5 Unexpected Benefits of Rooibos Tea

Rooibos tea – sometimes referred to by its English name “red bush”- is a lesser-known yet well-loved tea variety. The South African plant doesn’t just taste great, but it’s also packed full of health benefits. Take a look at the reasons why the delicious drink deserves a spot in your tea cupboard!

Skip the Caffeine

AR PhotosHut/Shutterstock: Take a break from caffeine

Feeling like a break from caffeine? It can be difficult to give up hot drinks, so a cup of rooibos serves as a great alternative to black or green tea. Yes, it can even replace your morning coffee if you’re ready to take the leap! Instead of opting for decaf, why not give a naturally caffeine-free cup of rooibos a try?

Antioxidants in Abundance

Many kinds of tea boast of high levels of antioxidants, but there’s one in particular that sets rooibos apart. Reportedly, rooibos is the world’s only plant that contains an organic chemical compound called aspalathin. The compound is said to have antioxidant properties, as well as antidiabetic and cardioprotective effects. Most often the tea is fermented first which sadly reduces the number of antioxidants, so keep an eye out for the unfermented kind if you want to make the most of this property!

Help with Weight Maintenance

Motortion Films/Shutterstock: Weight Maintenance

If you’re looking for a helping hand in maintaining your weight, rooibos can be the ideal substitute as it contains essentially no calories. There’s no need to add milk or sugar as the tea is delicious on its own, plus it makes for a super refreshing choice. Additionally, studies suggest rooibos helps increase the body’s leptin levels – the hormone that regulates hunger.

Make Bones Stronger

Alex Yuzhakov/Shutterstock: Increased bone health

Studies are still being conducted, but many have found a link between drinking rooibos tea and increased bone health. One study even suggested the tea may assist the cells associated with healthy bone growth and density!

Balance Your Cholesterol

For those of us who struggle with heart disease, proper cholesterol management is an imperative part of daily life. Even if you don’t suffer from cardiovascular problems, it’s important to keep on top of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ cholesterol. That’s where rooibos steps in! Studies show that adding six cups of rooibos to your daily routine can aid in dropping bad cholesterol and improving high cholesterol, particularly for those who are at high risk of heart disease. Okay, so six cups might sound like a lot, but it’s a pretty simple step towards a healthier lifestyle!