Rooibos is probably most known for its high antioxidant levels, which brings us all year-round health benefits but especially so in winter when our immune systems need that extra boost.
What exactly are antioxidants? Antioxidants are molecules that boost the immune system. They do so by protecting cells from harmful molecules called free radicals. When free radicals accumulate, they can promote a state known as oxidative stress, which has been linked to many chronic diseases. Studies have shown that rooibos has potent antioxidant, antiviral and immunomodulating effects, which enhance the body’s natural defence system.
Rooibos is packed with polyphenols, which are micronutrients with antioxidant activity. Polyphenols act as scavengers of free radicals throughout the body, which are detrimental by-products of cell metabolism that can cause a host of ailments. Aspalatin and nothafagin are two vital antioxidants found in Rooibos tea, making it a great beverage to boost immunity, whilst protecting the body against all types of diseases.
Research and the growing demand for speciality teas that are highly functional in improving health have led to the development of our highly popular and aptly named rooibos blend, Boost, an immune-boosting tea with added Vitamin C and Zinc to help combat winter colds and flu. This hydrating rooibos tea helps to improve immune cell functioning due to the addition of powerful, natural ingredients: Echinacea, Ginger, Ascorbic acid (Vit C), Glycerine and Zinc bisglycinate.
Echinacea is a group of flowering plants used as a popular herbal remedy. They’re linked to many health benefits, such as reduced inflammation, improved immunity and lower blood sugar levels. A study done on Echinacea Purpurea for the long-term prevention of Viral Respiratory Tract Infections during the Covid-19 Pandemic, it demonstrated strong antiviral activity against enveloped viruses by substantially reducing virus loads in infected subjects.
Ginger is loaded with antioxidants, compounds that prevent stress and damage to your body’s DNA. They assist your body in fighting chronic diseases like high blood pressure, heart disease, and diseases of the lungs, promote healthy ageing and relieve inflammation.
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that strengthens your body’s natural defences. Vitamin C supplements help improve the absorption of iron from the diet. Vitamin C assists in converting iron that is poorly absorbed, such as plant-based sources of iron, into a form that is easier to absorb.
Zinc, a nutrient found throughout your body, helps your immune system and metabolism function.
“Both Vitamin C and zinc play important roles in nutrition, immune defence and maintenance of health. Intake of both is often inadequate, even in affluent populations. In view of the burden associated with the common cold, studies have found that supplementation with vitamin C plus zinc may represent an efficacious measure, with a good safety profile, against this infectious viral disease”.
It is evident that rooibos tea warrants more than just our fleeting consideration. After water, it is the most-consumed drink in the world. Roughly, 25 000 cups of tea are poured every second across the globe, which amounts to a staggering 2.16 billion cups per day!
With the increasing emergence of potent wellness blends (such as Boost) rooibos is fast becoming even more essential as it shifts from a mere cuppa to part of our medicine cabinet.