I love Rooibos tea for all the health benefits, but I’m not a huge fan of the flavour. I’ve successfully added a bit of hibiscus tea leaves to add a bit of floral and fruity notes but I was thrilled when I found out they are actually making a green version of the rooibos tea often called green bosch tea.
I especially love the mild flavour and that there is no caffeine in this herbal tea. When I want to kick in with just a little caffeine, I’ll blend in a touch of the pu-erh tea to pack a healing punch.
Green rooibos tea is a variation of the traditional rooibos tea that undergoes a slightly different production process. Unlike traditional rooibos tea, which is oxidized and fermented, green rooibos tea is minimally processed to preserve its natural green color and delicate flavor. Here’s an overview of how green rooibos tea is made:
- Harvesting: The leaves and stems of the rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) plant are hand-picked or machine-harvested.
- Withering: The harvested rooibos is spread out and exposed to the air to wither. This step allows the moisture in the leaves to evaporate slightly.
- Heat treatment: Instead of being fermented, green rooibos undergoes a process of heat treatment, typically through steaming or a brief period of gentle heating. This step prevents oxidation and preserves the natural green color and taste.
- Drying: The heat-treated rooibos leaves are dried to remove any remaining moisture, ensuring proper storage and packaging.
Now let’s explore some potential health benefits of green rooibos tea:
- Rich in antioxidants: Green rooibos tea, like traditional rooibos tea, contains a range of antioxidants, such as aspalathin and quercetin. These antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body and may contribute to overall well-being.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Some studies suggest that the polyphenols in green rooibos tea have anti-inflammatory effects. Regular consumption of green rooibos may potentially help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Supports digestive health: Green rooibos tea is often consumed to soothe and support digestive health. It may help alleviate indigestion, stomach cramps, and other gastrointestinal discomforts.
- Hydration: Green rooibos tea is caffeine-free and can be a refreshing and hydrating alternative to other beverages. Staying properly hydrated is essential for overall health and well-being.
- Potential skin benefits: Due to its antioxidant content, green rooibos tea may have positive effects on the skin. It is believed to help maintain healthy skin and may be used topically as a natural remedy for certain skin conditions.
- Calming properties: Green rooibos tea is often consumed for its soothing and relaxing properties. It does not contain caffeine and is low in tannins, making it a suitable option for those seeking a caffeine-free and calming beverage.
As with any herbal tea or dietary supplement, individual experiences and reactions may vary. If you have any specific health concerns or are taking medications, it’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet.
Try it out for yourself, still a bit tough to find in most stores, I’d love to hear your thoughts.