How to Understand the Medicinal Uses of Rooibos Tea

Sometimes, I find herbal remedies in surprising places. One of my favorite "pleasure teas," as it turns out, is also a valuable medicine.

Rooibos tea, or Aspalathus linearis, is now widely available in the supermarket. It has a mild flavor and blends well with flavorings such as caramel and vanilla, making it a perfect dessert alternative. I've been enjoying it this way for quite some time.

This is a traditional medicine for two indigenous groups that are native to South Africa--the Bushmen and the Hottentots. The herb has since gained world wide favor as a common table tea. The tea has a mild flavor and lower tannin content. The tannins in black tea are responsible for the bitter flavor

Things You'll Need

• Rooibos tea bag of choice
• Hot water
• Flavoring such as vanilla extract
• Juice, if desired
• Imagination

Instructions

1. You can drink rooibos tea in the traditional way by putting the tea bag in some hot water. Or, you can have some fun with it. You can find rooibos in a variety of flavors but sometimes I would rather purchase the plain tea bags so I can jazz it up a bit. Place a drop or two of your favorite extract into the mug--orange, vanilla and butterscotch are some of my favorites.

   I also like to use rooibos as a basis for an herbal punch. I brew up some of the tea in the traditional way and then pour it into a big pitcher after it cools down. From there I can add other ingredients such as ginger beer, flavored syrups and juices. Use your imagination to make something creative.

2. Rooibos tea is rich in antioxidants. It is also very mild and can be taken every day, or whenever you feel the need for an extra nutrition boost. Here is a short list of some of the things that are in rooibos:

   Antioxidants
   Alpha Hydroxy Acids
   Calcium
   Fluoride
   Copper
   Iron
   Potassium
   Zinc
   Manganese
   Potassium

   Even though it contains these minerals, it is still a good idea to remember to eat properly and take a multivitamin.

3. Use rooibos for health problems. The fact that rooibos contains certain minerals and antioxidants automatically makes it good for the body. But, the herb also has other qualities. For example, it is a plant that is a known antispasmodic. This means that it can help with cramping and to take care of any spasms, especially in the digestive track.

   Here is a list of some of the medicinal uses for rooibos:

   Tooth decay (high fluoride content)
   Cramps
   Digestive distress and cramping
   Astringent (because of the tannins)
   Diarrhea (because of the tannins)
   Vomiting
   Aging (because of the antioxidants)
   Allergies and Hay Fever
   High Cholesterol
   Calms skin allergies and other skin complaints such as eczema (brew the tea and apply it to the area with a cotton ball)
   Asthma
   Ulcers
   Constipation
   Heartburn
   Helps build strong bones

   If you drink one to three cups a day, it can help increase your overall state of health. If you need to use it for any of the health problems listed, drink a cup as needed.

   Remember to see a doctor if you have any of those complaints so they can confirm they aren't serious or life threatening.

Tips & Warnings

• Who says medicine has to be boring? Look for rooibos tea in flavors such as caramel and vanilla.

• This tea is safe to drink every day, but it is still a good idea to let your doctor know you've been drinking it, just in case.

• Make sure you aren't allergic to rooibos.

• Consult with a doctor just to make sure rooibos is safe for you.

Resources

• Aspalathus linearis