| ROOIBOS & HONEYBUSH The Perfect Tea The beautiful Cedarberg area in the Cape of South Africa, is home to one of the most unique and valuable additions to the world of tea. The Aspalathus Linearis plant is known as ‘Rooibos’. Literally translated from Afrikaans, it means ‘Red Bush.’ Rooibos tea is rich in antioxidants, boasting at least twice the amount of that in green tea (some say as much fifteen). It is naturally caffeine-free and is currently being touted, with good reason, as a miracle elixir by tea connoisseurs and health enthusiasts. Africans have long enjoyed the health benefits of this special tea. The leaves are even used as a poultice for skin irritations and it is the main ingredient for soothing soaps and skin lotions. Rooibos has been credited with lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, aiding digestion and relieving nausea. It is a proven remedy for insomnia and studies have shown that it also alleviates allergy-related symptoms. Rooibos contains Aspalathin, a flavonoid found in medicinal herbs that are used to treat skin disorders and circulatory disorders. Flavanoids found in Rooibos may also have anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties. Japanese research on Oligosaccharides found in Rooibos concludes that these compounds may aid one’s immune system to fight viral infections, possibly even HIV. This tea is naturally sweet and delicious and is available either in its natural state or as a flavored blend. If you already love Rooibos, try its “cousin”: Honeybush! Honeybush is considered “the other red tea” and is made from the flowers of Cyclopia Intermedia. It shares many of the healing properties of Rooibos and, in addition, has long been used as a natural remedy for Diabetes. Both teas are considered herbal as they are naturally caffeine-free. Rooibos and Honeybush may be served hot with sugar and milk, alone or with honey and lemon. Both also make delicious iced teas and are versatile main ingredients for creative chai or other delicious gourmet tea drinks. However you choose to enjoy them, Rooibos and Honeybush teas are delicious and good for you too! PROTEA COTTAGE offers a wide selection of Rooibos and Honeybush. Both are available in their plain organic form in teabags or in loose leaf. Flavored Rooibos varieties offered in teabags are: Vanilla, Raspberry and Macadamia Nut. Loose-leaf Rooibos flavors include the delicious Provence, Crème au Caramel, Georgia Peach and Bora Bora Mango. Honeybush and Rooibos mixes form the basis of our loose-leaf Stress-Busting Chai and our Cape Nectar teabags. Visit us at Gardner Village or on the web at proteacottage.com. Phone: (801) 938-1980 |
