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Rooibos tea is an herbal tea that is derived from the Aspalathus linearis shrub, cultivated solely in the Western Cape of South Africa. Rooibos tea is caffeine-free, therefore, it is devoid of the side effects that come with too much caffeine consumption, which include, anxiety, overstimulation, and heart palpitations. Thus, this tea acts as an effective alternative to black tea and green tea, both of which comprise certain amounts of caffeine.
Rooibos tea is also low in tannin levels, which is a compound that has been found to limit the intake of certain essential nutrients, such as iron. For this reason, rooibos tea is generally considered a much healthier substitute to green tea and black tea. Being rich in antioxidants, this tea also possesses a number of health benefits, including boosting heart health and helping manage diabetes. Take a look at some of the health benefits of consuming rooibos tea.
Boosts Heart Health
According to a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2011, rooibos tea is known to regulate the cholesterol levels in one’s body. Regular consumption of this tea helps reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) which is regarded as “bad cholesterol” as it increases the threat of heart disease and stroke. Simultaneously, this tea is believed to boost high-density lipoprotein (HDL) which is considered “good cholesterol” as it absorbs the cholesterol in the blood, carries it to the liver, from where it is flushed out, thus lowering the risk of cardiovascular conditions, such as heart attacks and strokes.
Reduces the Risk of Cancer
Rooibos tea comprises the antioxidants quercetin and luteolin, which according to Anticancer Research, 2002, have been found to kill cancer cells and prohibit tumour growth. In general, as already noted above, rooibos tea is abundant in antioxidants, which are known to combat free radicals; free radicals are compounds that cause cancer. In this way, the daily intake of rooibos tea may help reduce the risk of cancer.
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Helps Manage Diabetes
Rooibos tea is teeming with an antioxidant known as aspalathin, which is believed to be beneficial for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes. This particular antioxidant is favoured as it has been found to regulate blood sugar levels and decrease the resistance to insulin, having a potentially positive impact for people suffering from or at the threat of Type 2 diabetes.
May Support Bone Health
Rooibos tea possesses nutrients and minerals, including fluoride, calcium, and manganese, all of which are instrumental in the maintenance of bone health. The antioxidant properties of rooibos tea also contribute to the preservation of bone health as antioxidants typically aid in the quick repair and recovery of cells and muscles. Additionally, certain rooibos tea compounds have exhibited estrogenic activity, which could also potentially improve bone health as estrogen helps in sustaining bone density.
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Aids in Weight Management
Rooibos tea has little to no calories, therefore, it is recommended over other strains of tea for people looking to lose or manage weight. Consumption of this tea has also been found to increase one’s leptin levels, which is a hormone that acts as an appetite suppressor; its curbs one’s appetite by killing hunger pangs, therefore, helping support weight management.
