The wonders of Rooibos.

Rooibos, with its healing properties, was possibly one of South Africa’s best hidden secrets until 2000, when it suddenly gained popularity with the international market. In 1904, a Russian settler, Benjamin Ginsberg, a member of a famous tea family, realized the potential of this unassuming bush. Rooibos is processed today much in the same way that it was in 1904, the system has just been refined and is far more mechanized. 

Rooibos is widely known for the antioxidants it possesses, namely its health boosting polyphenols and contains aspalathin. Some studies have even shown that rooibos could possibly slow the ageing process and could even have a hand in slowing the progression of dementia. It may even prevent skin, liver and oeseophageal cancer and lower the risk of heart disease. Unfortunately, at this point in time no research has been done on humans to confirm these benefits.

Rooibos has been deemed responsible in fighting allergies as it boosts the production of cytochrome P450, which is an enzyme that helps to metabolise allergens. Japanese researchers have found that when rooibos is consumed regularly as a beverage it helps to improve levels of this enzyme in the body, thus diminishing the allergy.

It has not been tested but is widely believed that Rooibos acts as a digestive aid and anti-spasmodic, for this reason it is often used to relieve stomache cramps and colic in babies. It is also believed that it soothes skin irritations when applied directly to the affected area and boosts the immune system.

Due its low tannin content, rooibos doesn’t inhibit the absorption of iron like other teas, it is also virtually kilojoules and caffeine free and contains no colorants or preservatives.

Rooibos skin products are widely used and can be found at many Camps Bay luxury spas. Camps Bay is one of the most up market areas in Cape Town, so when guests find their Camps Bay rental is stocked with rooibos products, they can rest assured that it is a quality product. Many a rented Camps Bay house or Camps Bay villa, are stocked with luxury rooibos skincare products.