What is Rooibos? 5 Things You Need to Know About This Tea That Isn't Tea
Rooibos is often confused with red tea. It is theine-free and is consumed in the form of herbal tea. It is the national drink of South Africa where it is drunk in large quantities due to its various virtues and properties. To find out everything about the subject, we have listed 5 facts you need to know about Rooibos. So, what is Rooibos?
5 Things to Know About Rooibos
We’re all familiar with classic Tea Time staples like green tea, black tea, and white tea. But what about Rooibos, a beverage that has been appearing more frequently in cafes and tea rooms in recent years?
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1. Rooibos is Not a Red Tea
What is Rooibos? Rooibos means “red bush” in Afrikaans. It is a shrub that predominantly grows in South Africa.
In Western countries, Rooibos is often confused with red tea. However, unlike traditional tea, Rooibos does not contain caffeine. Rooibos infusions do not include tea leaves, and it lacks tannins, which are responsible for the stimulating effects of tea.
Therefore, Rooibos can be enjoyed at any time of the day by everyone, including children and pregnant women.
2. A South African Beverage
Let’s dive into the history and origins of Rooibos.
Rooibos began to be commercialized and exported globally in the late 20th century. Prior to that, it was primarily consumed in South Africa, where the red bush grows. The Rooibos shrub thrives in a dry and hot climate and is commonly found in the Cederberg Mountains in the Western Cape province of South Africa.
Rooibos is a local pride in this African country. It is cherished for its sweet and fruity taste and its caffeine-free nature.
3. Different Varieties of Rooibos
Just like tea, there are different varieties of Rooibos.
The Oldest Variety: Red Rooibos Red Rooibos has been consumed for centuries in South Africa. It is loved by both adults and children for its sweeter and fruitier flavor. Red Rooibos is a highly fermented drink, giving it a color similar to black tea, and making it suitable for pregnant women.
The Rarest Variety: Green Rooibos Green Rooibos, on the other hand, is an unfermented beverage. The leaves are sun-dried and chopped. It is milder and less bitter. While it has similar health benefits to Red Rooibos, it offers different properties due to its higher antioxidant content.
4. Health Benefits of Rooibos
Rooibos is a healthy drink known for its health benefits. In South Africa, it has traditionally been consumed to aid digestion and promote good sleep. It is also recognized for its potential in alleviating allergies and fighting cancer. Rooibos is beneficial against aging and eczema, thanks to its antioxidant molecules.
5. Enjoy Rooibos in Various Forms
Rooibos will continue to surprise you. While it’s commonly enjoyed as a hot infusion, it’s equally delightful as iced tea. Iced Rooibos is especially refreshing in summer. At Tea Heritage, we love making Blood Orange Rooibos iced teas during the summer. If you enjoy it as a refreshing drink, you’ll also love Rooibos cocktails. This herbal tea allows for a variety of delicious beverages. And speaking of deliciousness, have you tried our Rooibos des Reines?
That’s not all! Both Red and Green Rooibos can also enhance your baking recipes: Rooibos shortbread cookies, Rooibos madeleines, Rooibos muffins, and more.