Rooibos herb  (Aspalathus linearis)

Rooibos tea originates from the leaves and stems of the indigenous South African plant Aspalathus linearis. Rooibos tea is also known as Red-Bush and grows on high mountain ranges. Rooibos has gained much attention for clinical purposes in the case of nervous tension, allergies (dermatitis), and various digestive problems. Recently, antioxidative activity was also attributed to the tea on the basis of its flavonoid content. For a natural sugar alternative, see stevia benefit information. For more rooibos information.

Medicinal uses of rooibos tea
In Japan, rooibos and guava teas are widely consumed as herbal beverages, especially as a therapy against pollen allergy. Rooibos tea is commonly used for hyperactive gastrointestinal, respiratory and cardiovascular disorders.

Rooibos tea or herb for bronchodilation
The bronchodilator, antispasmodic and blood pressure lowering effects of rooibos tea are mediated predominantly through K(ATP) channel activation. Rooibos tea has therapeutic potential for congestive respiratory ailments.

Rooibos tea for gastrointestinal conditions
Rooibos tea possesses a combination of dominant K(ATP) channel activation and weak calcium antagonist mechanisms and hence may be helpful in hyperactive gastrointestinal disorders.


Constituents of Rooibos
The main flavonoids in rooibos are dihydrochalcone aspalthin, rutin, and orientin.

What does the research say about Rooibos?
Rooibos tea is a powerful antioxidant, has anti-HIV activity, and additionally has anti-tumor potential. Rooibos tea administration prevents age-related accumulation of lipid peroxides in several regions of rat brain.

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