Rooibos Tea: Healthy and Delicious
By now we all know that green tea has a variety of health benefits (we’re big fans), but often overlooked are other tea strains that have a myriad of healthy side effects, the front runner being Rooibos. With a lovely color and unique taste, this tea is technically an herb and has been used in South Africa and surrounding regions for centuries for its medicinal properties.
Vitamins and Minerals
Rooibos is immensely rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, potassium, copper, and many trace minerals.
Anti-Inflammatory
This type of tea is rich in polyphenols, which has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Polyphenols are also a key antioxidant and can help reduce the risk of certain cancers and cardiovascular disease. During cold and flu season, drinking rooibos can help to stave off illness. For allergy sufferers, rooibos can help ease some symptoms. It can reduce asthma attacks, topical allergies, and hay fever – so you can be more comfortable.
Diabetes Help
One of the antioxidants found in rooibos, aspalathin, can help with diabetes management by balancing blood sugar levels and can improve insulin resistance. These factors can not only help to manage diabetes but can also prevent the development of type II diabetes if you have common risk factors.
Caffeine-Free
Although green tea has a lot of health benefits as well, people who are trying to avoid caffeine don’t drink it. Rooibos is a great alternative for caffeine avoiders, or in afternoons and evenings in order to ensure a good night’s sleep.
Reduce Hypertension, Help your Heart
A good cup of tea is very relaxing and for good reason. Rooibos is a bronchodilator, which can help to reduce blood pressure, relieve respiratory conditions, and reduce the risk of heart attacks or atherosclerosis. Meanwhile, this tea can promote good cholesterol and prevent strokes.
Natural Stomach Help
In South Africa, rooibos is often used to help settle the stomachs of fussy infants and children in discomfort. Mixed with a little milk (or non-dairy alternative) it can help with colicky babies and common complaints. These same properties can help adults to ease stomach and abdominal complaints.
Safe for Stones
People who are prone to kidney stones don’t commonly drink tea as the oxalic acid found in most tea varieties can lead to the creation of more stones. Fortunately, rooibos tea does not contain oxalic acid, so it’s a safe alternative. Rooibos can be consumed without sweeteners since it has a naturally sweet taste, providing your body with hydration and all the excellent benefits of a great herbal tea. For even more health benefits, look for rooibos tea blended with fruits like pomegranates, goji berries, coconut and blueberries. Enjoy!
