Pronounced "roy-boss" and means "red bush" in Afrikaans. Rooibos is literally red in color. The Rooibos Latin name is aspalathus linearis. Studies have shown this tea is comparable to green tea in the amounts of polyphenols it contains. It shows anti-mutagenic, anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral activity. In fact, it has much more antioxidants of green tea.

Our Organic Rooibos tea is totally pure and natural. It contains no additives, colorants or preservatives. It contains no caffeine, which can be harmful to the central nervous system, causing irritability, high blood pressure and erratic sleep patterns. It is low in tannin, a substance which adversely affects the bodies metabolism by decreasing the absorption of iron and protein. The clean, aromatic flavour of Rooibos can safely be enjoyed in unlimited quantities throughout the day or evening, with no harmful side-effects. In fact, it makes a soothing and relaxing evening tea before sleep!

Rooibos (red tea) is a natural herb unique to the South African Cedarberg Mountains. During the summer months the Rooibos plants are harvested, fermented and dried in nature's laboratory. Pure mineral water, fresh mountain air and the hot African sun induces the change from verdant green to the mahogany red of Rooibos tea. Rich in many essential natural elements - to bring you a delicious elixir that you will grow to love. Enjoyed by native South Africans generation after generation. Rediscovered by botanists in the 18th century, generations enjoyed it for its naturally sweet taste - unaware of the startling powers this wonder of nature possessed nor the wide spectrum of applications we would come to discover. Not until almost 200 years later, in 1968, when South African mother, Annique Theron, stumbled across this plant's natural healing properties and ability to soothe and pacify her young child. Annique went on to investigate and document its amazing health promoting properties. She set out to share her discovery with others and spread the good news of Mother Nature's Lullaby. Today her unique findings of this remarkable herbal remedy, have been scientifically researched and have proved to be beneficial not just to babies, but to all ages.

Initially, Rooibos was harvested as the wild-growing "Aspalathus Linearis" plants by chopping them with axes and then bruising them with hammers, leaving them to ferment in heaps, before drying them in the sun. Today, the basic method of Rooibos production from planting to harvesting is largely unchanged. However, the plants are cultivated rather than collected from the wild. In addition, production methods are far more mechanized and refined. Vast improvements in production technology and stringent quality control now ensure a superior quality product every step of the way, from seed to finished product. About 18 months after seedlings are planted, they become fully-grown and are ready for harvesting. Plants are harvested once a year during mid-summer. Cut Rooibos is bound in sheaves and milled to a uniform length, then bruised between rollers to trigger the important chemical process (fermentation) which results in the characteristic amber color, distinctive flavor and sweet aroma of Rooibos. Following fermentation, the Rooibos is spread thinly over large drying yards to dry in the hot South African sun after which it is sucked up by special vacuums. At this stage the product is generally referred to as "farm tea". At Rooibos Limited, we sort and grade the product according to length, color and flavor.

Rooibos (red tea) helps delay the aging process! The aging of our bodies is caused by toxic compounds called free radicals which are produced as a by-product of normal cell function. These free radicals attack our healthy cells. Over our lifetime this damage contributes to aging and our immune system weakens. Recently, Japanese scientists have found that Rooibos tea contains a mimic of the enzyme Super Oxide Dismutase (S.O.D.), an antioxidant which attacks the free radicals and limits their damaging effects.

Rooibos (red tea) helps to relieve stomach ulcers, nausea, constipation, and heartburn.

Rooibos before you get ready for bed to ensure a good night's sleep! Rooibos has been found to help with insomnia, disturbed sleeping patterns and headaches. It contains no caffeine and has a relaxing effect on the central nervous system.

Rooibos (red tea) helps to give you strong bones and teeth because of its calcium, manganese and fluoride content.

Rooibos (red tea) helps pacify infants with colic, stomach cramps and sleeping problems. Simply mix some Rooibos tea with expressed breast milk or formula. It is 100% natural with no colorants or preservatives. It is a mother's miracle.

Rooibos (red tea) contains alpha hydroxy acid and zinc for healthy, smooth skin. This wonder tea is especially useful when applied to skin irritations like itchy skin, eczema, sunburns, diaper rash and acne.

Rooibos (red tea) contains magnesium which is necessary for a healthy nervous system.

Rooibos (red tea) increases the absorption of iron in the body.

Rooibos (red tea) contains potassium and copper minerals that are necessary for several metabolic functions.

Rooibos (red tea) is often prescribed for nervous tension and mild depression as it makes a relaxing sedative.

Rooibos (red tea) contains no oxalic acid and can therefore be enjoyed by persons suffering from kidney stones.

Rooibos (red tea) helps to control your appetite thus can be beneficial in weight loss.

Rooibos (red tea) helps you recoup after a hangover.