Rooibos Benefits & Uses

Rooibos, also known as "Red Bush" tea, is an herbal tea native to South Africa. Unlike most teas (such as black, green and oolong), which come from camellia plants, rooibos comes from the Aspalathus linearis plant. Its leaves are green, but when oxidized the leaves turn red, giving the tea a distinctive appearance. The main use of this herb is brewed tea, which has a variety of health benefits.

Naturally Caffeine Free

• Rooibos tea is naturally caffeine free, which means that you can drink a cup before bed without worrying that it will keep you awake. Since it lacks caffeine, people with heart conditions and expectant mothers can safely drink this tea.

Great for the Skin

• Rooibos tea contains a variety of antioxidants and flavonoids, including alpha hydroxy acid, which help control free radicals in your body. Free radicals can lead to premature aging of the skin, so this tea can help keep your skin looking young. This benefit applies to drinking the tea, but you can also apply the tea directly to the skin; many people claim that when used this way, the tea helps prevent and treat acne, sunburn and eczema.

Soothes Cramps and Colic

• Studies suggest that rooibos contains an antispasmodic agent that can help relieve cramps and relax muscles. Many mothers use this property of the tea to ease colic and stomach discomfort in their infants by mixing the tea with milk and bottle-feeding it to their children. The soothing properties of the tea may also pass along through breast milk.

Vitamin and Mineral Rich

• Rooibos tea contains a wide variety of vitamins and minerals to keep the body healthy. These include iron, which prevents anemia; calcium, manganese and fluoride for strong teeth and bones; and zinc, copper, magnesium and potassium, which are all vital minerals needed throughout the body.

Other Benefits

• Along with the benefits described above, some studies and South African tradition suggest that rooibos has even more helpful qualities. Along with other types of tea, rooibos contains polyphenols, shown to have anticarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and antiviral qualities. Rooibos may help relieve insomnia and help relieve hay fever and asthma. Finally, rooibos is very low in oxalic acid, a compound that can cause problems for people with kidney stones, so those who suffer from this problem can drink it safely.