MORE ABOUT ROOIBOS (Pronounced Roy boss)
The Other "Red" Tea

Available in our On-Line Shop

ABOUT THE PLANT

Description: A hardy herbal shrub like plant native to South Africa.

Geography: Grown in one of the richest botanical areas in the world.
A 100-kilometer radius that extends around the small flatland village of Clanwilliam in the Western Cape region of South Africa.

Growing Conditions: Sandy soil with a high acid content and sparse, but consistent rainfall.

HISTORY

• 1960's Awareness of soothing qualities
  
  
• 20th century - Russian Immigrant pioneered curing and packaging methods
  
  
• 1993-Rooibos Ltd. was founded
  
  
• 1993- Exportation to the US began when the U.S. Comprehensive Antiapartheid Act was repealed and sanctions on South Africa were lifted.

HEALTH BENEFITS

Research by Healthy and Natural Journal suggests that Rooibos antioxidant qualities are up to 50 times more potent than green tea's.

It has been prescribed for: nervous tension - allergies - digestive problems - insomnia - stomach cramps

Note: Also, as all herbals Rooibos is caffeine free

CHARACTER

Body like black tea, as many antioxidants as green tea and the versatility of the best herbals (Fresh Cup Magazine Tea Almanac 2001)

Iron, potassium, calcium, copper, zinc, manganese and sodium. (low in tannins which can inhibit the absorption of protein and iron)

FLAVOR:

Very similar to black tea in body an depth without potential bitterness.

GRADING

Choice - suitable for loose-leaf

Super - suitable for loose-leaf, blending and manufacturing extracts

BREWING SUGGESTIONS:

Pour boiling water over leaves for as long as you wish.

Steeping Time: Up to 10 minutes!

Note: some researchers have found that it's best to brew for more than 10 minutes for the highest antioxidant activity.

Great News: Unlike "true" tea Rooibos never grows bitter with over-steeping and unlike most herbals Rooibos will never become tart from over-steeping.

Available in our On-Line Shop