Rooibos grows in Cederberg Mountains of South Africa and on a bush that is very unlike traditional tea plants. Rooibos tea has gained popularity in America in recent years, as people want to take advantage of its medicinal properties to prevent serious illnesses. It is a good source of minerals like Calcium, Copper, Zinc, Iron, Potassium, and Magnesium.
Health Benefits of Drinking Rooibos Tea
- Rooibos tea is rich in polyphenols antioxidants including aspalathin and nothofagin. The polyphenols in rooibos tea have anti-inflammatory properties, which assists in preventing heart-related illnesses, boost immune system, protect the body from common colds, viruses, and the flu.
- Rooibos tea is very good for diabetics. It contains a rare antioxidant aspalathin balance blood sugar spikes and improves insulin resistance in the body.
- In many parts of South Africa, red tea is used as an effective curative to treat allergies like eczema, hay fever, and allergy-related bronchitis.
- Drinking Rooibos Tea also has been linked to lower blood pressure and cholesterol. It contains antioxidants called Chysoeriol which improve circulation by preventing the activity of the enzyme that triggers cardiovascular disease.
- Rooibos is very good at pregnancy and for those who are anemic because it may help with the absorption of iron and other nutrients.
- Due to a high level of dominant antioxidants and anti-mutagenic (anti-cancer) properties of Rooibos tea, it defends cells & DNA against damage and inhibits them from developing into cancer.
- Drinking rooibos tea can protect against a process known as lipid periodization in which free radicals damage brain cells and nerve tissue. And the prolonged effect of this eventually to progressive and deteriorating brain disease, such as Alzheimer’s.
How to make rooibos tea?
Ingredients:
1.5-litre jug
1.2 liters boiled water
3 rooibos tea bags
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup apple juice (or any fruit juice of your choice)
Juice of half a lemon
1 stick of ginger, peeled and ‘bruised’ (just use the edge of a spoon) so that the flavors can escape
2-3 sprigs of fresh mint, also bruised
Direction:
-Pour boiling water into the jug over all the ingredients, let the tea brew for 3-4 minutes before removing the tea bags.
-Leave to cool and serve with lots of ice and mint leaves.
-You can add more honey if it’s not sweet enough for you.(Optional)
Sources:
–http://afoodieliveshere.co.za/recipes/afternoon-tea/rooibos-ginger-iced-tea/
–http://www.undergroundhealth.com/10-amazing-health-benefits-of-rooibos-tea/
–http://www.theteatalk.com/rooibos-tea-health-benefits.html
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