Rooibos, meaning ‘red bush’, is a plant indigenous to South Africa and herbal tea enjoyed all around the world. But, there’s more to this tea than simply being delicious — it is not only caffeine-free, but low in tannins and rich in antioxidants, to name but a few properties. We unearth some of the many health benefits of rooibos tea.

The Rooibos Plant

Rooibos tea is produced from the plant Aspalathus linearis which is a leguminous shrub that is unique to the Cederberg Mountains around the town of Clanwilliam. It forms part of the Cape Floral Kingdom, commonly known as fynbos, and grows nowhere else in the world.

Benefits of Rooibos

A couple of sips of Rooibos go a long way. Rooibos contains a complex mix of many flavonoids — compounds widely found in plants that are known to have health benefits. It’s one of the most beneficial beverages for those who care about their health and well-being. Here are just a few of its impressive health credentials…

• It is calorie-free.
• Rooibos is natural and contains no additives, preservatives or colourants.
• It is low in tannins. Unlike many teas, Rooibos is naturally low in harmful tannins.
• It is naturally caffeine-free and recommended for individuals suffering from insomnia.
• It contains antioxidants that fight free-radicals (a by-product of normal cell function), which weaken the body’s natural defences and lead to ageing, the declining of the immune system and the onset of a wide variety of diseases.
• It contains no oxalic acid, an organic compound found in many plants and decaffeinated teas. High amounts of oxalic acid can decrease the body’s mineral absorption.
• It is an excellent thirst-quencher to keep the body hydrated after exercise. The mineral content of Rooibos helps to restore the body’s natural balance after a workout.
• It has a soothing effect on babies suffering from colic, stomach cramps and restlessness.

Endless versatility

As a drink, Rooibos is extremely versatile; it can be enjoyed as a hot drink or as an iced beverage. It can be mixed with fruit juice or cordials and one can even add champagne or red wine to create a unique cocktail. As a caffeine-free alternative, Rooibos espressos and lattes are a great hit.

Sutherlandia Rooibos Iced Tea

If you’re not a fan of hot drinks, this Rooibos Iced Tea is the perfect beverage.

Recipe for Sutherlandia Rooibos Iced Tea

Warming Rooibos Gingerbread ‘Latte’

Naturally sweet Rooibos pairs perfectly with ginger, vanilla and sprinkle of cinnamon.

Recipe for Warming Rooibos Gingerbread ‘Latte’

Cook with Rooibos

Many top South African chefs have embraced Rooibos as part of their signature recipes. The health benefits of it have also been recognised by the food industry, and it is now being used in a wide variety of recipes including desserts, as well as savoury recipes.

Rooibos Crème Brûlée Crêpe Cake

The ultimate crêpe cake ,with layers of deliciousness from the rooibos custard.

Recipe for Rooibos Crème Brûlée Crêpe Cake

Gluten-free Fruit Cobbler infused Blackcurrant Rooibos Tea

Infusing the stewed fruit with blackcurrant rooibos tea perfectly balances the tartness in this cobbler recipe.

Recipe for Gluten-free Fruit Cobbler infused Blackcurrant Rooibos Tea

Rooibos can be enjoyed in many delicious ways. Try this Rooibos Kombucha Tea recipe for double dose of health.