Rooibos is known for its richness of flavonoids and its lack of physiologically active chemicals, such as caffeine. It also does not have the harshness of common tea because it is low in tannins. These properties make it a preferred substitute for common tea. Despite its long-term use as a medicinal herb, there is not enough information from human studies to confirm the efficacy of rooibos. Consult with your doctor before taking rooibos.
Identification and Dosing
Rooibos tea is also known as red bush tea. The leaves of the plant are ground and brewed as a tea. According to Wellness.com, there is no officially recommended safe or effective dose of rooibos. However, the tea is commonly taken by adding one teabag or one teaspoon of rooibos in 8 ounces of hot water.
Medicinal Uses
According to Wellness.com, rooibos contains fluoride, calcium and manganese, which aid in building strong bones and teeth. Rooibos also has chemicals, called polyphenols, that may help to fight cancer, reduce inflammation and boost the immune system. Rooibos may also help to prevent cardiovascular disease and stroke. The alpha hydroxy in rooibos possibly help to fight the aging process. Flavonoids have anti-inflammatory activity and help relieve bronchial spasms which are helpful for managing conditions such as asthma and allergies.
Effectiveness
There is not enough reliable scientific information to rate the effectiveness of rooibos for any health condition. Presently, rooibos is being studied for its anti-cancer effects and for prevention of age-related brain damage, reports Drugs.com.
Considerations
According to Wellness.com, rooibos is generally safe when taken as a tea in food amounts. However, rooibos may cause allergic reactions especially if you already have an allergy to Aspalathus linearis, or related plants in the Fabaceae/Leguminosae family, such as peas, soybeans, clover, and peanuts, warns Wellness.com. There has been an isolated report of salmonella poisoning from drinking rooibos tea, says Wellness.com. Rooibos should be avoided during pregnancy or lactation due to lack of information about its safety.
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