Red Rooibos Tea Health Benefits

The health benefits of rooibos tea have been known for centuries in South Africa, where the rooibos plant originates. Red rooibos tea health benefits include soothing upset stomach, aiding digestion, calming nervous tension, lowering blood pressure, and providing relief from allergies such as eczema. The many health benefits of rooibos tea are just beginning to be validated and appreciated. An herbal infusion rather than an actual tea, rooibos provides many of the benefits of Camellia Sinensis without the caffeine.

Rooibos tea is an excellent source of antioxidants, which reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases, including cancer. Antioxidants that rooibos tea is packed with include health-boosting polyphenols and a unique antioxidant called aspalathin, which counteracts the atherosclerotic processes that result in heart disease. Rooibos is a rich source of flavonoids, which in addition to their antioxidant capabilities have antiviral and anti-tumor properties.

Furthermore, Rooibos is popular among athletes, who drink rooibos tea to benefit health. Rooibos tea is a rich source of minerals, which get depleted from athletes' bodies after a workout. Three grams of rooibos in 8-ounces of water contains: 1.09 mg of calcium, 0.22 mg of fluoride, 0.07 mg of iron, 1.67 mg of manganese, 7.12 mg of potassium, 6.16 mg of sodium and 0.04 mg of zinc. Rooibos is also very low in tannins, which are said to inhibit the absorption of protein and iron.

Besides having none of the negative effects of caffeine, rooibos is thought to have a soothing effect on the nervous system. Some people report that drinking a cup prior to bedtime helps with insomnia. Rooibos tea is also believed to have anti-aging properties. Recent studies point to its potential in protecting against age-related damage to the brain. An unpublished study by the Institute for Medical Science of Aging at the Aichi Medical University in Japan called Rooibos the "Anti-Aging Beverage" (see pg. 35, Tea Almanac 2001 Fresh Cup Magazine). The anti-aging health benefits of rooibos tea are said to stem predominantly from Rooibos' ability to destroy free radicals.

Rooibos is completely safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as young children, because it is caffeine free. Researchers know of no adverse side effects associated with the consumption of rooibos tea, so it can be drunk freely and regularly. When it comes to enjoying the health benefits of rooibos tea, the more tea, the better!

Here's to a long and healthy life. Enjoy!

Disclaimer: Although we strive to provide you with current, accurate information, we do not recommend tea as a cure or remedy for any health problems. Please consult a physician to ensure that drinking tea will not adversely affect your health or medical condition.