibos Tea:
Cold brewing is a great method for making rooibos tea if you prefer a milder, less bitter flavor. To make cold brew rooibos tea, simply add 1-2 teaspoons of loose rooibos tea to a pitcher or jar of cold water, and let it steep in the fridge for at least 12 hours (or up to 24 hours for a stronger flavour). Once the tea has steeped, strain out the tea leaves and serve over ice.
2) Rooibos Tea Latte:
To make a rooibos tea latte, simply brew a cup of strong rooibos tea, and mix it with your choice of milk (such as almond milk, coconut milk, or dairy milk) and sweetener (such as honey or maple syrup). You can heat the milk on the stove or in the microwave for a warm latte, or serve it over ice for a cold latte.
3) Spiced Rooibos Tea:
Adding spices and other flavourings to rooibos tea can give it a delicious, warming flavour. To make spiced rooibos tea, add cinnamon sticks, ginger, cloves, and/or cardamom pods to a pot of boiling water with the rooibos tea leaves, and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes. Strain out the tea and spices, and sweeten with honey or other natural sweeteners if desired.
4) Rooibos Tea with Lemon and Honey:
This is a simple and refreshing way to enjoy rooibos tea. Simply brew a cup of rooibos tea, and add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a drizzle of honey to taste.
It is important to steep rooibos tea for at least 5-10 minutes to allow the flavour and health benefits to fully develop.
Enjoy!!
Research Studies
One study found that applying a cream containing rooibos extract to the skin twice daily for six weeks was effective in reducing the number of pimples and improving the overall appearance of the skin in people with mild to moderate acne.
Another study found that rooibos extract was effective in reducing the production of sebum.
It is the oily substance that can clog pores and contribute to the development of acne.
Research suggests that rooibos may be particularly effective at protecting against oxidative stress in the brain.
It can contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
Another research found that rooibos extract was able to protect brain cells from damage caused by hydrogen peroxide, a powerful oxidative stress-inducing agent.
