If you are currently taking red bush tea, otherwise known as rooibos tea, for the treatment of a minor health ailment, then you should know about the side effects associated with the herb. According to the University of Michigan Health System, red bush tea is often prescribed for the treatment of indigestion or heartburn, in addition to other digestive system disorders. However, minor side effects have been seen in some supplement users.
Concerns with Pregnancy
As with many new medications or herbal supplements, there is always a concern regarding supplement use by women who are pregnant or may become pregnant. According to the University of Michigan Health System, there is no documentation as of June 2010 to clarify the risks associated with expectant mothers taking red bush tea for the treatment of indigestion, heart burn, or any other medical ailment. The concern regarding pregnancy and taking an herbal supplement is the risk of passing the supplement on to the unborn child. As a result, it is strongly suggested that you check with your medical doctor before consuming red bush tea if you are currently pregnant.
Breathing Problems
According to PDRHealth.com, another side effect that you may experience after taking red bush tea supplements is difficulty breathing. These breathing issues may present themselves in the form of chest pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath, or swollen chest according to the website. These reactions can be the direct result of a specific allergy to either the red bush tea itself or any of the many active ingredients within the herbal supplement in product form. If you experience any of these symptoms, the website strongly suggests stopping treatment and seeking immediate medical attention from a licensed medical professional.
Skin Irritation
Red bush tea can also cause skin irritation in supplement users. According to PDRHealth.com, types of skin irritation that you can experience from taking the supplement include skin rash, redness, skin hives, itchy skin patches, and even swollen skin. As with difficulty breathing or chest problems, the irritated skin can be the result of either an allergy to the red bush tea herb itself or a reaction to any of the additives in most herbal supplements. While more research needs to be conducted in order to determine the overall risk of these effects, you should be aware that there have been no major adverse effects documented as of June 2010.
Member Comments
itchypeely April 21
I am experiencing itchy hands and on one foot. The hands initially looked like hives or bits, then red rashes followed by blisters and peeling. Deep soreness inside the hands and on ball of foot. I have been treated for tinea, then dermatitis, with a multitude of creams- steroid and antifungal over the past few weeks. Nothing seems to work.
However - something I started drinking about 6 weeks ago is Rooibos tea. I just read one of the side effects (although mentioned nowhere else that I can see) and wonder if this is the cause.