It is widely known that drinking tea has many health benefits, but are you tired of drinking the standard black or green tea? If you want to add some variety to your tea collection, there’s a new up and coming tea called rooibos tea. Rooibos tea is an herbal, caffeine-free tea that comes from South Africa. With health claims boasting to improve your heart and reduce your cancer risk, this antioxidant packed tea is something worth trying.
Being relatively new to the market there hasn’t been extensive research regarding its health benefits and more studies are needed. What we do know is that some evidence has suggested that rooibos tea can reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol. This tea is also a good option for people with kidney problems because it contains no oxalic acid, which increases the risk of kidney stones. Along with these health benefits, rooibos tea contains rare nutrients called quercetin and bioflavanoids that help in blood circulation and prevent hemorrhaging.
If you thought the taste would have to suffer for all these health benefits, think again. Rooibos tea is low in tannins so it’s never bitter and is naturally sweet. With a mild, aromatic taste it’s the perfect tea to have with breakfast, drink before bed or even consume chilled during warmer weather. It has a longer steep time so make sure to leave it in hot water for at least five minutes.
The next time you are browsing through the tea section at the store, pick up a box of rooibos tea for a chance to experience all of these great benefits.
Written by: Christina Jung, Wellness Workdays Dietetic Intern Sources: