The virtues of Cape red infusion: complete guide

Originating from the Cederberg mountains in South Africa, rooibos infusion is rich in antioxidants. Traditionally, red rooibos is used by the whole family to ease digestion and promote sleep. In Cape Town, it is also credited with virtues against cancer and allergies. This herbal tea is also said to be beneficial against aging and eczema. Discover in this article what are the benefits of rooibos.

Red rooibos, the king of antioxidant infusions

Rooibos, scientifically named aspalathus linearis, contains many polyphenols. These antioxidant molecules exercise a precious power on health. The infusion of the rooibos bush is also rich in phenolic compounds, including quercetin useful against allergies.
The African bush infusion has the advantage of containing neither theine nor caffeine. Its antioxidant power is therefore not disturbed by the stress emanating from these two substances. Its sweet taste is ideal for the whole family. It can be consumed for everyday ailments.

Cape red tea, a traditional drink for digestive comfort

In South Africa, rooibos teas are consumed for digestive discomfort. The organic drink primarily has an astringent effect. It therefore reduces diarrhea. Rooibos also ensures hydration with its water content.
Plants are better tolerated by young children's bodies. Additionally, organic red rooibos can easily be mixed with milk. It is therefore recommended for cases of infant colic.

Rooibos tea for brain aging in particular

The antioxidant properties of the African red drink are also studied for their health benefits on the brain. Rich in polyphenols, rooibos leaves protect cells from oxidative stress. A 2017 study actually proves that the bush infusion protects neurons in case of stroke.
Moreover, the anti-aging effect of the drink is also noticeable on the skin. When applied externally, rooibos gives better skin radiance and protects against free radical damage.

Cape red drink to ward off cancer

Rooibos is also known for having protective effects against cancer. Indeed, its antioxidant properties could prevent DNA mutations. Polyphenol, in particular, is renowned for this health effect.
In reality, studies have shown a possible effect on skin melanoma cancer cells. However, the anticancer benefits of aspalathus linearis teas still need to be demonstrated in "real life" conditions.

Red rooibos, health effects to be proven

Drinking rooibos is a healthy choice. Rich in water, the beverage is also well-provided with antioxidant substances. Due to the absence of theine and caffeine in its composition, it can be consumed by children and pregnant women. This is why the health benefits of the African bush infusion are being studied.
At this stage, scientists have only proven a small part of the plant's infinite possibilities. But the antioxidant properties of the plant appear to have beneficial effects on the liver, sleep, allergies, and skin problems. We await conclusive results on these conditions.

Consuming Cape infusion, recipes to invent

Rooibos is consumed as an infusion. Its taste is naturally sweet, with nutty aromas. It can therefore be consumed plain with just water and leaves in infusion. However, to increase the antioxidant content or to give it a particular flavor, many recipes exist. These recipes blend the infusion with mild or strong spices.

Rooibos and spices to excite the taste buds

Rooibos pairs perfectly with spices from medicinal plants. For a mild version of the drink, spices such as vanilla, cocoa, or cinnamon are ideal. For a stronger version, the herbal tea combines well with chili, pepper, or clove.
These recipes make the plants work in synergy for a more pronounced action on health issues. Those with more fragile constitutions should therefore use them in moderation.

Rooibos and fruits for taste sweetness

Fruits also pair well with rooibos bush. Gentler on the body, these blends gain in virtues. Just like with teas, rooibos can be combined with citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, or grapefruits. Cranberry and berries in general are also very good additions.
The polyphenols in rooibos decrease iron absorption. It is therefore unnecessary to combine the drink with ingredients that contain high amounts of iron. In which case, the iron will be chelated by the drink.