Rooibos Tea is a traditional drink of South Africa. It is becoming more popular in Western countries as it contains high levels of antioxidants such as aspalathin and nothofagin, yet no caffeine and very low tannin levels (since tannins can affect the metabolism by decreasing absorption of certain nutrients like iron and protein) as opposed to fully oxidized black tea or unoxidized green tea leaves. In South Africa it is more usual to drink rooibos with milk and sugar, but elsewhere it is usually served without. The flavour of rooibos tea is often described as being sweet (without sugar added) and slightly nutty. Preparation of rooibos tea is essentially the same as black tea and the flavour is improved by longer brewing. The resulting brew is a reddish brown colour, perhaps explaining why rooibos is sometimes referred to as "red tea."
As well containing no caffeine, Rooibos tea contains no colours, additives or preservatives, making it a natural and healthy beverage. Rooibos contains the following minerals: copper, iron and potassium, calcium, fluoride, zinc, manganese, alpha- hydroxy (for healthy skin) and magnesium (for the nervous system) are also components of this tea.
According to studies conducted in South Africa and Japan, Rooibos has been shown to aid in health problems such as insomnia, irritability, headaches, nervous tension, and hypertension. Studies also show that this tea contains anti - spasmodic agents, which can relieve stomach cramping and colic in infants. In South Africa Rooibos has been used to treat allergies such as hay fever, asthma and eczema very effectively. Rooibos contains almost no oxalic acid, making it a good beverage for people prone to kidney stones. Rooibos also contains anti - oxidants which can help slow the aging process and boost the immune system. It is also used to treat irritated skin - it can be brewed and placed directly on infected areas.
Rooibos is a great thirst quencher and is an excellent beverage for active people, including children. Most children will drink Rooibos without added sugar or sweeteners. In South Africa pregnant women and nursing mothers drink Rooibos due to the zero caffeine level.
