Rooibos Research_A Multi Wonder

It is well known that the benefits of Rooibos tea extend far beyond the seams of the actual teabag. Worldwide scientific research was done on this indigenous South African herb, Rooibos, over the past 20 years.

Rooibos is believed to quickly replace sodium lost through sweating. The tea has also become a respectable alternative to cold refreshments for sportsmen, manual workers or other people who suffer under high physical strain, due to the proportion of mineral nutrients and micro nutrients in Rooibos.

Flavonoids in Rooibos work as antioxidants - a major protagonist in preventing cancer, as well as in slowing down its progress. Research found that, as a major cause of cancer is damage of the genetic material, the rising level of glutathione associated with Rooibos tea could prevent genetic damages from happening.
Due to a polyphenic-rich extract in Rooibos, this indicates potential for use in cosmeceuticals for sun protection and as part of a strategy for preventing non-melanoma skin cancers in humans.

Scientists believe that antioxidants in Rooibos significantly elevate antioxidant levels in blood, boosting the body’s internal defence system against disease. Antioxidants protect the body from the harmful effects of free radicals.

Studies show that the tea could possibly slow the ageing process, including the progression of dementia.

A study in Japan found that aspalathin in Rooibos tea helped to improve the glucose uptake of muscle cells in type 2 diabetes, thus helping to maintain normal blood sugar levels.

Rooibos can help to fight allergies by boosting the production of cytochrome P450, an important enzyme that helps to metabolise allergens. Japanese researchers found that when Rooibos is consumed regularly as a beverage, it helps to improve allergy status as a result of the increased levels of this enzyme in the body.

Anecdotal evidence also suggests that Rooibos acts as a digestive aid and antispasmodic, thereby relieving stomach cramps and colic in babies, as well as symptoms associated with pancreatic sufferers.

Rooibos is also used to relieve nervous tension and stomach and bowel irritation, easing the painful symptoms of urinary system diseases such as prostatitis and cystitis.

Rooibos helps to soothe skin irritations and is also excellent for skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or dermatitis. It helps to soothe nappy rash and improves acne. Rooibos tea contains no harmful chemicals or preservatives, which may produce allergic reactions or further skin damage. Rooibos contains zinc, which is essential to the skin’s metabolism, as well as its own natural alphahydroxy acid, which is believed to smooth and refine fine lines and wrinkles.