Health Facts

Rooibos Science and Health

People have been talking and writing about the health benefits of Rooibos since the late 1960’s. This widespread anecdotal evidence and the presence of a blend of antioxidants in the product, whet the research appetites of several scientists in South Africa and around the world. They are testing and analysing Rooibos intensively to evaluate the potential health properties and to study the complex mix of active ingredients in Rooibos. The active ingredients in Rooibos are polyphenolic compounds. Polyphenols are characteristic chemical structures produced by plants.

A convincing body of evidence confirming the potential health properties of Rooibos has been built up, mostly based on in vitro work (in test tubes) and in vivo work (with live animals). Many articles on the properties and health benefits of Rooibos have been published in the South African and international scientific literature, including several research articles in high-impact, peer-reviewed scientific journals. [link to Research References]

The next step is to confirm that the same health benefits can be proven in the human body. A research team at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, led by Dr Jeanine Marnewick, is now taking on the challenge of the first ever clinical Rooibos studies in adults who are at risk for developing heart disease.

Rooibos Antioxidants

• Rooibos contains a complex and abundant blend of antioxidants.
• Rooibos is the only known source of a specifically beneficial and rare antioxidant called aspalathin.
• Unfermented (green) Rooibos has higher levels of antioxidants than traditional, fermented Rooibos.
• The antioxidants in Rooibos are potent enough to measurably elevate the antioxidant levels in blood, thereby boosting the body’s internal defence systems against disease. The effect peaks about one hour after drinking 500 ml Rooibos.
• The antioxidant content of Rooibos also depends on the soil conditions of the region where the plant was grown, and on how the infusion was prepared, i.e. ratio of leaves to water, temperature of the water, extraction time, stirring, etcetera.

How Rooibos May Help to Prevent Cancer, Heart Disease and Other Chronic Disorders

• The complex mixture of polyphenols in Rooibos may help protect against free radicals. (Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage the DNA in cells, leading to cancer.)
• These free radicals can also oxidise cholesterol, leading to clogged blood vessels, heart attack and stroke. The antioxidants in Rooibos can neutralise these free radicals and help to limit their impact.
• Rooibos increases the antioxidant status of rat’s livers. This could result in Rooibos being used in the treatment of chronic liver disease. Based on recent research done in the Slovak Republic, this research team recommend Rooibos for people with chronic liver problems.
• Rooibos protects the brains of aged rats against oxidative damage. This could play a role in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
• Many of these findings require more research before specific recommendations about the use of Rooibos can be made, and therefore several research groups around the world are currently working on Rooibos. [also see Ongoing  Research ]

How Rooibos May Help to Prevent Cancer

• Rooibos may prevent the healthy cell from undergoing mutagenesis (by binding free radicals, increasing the antioxidant capacity of the liver and helping the liver to cope with carcinogens).
• Rooibos may prevent a cell with damaged DNA from becoming a cancerous cell.
• Rooibos may prevent cancerous cells from multiplying and forming a cancerous tumour.

Some of the Rooibos research at South Africa’s Medical Research Council focuses on how Rooibos inhibits the development of cancer cells.

Rooibos is an Promising Ally in Diabetes Prevention

Research shows that Rooibos exhibits promising anti-diabetic properties. Some of the highlights include:

Antioxidant power:

A study published in the journal Phytomedicine demonstrated that the antioxidants in Rooibos significantly reduce oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is closely linked to insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes.

Blood sugar regulation:

Researchers from Stellenbosch University found that aspalathin – an antioxidant found in Rooibos - improves glucose uptake and insulin secretion. This dual action helps stabilise blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of hyperglycaemia otherwise known as high blood sugar.

Anti-inflammatory effects:

Chronic inflammation can contribute to insulin resistance. A study in Molecular Nutrition & Food Research highlighted the anti-inflammatory properties of Rooibos, which may reduce the impact of inflammation on the development of insulin resistance.

Animal studies:

Diabetic rats treated with Rooibos extract showed improved glucose tolerance and lowered blood glucose levels, as documented in a study from the University of Pretoria.

While these findings must be further tested through human studies, initial findings are encouraging. Regular consumption of Rooibos could complement conventional diabetes treatments, offering a natural and enjoyable way to support blood sugar control. As research progresses, Rooibos may become a staple in diabetes management strategies.

A Natural Stress Reliever

Research highlights several ways Rooibos can help mitigate stress.

Studies at Stellenbosch University have found that Rooibos contains powerful antioxidants, such as aspalathin and nothofagin, which play a significant role in reducing stress. These compounds combat oxidative stress by neutralising free radicals in the body, thereby protecting cells from damage.

One particular study demonstrated that Rooibos could lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. High cortisol levels are linked to numerous health problems, including anxiety, depression and immune dysfunction. By lowering cortisol, Rooibos helps to promote a sense of calm and well-being.

Further research at Stellenbosch University explored the anti-inflammatory properties of Rooibos. Chronic inflammation is often a physical response to stress, contributing to various mental and physical health issues. Rooibos’ ability to reduce inflammation helps alleviate stress-related symptoms and improve overall health.

Additionally, Rooibos has been shown to enhance mood and cognitive function. The flavonoids in Rooibos can influence neurotransmitters in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

With its unique blend of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, Rooibos offers a natural and effective way to reduce stress.

More Rooibos Health Benefits

• Rooibos is naturally caffeine-free (no decaffeination required).
• Rooibos is low in tannin.
• No negative effects of Rooibos have ever been recorded.
• Many people report that Rooibos relieves allergies, sleep disorders, digestive problems and headaches. However, these claims are not yet supported by scientific research.
• Many physicians (especially in South Africa) recommend Rooibos to soothe infant colic, but no formal studies have been done on this.
• Rooibos can be enjoyed by those who want to avoid the stimulating effects of caffeine, especially late at night. Because of its zero caffeine content, Rooibos is also suitable for babies (from six months) and infants, as well as for breast-feeding mothers.
• Rooibos is suitable as a fluid and electrolyte replacement for athletes.

“Rooibos and honeybush teas provide a natural, rich source of compounds beneficial to your health and people should see these herbal teas as part of a healthy, sensible lifestyle that could alleviate the risk of cancer, and reduce its possible extent.”

“While Rooibos is not a medicine, it is an affordable drink with potential health-promoting properties. Research is ongoing to find all the answers about this unique South African product.”