Green Rooibos is a less fermented variation of red Rooibos. This South African herbal infusion is known for its lighter, more delicate flavour. While sharing the same medicinal properties as its red counterpart, green Rooibos is richer in antioxidants. Here is a closer look at this health-friendly infusion, still relatively unknown to the general public.
Explore our Green Rooibos
What is green Rooibos?
Rooibos is a shrub native to South Africa, known scientifically as aspalathus linearis. It grows wild in the Cederberg mountains, and its leaves carry the reddish hue characteristic of the drink.
One of Rooibos's defining traits is that it grows nowhere else in the world, which partly explains its price.
To produce green Rooibos, the leaves are sun-dried and then roughly cut. They are stored in a resealable pouch before making their way to your cup. For red Rooibos, the leaves go through a fermentation process that deepens their colour and gives them a sweeter, richer taste.
What makes green Rooibos different?
Because green Rooibos leaves are not fermented, they retain a more favourable nutritional profile than their red counterpart.
According to specialists, for an equivalent weight, green Rooibos is richer in:
- antioxidants;
- vitamin C;
- minerals.
A green Rooibos infusion yields a beautiful golden hue and a fresh, clean aroma reminiscent of green teas. It can sometimes carry a lightly tangy note as well. Green Rooibos also blends well with other botanicals for creative recipes. To preserve its subtle flavour, it should always be stored in a resealable pouch.
What are the health benefits of Rooibos?
Specialists are in broad agreement: Rooibos offers meaningful benefits for wellbeing. This herbal infusion is rich in antioxidants and is completely free from theine and caffeine, making it a gentle choice at any time of day, including before bed. As an added bonus, its tannin content is very low.
Benefits may vary slightly depending on origin, but this organic botanical drink is generally known to support:
- digestive comfort;
- restful sleep;
- vascular health.
Rooibos can bring quick relief for digestive spasms, though more persistent concerns call for patience and consistency. For ongoing issues, guidance from a specialist is always advisable. A herbalist can also suggest targeted blends combining Rooibos with other plants or spices.
How to prepare your green Rooibos
Organic Rooibos is always sourced from Africa, so the quality of the final product depends on how it is bought and handled along the way. The plant's origin should be certified, and the ingredient list should contain nothing but aspalathus linearis.
Loose-leaf organic Rooibos is the best option. It should be kept in a resealable pouch to preserve its flavour. Tea bags tend to contain finely ground plant material, which dulls the taste considerably. Loose-leaf also offers better value for money.
Water matters, too. Spring water is generally considered the best choice; mineral waters with a strong flavour of their own can interfere with the Rooibos aroma.
For a pure, natural cup, steep green Rooibos for 8 minutes in water at 100°C. Steeping longer will darken the golden hue and intensify the flavour, though unlike tea, it will never turn bitter.
How to enjoy your green Rooibos
Organic green Rooibos pairs beautifully with a wide range of spices and citrus zests.
Creating a flavoured Rooibos at home is quite simple: a handful of fruit or spices is all it takes to craft your own blend. If inspiration runs short, a quick online order with fast delivery will do the trick. Just make sure your products come in a resealable pouch to lock in the aromas.
When experimenting with blends, the weight of aspalathus linearis should always exceed that of the other ingredients. Peach Rooibos is currently a favourite among tea lovers, but ultimately, your own palate is the best guide.
With a splash of milk, this organic infusion makes a wonderfully comforting alternative to a classic cup of tea. It is equally lovely enjoyed with family alongside a peach tart or a light sponge cake.
To taste it is to love it : find our rooibos shop, harvested in South Africa.
