When it comes to green tea, most people think of the widely popular Camellia sinensis plant, from which all traditional teas (green, black, oolong, and white) originate. However, there is another green tea that is growing in popularity—green rooibos tea, made from the Aspalathus linearis plant, native to South Africa. Though both teas are called “green,” they differ in many ways, from how they are grown and processed to their flavor profiles and health benefits. Let’s explore these differences in detail.
Growth and Processing
Green Camellia Sinensis Tea
Camellia sinensis is grown primarily in regions like China, Japan, and India. The tea leaves are harvested while young and tender, then quickly steamed or pan-fried to prevent oxidation, which keeps the leaves green. This minimal processing ensures that green tea retains its high antioxidant levels, which would otherwise degrade if the leaves were allowed to oxidize (as in black tea production). The quality of the tea can vary depending on the region, altitude, and specific cultivar of the Camellia sinensis plant used.
Green Rooibos Tea
Green rooibos, on the other hand, is made from the unoxidized leaves of the rooibos plant, which thrives in the unique climate of the Cederberg region of South Africa. Rooibos is typically processed into red rooibos by allowing the leaves to oxidize. However, for green rooibos, the leaves are harvested and immediately dried to prevent oxidation, similar to how green Camellia sinensis tea is processed. The result is a lighter, more delicate tea with higher antioxidant content than its red counterpart.
Health Benefits
Green Camellia Sinensis Tea
Green tea is well-known for its health benefits, largely due to its high levels of catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a powerful antioxidant. Studies suggest that green tea may support weight management, reduce the risk of certain cancers, improve heart health, and even boost brain function. It also contains moderate levels of caffeine, which can increase alertness without the jitters associated with stronger caffeinated drinks like coffee.
Key health benefits:
- Rich in EGCG for antioxidant effects
- Supports metabolism and fat oxidation
- Improves heart and brain health
- Contains caffeine for mild energy boost
Green Rooibos Tea
Green rooibos tea contains a different profile of antioxidants, primarily aspalathin, a rare flavonoid that is unique to rooibos. Aspalathin has been studied for its anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic properties, making green rooibos an excellent choice for those looking to manage blood sugar levels. Green rooibos is naturally caffeine-free, which makes it a great option for anyone who is sensitive to caffeine or looking for an evening tea that won’t disrupt sleep.
Key health benefits:
- High in aspalathin and other antioxidants
- May help regulate blood sugar and reduce inflammation
- Caffeine-free, making it suitable for all-day consumption
- Supports healthy digestion and hydration
Flavour Profile
Green Camellia Sinensis Tea
The flavour of green Camellia sinensis tea is often described as grassy, vegetal, and slightly astringent, with notes of fresh-cut grass, seaweed, or steamed greens, depending on the variety and region it comes from. The astringency can vary, with some teas offering a pleasant bitterness while others are more delicate and sweet, like Japanese sencha or Chinese dragon well.
Green Rooibos Tea
Green rooibos has a milder, more herbal flavor compared to its fermented red counterpart. It has a slight grassy note but lacks the astringency found in Camellia sinensis. Instead, it’s smoother and slightly sweet, with hints of honey and a refreshing aftertaste. This makes it a good choice for people who prefer a gentler, less bitter tea experience.
Tea Pairings with Food
Green Camellia Sinensis Tea
Green tea’s slightly bitter and grassy flavour pairs well with lighter dishes that don’t overpower the palate. It’s perfect with seafood, salads, rice dishes, and sushi, where the tea’s fresh, umami notes complement the subtle flavors of the food. It also pairs well with fruit, especially citrus or berries, which balance the bitterness with natural sweetness.
Food Pairings:
- Sushi and seafood
- Light salads
- Fruit salads (berries, citrus)
- Rice dishes, steamed vegetables
Green Rooibos Tea
Green rooibos, with its mild sweetness and lack of astringency, pairs well with a wider variety of foods. It can accompany both sweet and savory dishes, making it versatile for pairing with breakfast foods, baked goods, or even spicy cuisine. Since it’s naturally caffeine-free, it’s also great with evening snacks or desserts like fruit tarts or soft cheeses.
Food Pairings:
- Spicy foods (curry, Mexican dishes)
- Baked goods (scones, muffins)
- Mild cheeses
- Light desserts (fruit tarts, yogurt)
While both green Camellia sinensis tea and green rooibos tea share the “green” label, they are distinct in many ways. Green tea is known for its sharp, grassy flavor and caffeine boost, whereas green rooibos offers a softer, naturally sweet taste with no caffeine. Both are packed with antioxidants but differ in their specific health benefits, making each a great option depending on your preferences and wellness goals.
If you are interested in bulk rooibos, or to stock our range of rooibos teas, contact us at tea@carmientea.co.za (South Africa) or charlrudman@carmientea.co.za (exports).