What do we know about rooibos, and why drink it?
Have you ever tried rooibos tea? Or do you simply recognise the memorable name, now firmly established among the world's popular drinks? Discover what this unassuming African plant contains and why you might want to start drinking rooibos!
What is rooibos?
Rooibos is a South African plant, Aspalathus linearis, or red bush. Interestingly, it has been cultivated in Africa for more than a thousand years, while its infusion became popular in Europe only towards the end of the twentieth century.
First, note that although rooibos is called tea, it is not related to the tea plant. It is an entirely different species. Apart from a similar leaf-processing method involving fermentation, they have almost nothing in common. The name “tea” probably comes from how it is consumed.
Nevertheless, “rooibos tea” remains the common commercial name, making the product easier for consumers to find.
What properties does rooibos offer?
The dried shoots produce an infusion with numerous health-related qualities and a pleasant flavour, making it an alternative to coffee, black tea or green tea.
Rooibos contains iron, calcium, zinc, magnesium, potassium, fluoride, copper, manganese and sodium, making it appealing to people interested in these minerals.
It also provides polyphenols, which help protect against free radicals associated with oxidative stress. Contributing factors include chronic stress, inadequate sleep, smoking, excessive alcohol, a highly processed diet and environmental pollution.
Rooibos is regarded as supporting normal cardiovascular function and thus helping reduce circulatory disease risk. Research has also investigated possible benefits for people with type II diabetes.
Its attributed antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity has led to uses in cosmetics and dermatology. Products containing rooibos are used for skin concerns such as acne, psoriasis and sunburn.
The infusion contains no caffeine, so it is also enjoyed by children and during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Its tannin content is very low, making it suitable for people concerned about iron levels. Low tannins also make it an option for those who experience irritation of the stomach lining.
Which rooibos is best, and where can you buy it?
Rooibos is growing steadily in popularity and can be found in most food shops. Loose rooibos is available in herbal shops, organic-food shops and often pharmacies, reflecting its health-related reputation.
Like other teas, it comes loose or in ready-to-brew bags. For confidence in quality, choose loose rooibos. With sachets, it is harder to know exactly what you are getting.
Our online shop offers Albert Tea Sunny Rooibos, our own blend of rooibos, apple, lemongrass, papaya and sunflower.
It comes in a practical tin for convenient storage at home, helping it keep its freshness, distinctive flavour and aroma for longer.
Try Albert Tea Sunny Rooibos and embark on an extraordinary journey to Africa, filled with taste and aroma. Allow yourself a surprising experience that helps you catch your breath, find inner calm and renew your enthusiasm for life.
How to brew rooibos
Brewing is much like preparing traditional tea. Simply pour boiling water over a heaped teaspoon and steep for four or five minutes. That is all! Then enjoy the taste and aroma of the red infusion.