Rooibos, commonly but incorrectly called red tea, is a drink native to South Africa. Traditionally enjoyed with milk, it is equally delicious on its own. Rooibos forms the base of many herbal infusions, beloved for their delicate flavours and complete absence of caffeine.
Organic rooibos is called a "tea" only by convention, since it contains absolutely no caffeine. This is actually one of its greatest strengths: it can be enjoyed at any time of day, and is perfectly suited to those who need to avoid caffeine, including pregnant women. In this complete guide, discover all the benefits of this beloved South African drink, which has long since crossed borders to find fans around the world. Origins, history, varieties and preparation: we share all the secrets of rooibos.
Rooibos: closer to a herbal infusion than a tea
The term "red tea" gives a misleading impression of what rooibos actually is. In reality, rooibos, derived from the Aspalathus linearis plant, shares nothing with tea, which comes from the Camellia sinensis shrub. It differs from tea in its low tannin content and its complete absence of caffeine. For this reason, rooibos sits far closer to herbal infusions than to true teas.
It is called red tea simply as a shorthand, and also because once brewed, the drink turns a deep red. Rooibos comes in an endless range of flavours, much like tea itself, and its preparation is quite similar, which is why the confusion is so common. If you have never tried rooibos, know that it makes a wonderful alternative to tea, particularly in the late afternoon or evening, when you want something warming without the stimulating effects of caffeine. It is simply steeped in hot water, and that is all it takes.
Rooibos: a distinctive flavour with notes of hazelnut
In terms of taste, South African rooibos bears little resemblance to tea. It has no bitterness whatsoever, even after a long steep. On the contrary, rooibos is naturally sweet, with a delicate hazelnut character. It is a very gentle drink that lends itself beautifully to indulgent blends: think vanilla, fruits or flowers. It also features in blends crafted for relaxation or digestive comfort. And since it contains no caffeine, rooibos can be enjoyed throughout the day.
Rooibos comes in a wide spectrum of aromas, to suit every mood and palate. In South Africa, it is traditionally served with milk and sugar. But as its natural taste is already gently sweet, you can easily skip the sugar entirely, making it just as fitting for a balanced lifestyle. Rooibos is wonderful on its own or blended with other flavours for something truly unique. It pairs beautifully with fruits such as orange or apple, and it can even add a special touch to a dessert.
What exactly is rooibos?
Once oxidised and dried, the leaves of Aspalathus linearis form needle-like pieces of varying lengths, taking on a characteristic red hue. This is what we call rooibos, or red tea. This wonderful drink comes exclusively from South Africa, the only place in the world where the plant is cultivated, on plantations at mid-altitude.
Naturally rich in antioxidants, rooibos is, like green or black tea, an excellent ally for your wellbeing. The lightly fermented leaves are presented as fine pieces, to be steeped in hot water. Rooibos can then be enjoyed hot or cold, according to your preference, and even in the evening, making it ideal for those who are sensitive to the sleep-disrupting effects of caffeine.
Traditional red rooibos: a centuries-old drink
Red rooibos has been consumed for centuries by indigenous communities, who have long attributed many virtues to it. It is the traditional drink of South Africa.
Organic rooibos is harvested during the first three months of the year, which corresponds to summer in South Africa. The plant lives on average seven years, and the first harvest is only possible after a year and a half of growth. Once harvested, the leaves are lightly moistened and left to oxidise for between 8 and 24 hours. It is during this stage that they take on their signature red-orange colour. The leaves then dry in the sun before being sterilised, packaged, and eventually making their way into your cup.
Green rooibos: an even higher antioxidant content
A more recent arrival, green rooibos is simply rooibos that has undergone no oxidation. Its flavour is quite different, and its antioxidant content is even higher.
Like tea, rooibos comes in several varieties. Green rooibos is a newer addition to the market and is winning over a growing number of enthusiasts. It is a dried, unfermented rooibos that offers amplified benefits. The harvest process is the same, but green rooibos is not oxidised and dries without the addition of water. Its antioxidant levels are considerably higher, making it a truly valuable wellness ally. Its taste is slightly more tart and tangy, but the health benefits are all the greater for it.
Honeybush: a close cousin of rooibos
Honeybush is a relative of rooibos, also belonging to the Fabaceae family. It has a characteristic honey-like taste, which gives it the Afrikaans name Heuningbos, literally meaning "honey bush".
Less well known than rooibos, honeybush has plenty of its own remarkable qualities. This caffeine-free infusion with its gentle honeyed character is known for its digestive, calming and antioxidant properties. Honeybush is also rich in trace elements and minerals. Its benefits are numerous: it can help ease the discomforts of menopause, neutralise free radicals in our cells, and has a positive effect on the ageing process.