Rooibos (pronounced "roy-boss") is only grown in a small area in the Cederberg region of the Western Cape province. The leaves are oxidized or fermented to produce the distinctive reddish-brown color. The flavor is sweet and slightly nutty. Preparation of Rooibos tea is essentially the same as black tea save that the flavor is improved by longer brewing. The resulting brew is a reddish brown color, perhaps explaining why Rooibos is sometimes referred to as "red tea."

Origin: South Africa
Botanical Name: Aspalathul linearis

Rooibos is becoming more popular in Western countries particularly among health-conscious consumers, due to its high level of antioxidants such as aspalathin and nothofagin, its lack of caffeine, and its low tannin levels compared to fully oxidized black tea or unoxidized green tea leaves.

It helps to maintain blood sugar levels (already within the normal range) as well as supporting healthy cardiovascular function. It has also been known to promote a relaxed feeling and balance common, daily mood fluctuations. Rooibos contains magnesium, zinc and iron which all assist in maintaining a healthy nervous system. Zinc and iron, in particular, support natural systemic balance in the brain, promoting standard consistency and normal functioning of the nervous system. Rooibos has strong calmative properties and is known in folk medicine to help soothe and rejuvenate common fatigue and everyday irritability. Rooibos may also be used as part of your diet to support a healthy immune system. Rooibos provides support for healthy liver function, thereby facilitating toxin removal and maintaining overall organ efficiency.

20 tea bags