Did you know that Rooibos is a herb that is exclusively grown in the Western Cape? More than a refreshing tea that helps you start your day on a good note or helps you calm down after a long day, Rooibos has some great health benefits—all thanks to a complex mix of antioxidants. Here are a few benefits that will get you stocking up your shelves with rooibos tea.

 

It has the potential to tackle heart disease

Every year, 8.76 million people (worldwide) die from cardiovascular disease—this is according to Professor Amanda Swart from the Biochemistry Department at Stellenbosch University. Research has found that the antioxidants compounds found in rooibos, particularly aspalathin, can counter the inflammation that is associated with heart disease. The antioxidants found in rooibos protect the body against cell damage, thereby reducing inflammation. The SA Rooibos Council is confident that soon cardiologists from all over the world could be prescribing rooibos as part of the therapeutic approach to tackle cardiovascular disease.  “Given the overwhelming body of evidence that exists, rooibos’ potential, in both alleviating CVD in sufferers and lowering the risk of developing heart disease, is irrefutable,” remarks Prof Swart.

 

 

It’s great for your skin

As we have mentioned above, rooibos has powerful antioxidants that have many health benefits. If you want to have radiant skin that will make you look forever young, you need to incorporate rooibos into your beauty regiment. Rooibos contains alpha hydroxy acid, which is used by dermatologists in treatments such as skin peels. Instead of breaking the bank on such treatments, you can simply drink more rooibos or you can try these homemade treatments:

 

Rooibos Toner:

– Add one rooibos teabag to a cup of boiled water and let it steep for 15 minutes.

– Add in 30ml of apple cider vinegar and leave it to cool.

– Once it has cooled, add it to a glass jar and store it in the fridge.

– When you’re ready to tone your skin, stir the mix, moisten some cotton wool and gently apply it to your skin.

 

Rooibos Face Mask:

– Mix a warm cup of strong rooibos tea, one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar and two teaspoons of raw oats.

– Let it cool until it becomes lukewarm, apply it all over your face and lie down.

– Keep the mask on for at least 15 minutes before rinsing it off with lukewarm water.

To dry your face, gently press down with a hand towel.

 

Rooibos Steam:

– Add 750ml of hot water and three rooibos teabags to a big bowl.

– Let the tea brew for 5 minutes.

– Drape a towel over your head and gently lean over the bowl, allowing the steam to open and cleanse your pores for up to 10 minutes.

– Once you’re done, rinse your face with cold water.

These treatments will help reduce acne and wrinkles, leaving your skin feeling radiant and fresh

 

 

Rooibos can help alleviate pain

Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, rooibos can soothe aches and pain. The anti-spasmodic compounds in rooibos tea help to ease stomach pain by enacting potassium particles all through the body. By lessening inflammation, rooibos tea can likewise help in treating the agonizing symptoms of joint pain.

 

For more info on rooibos’ benefits or heart-healthy Rooibos recipes, visit www.sarooibos.co.za 

 

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